8 questions to ask when buying a new refrigerator.
1. Do you need a freestanding or built-in refrigerator?
2. A fridge freezer, side-by-side refrigerator, just a fridge: which type of appliance suits you best?
3. Which refrigerator size fits your kitchen?
4. Which finishes and trends reflect my tastes?
5. How important is an energy efficient fridge?
6. How do you want to clean and defrost?
7. Which fridge storage solutions suit your groceries?
You might also be interested to find out:
Which fridge should I buy? Try the Fridge Finder.
What to know when buying a fridge? The first fork in the road is choosing between a freestanding and a built-in fridge. Which refrigerator size? Unless you're putting in a new kitchen, look at your current fridge to determine the type and size. Keep food fresher for longer thanks to VitaFresh. Opt for a NoFrost freezer and say goodbye to the hassle of defrosting the freezer.
Below you'll find our refrigerator buying guide. It provides a clear overview of all key information you need to make a well-informed decision. When you feel ready to choose a fridge or if you need help narrowing down your choices, turn to the Fridge Finder anytime.
1. Do you need a freestanding or built-in refrigerator?
The first decision to make when buying a new refrigerator: do you need a freestanding fridge or a built-in fridge? Each has its advantages:
Freestanding fridge for greater flexibility.
A freestanding fridge is separate from the rest of your kitchen, meaning it's not integrated or built in to a cabinet. This gives you the flexibility to take the appliance with you to a new home. A range of exterior finishes to choose from lets you match other kitchen appliances or set a certain visual accent.
Built-in fridge for a seamless look.
On a built-in fridge also known as an integrated fridge, the door's exterior is unfinished upon delivery. When installed in your kitchen, a panel matching your kitchen cabinets covers it, creating a seamless look.
2. A fridge freezer, side-by-side refrigerator, just a fridge: which type of appliance suits you best?
Have you always dreamed of a side-by-side refrigerator with plenty of space to store fresh and frozen food? Or maybe practicality tops your list and you want a new high-quality fridge freezer to replace one after a long service life. Take a moment to weigh your options:
Fridge freezer
Keeps food either chilled or frozen. Comes in a wide variety of sizes and dimensions – available as freestanding and built-in, also known as integrated.
Our best fridge freezer
Side-by-side fridge freezers
An eye-catching, freestanding kitchen centrepiece with plenty of storage space.
Our best side-by-side refrigerator
3. Which refrigerator size fits your kitchen?
Refrigerator sizes, refrigerator dimensions: knowing the available fridge sizes as well as the fridge dimensions required for your kitchen is crucial to selecting a new fridge. This is especially true if you have an appliance niche to fill or are replacing a built-in fridge.
To select the right fridge size:
- Properly measure the height, width and depth of your niche and choose a fridge accordingly.
- Replacing a built-in fridge? Refer to the refrigerator dimensions of your current fridge.
Another aspect to consider is the width. Here's some general guidance:
Standard fridge size is 60 cm wide Suits small households of 1-2 people. |
An XL fridge is 70 cm or wider For homes with 3 to 4 people. |
A double door fridge is over 90 cm wide Great for big families or those who like to entertain. |
4. Which finishes and trends reflect my tastes?
Placed at the heart of your kitchen, you'll be using, and looking, at your fridge for years to come. That's why it's worth selecting one that truly suits your preferences. Here is some inspiration:
A trendy side-by-side refrigerator: Gain food storage space without compromising on design. A side-by-side fridge, also called an American style fridge, is always a great choice for families.
Wine time: Your favourite bottles are best kept at the perfect temperature in a wine cooler. Ready to uncork anytime! Discover our wine fridge.
5. How important is an energy efficient fridge?
How much energy does a fridge use? Your fridge accounts for up to 20 per cent of your total home electricity consumption. All the more reason to select an energy-efficient fridge.
In March 2021, a new simplified energy label was introduced in the European Union. The rescaled energy ratings now range from A (most energy efficient) to G (least energy efficient), helping you to compare the energy consumption of home appliances such as refrigerators.
Example: A fridge with a C rating under the new label corresponds to a A+++ rating under the old label.
Choosing an energy efficient fridge significantly cuts your energy costs and decrease your carbon footprint.
6. How do you want to clean and defrost?
It’s important to choose a fridge that's easy to clean. Look for models with removable drawers and glass shelves. Also, some fridges are engineered to keep the fridge's interior smelling fresh.
When it comes to defrosting, many fridge-freezers these days are equipped with convenient NoFrost technology. It reliably stops ice from forming, so you never have to defrost the freezer again. This saves you time and hassle.
7. Which fridge storage solutions suit your groceries?
Think about a typical trip to the grocery store. What perishables do you usually buy? The items in your bag influence the interior layout, shelves and VitaFresh drawers you'll want in a fridge.
Fruits and vegetables: Opt for a large produce storage compartment to keep your favourites fresher for longer.
Frozen foods: A fridge-freezer with a large freezer capacity is a must.
Beverages: Opt for a beverage rack, available as an accessory.
What are the most reliable refrigerator brands?
Although the best refrigerator for you depends on your personal preferences and needs, you can always count on our high-quality fridges and freezers. Numerous accolades from independent test institutes are testament to their outstanding reliability and performance. Which is the best refrigerator brand? For us the answer is clear. You can be confident that a Bosch refrigerator will run well day after day, year after year.
How long should a refrigerator last?
How long does a refrigerator last? In general, the lifespan of a fridge is around 10 years. In particular, our high quality fridges with German engineering are designed to serve you for at least that long or even longer. We check all appliances that leave our factories to ensure they meet our high quality standard. Every Bosch fridge also comes with a 2-year manufacturer warranty.
Where is the best place to buy a refrigerator ?
Use the online dealer finder to locate where to buy a Bosch fridge in your area. At your visit you can see the products in real life, get personalised advice, make your purchase and more.