How to Choose the Smallest American Fridge Freezer
American fridge freezers can take up plenty of space, which is why it's crucial to measure your kitchen meticulously to ensure that one will fit. You don't want to have to leave a gap, or be at risk of hitting other white appliances and creating damage.
Some manufacturers offer slim American fridge freezers designed specifically for the UK market. They measure 70cm in width and have all the design, tech and storage capacity you'd like to.
Size
Pick one of our slim models if you have limited space and want to install an American fridge freezer that makes a statement. At less than 70cm wide, they're narrower than the standard freestanding appliance and provide more usable storage capacity too. They also look great pushed back into kitchen units for a streamlined feel.
American fridge freezers are bigger than their UK counterparts, so check measurements carefully to ensure that they fit. Be sure to examine the height of the models too. Some models can reach upwards of 180cm, which is too high for many homes. You can use our refrigerator sizes guide to assess different models against one another - or ask a sales representative in the store to assist.
You should also consider the energy rating for any American fridge-freezer that you're considering buying. The ratings are indicated by letters and range from A to A, with A being most efficient. Choose a model that has an energy rating 'E' or above to cut down on your costs for utilities. It is also advisable to look at the annual operating costs per kWh that are listed in the product's details. This can give you a precise image of what it will cost you to operate your new appliance.
Capacity
American fridge freezers are massive inside, giving you plenty of space to store your weekly shop. You should look for models that have up to 700 litres of space - this is plenty of space for most families. There's usually a separate freezer and an automatic dispenser, and digital displays let you track the energy usage of your home and make sure the door is shut correctly.
Choose a model with two cooling systems to keep the fridge and freezer at different temperatures. This prevents the dry, cold air out of the freezer from drying the food in the refrigerator and can help stop smells transferring. It could be up to 10% more efficient than single-zone appliances, and also reduce the annual cost of electricity.
Slimline American fridge freezers designed for smaller spaces are available if you're in a kitchen here with limited space. The Hisense RQ560N4WCF is a fantastic choice, featuring a low-energy rating of 'E' as well as an option for holiday mode to help to conserve energy even when the fridge isn't fully stocked. It's among the quietest-running American fridge freezers we've tested, and it's designed to fit in an existing cabinet making it ideal for kitchens with small or awkward shapes. Check your cupboards prior to buying any white goods to make sure that the fridge freezer is a good fit. Also, ensure that there is ventilation on the sides as well as the top and back.
Design
The beauty of a fridge freezer in the American style is that it can be either pushed back to fit into the kitchen cabinet for a more sleek appearance, or left freestanding as an accent piece. If you opt for a stand-alone design or one that's tucked in a cabinet, it's essential to measure the size of the space to ensure that your new appliance will fit. Also note the distance it is from the cooker so that you can estimate the amount of space needed for opening and shutting the doors. All refrigerators and freezers need a certain space around them to allow airflow.
This smaller version of full-size models, combines a fridge drawer with an upright one. This gives you easy access to your food items at eye level and also reduces energy consumption since you only open only one door at once and stops cold air from getting out. This is an excellent option for smaller households. It comes with a nonplumbed water dispenser to give you instant refreshment.
If you want to enjoy fresh-brewed coffee and crisp soda without ever leaving your home, this American-style refrigerator from Beko could be the perfect option. It's elegant and has plenty of storage space that allows 33 bags of food items. It comes with a non-plumbed instant drink ice maker, and no-frost technology that keeps your food fresh and frost-free.
Here are a few examples of
American fridge freezers provide many more features than storage for drinks and food - they can also have smart screens that can be used to plan shopping lists, recipes or inventory and can dispense chilled water and ice cubes as well. There are models with automatic ice makers that create a separate ice tray with crushed ice, or manual ones inside the freezer compartment. You simply add water and then turn a dial to release a cube.
You can choose between slim models, which measure approximately 70cm wide, and larger ones up to 90cm. Some models are taller too reaching 175cm, or 180cm excluding the feet. This is a must in the case of kitchens with low ceilings or if the space for the fridge-freezer is restricted to a closed area.
A lot of the models we have on our top small American fridge freezer list have no frost or frost-free making it easier to keep clean and tidy. This can save you time and money on defrosting, as well as helping to reduce your energy bills as well.
On our list of the top American fridge freezers, you will find several models with various features. You can make use of our filters to narrow your options by size, price, or retailer. You can also narrow your options by color, to get the most out of your kitchen's décor scheme.