Although the freezer is one of the household appliances which uses the most electricity, due to being left on around the clock, it’s also one of the most invaluable appliances. As such, when it comes to purchasing a freezer, it’s important to make sure you’re selecting one which not only meets your needs and requirements, but is also energy efficient.

To give you a helping hand, we’ve compiled the following guide.

Model:

Whilst there’s a range of freezers available, the three most common models are:

1. Fridge-Freezers – if you’re struggling for space in your home, a fridge-freezer could be the ideal solution. The freezer space available varies, from a small shelf at the top making it ideal for single occupancy homes, through to the space being split evenly with the fridge, making them ideal for families.
2. Chest Freezers – generally these take up more floor space than other freezer models, whilst the door is also placed at the top, preventing them from being installed under work surfaces. However, their generous size makes them ideal for large families.

3. Upright Freezers – similar in design to fridges, upright freezers are perfect for those who require more freezer space than offered by a fridge-freezer, but not as much space offered by a chest freezer.

Energy Rating:

Each household appliance comes with an EU energy rating guide. The guide compares the energy consumption of an appliance with its internal volume, to provide an indication of how efficient the selected appliance is for its size.

Previously, appliances would be graded A to G, and although such grading is available on appliances of a certain age, since the summer of 2012, the EU energy ratings have changed to grade appliances from A+ upwards. The higher the grade the more energy efficient the appliance is.

Freezer Features:

When selecting a freezer, whilst the model, energy rating and climate class play an important role, it’s also important to consider the features offered by the appliance.  Such features include:

Lights:

On some freezers you’ll see three lights on the front. What the light means will vary depending on the colour.

For example, the green light on your freezer indicates the appliance is working correctly and at the correct temperature, whilst the orange light if illuminated suggests the fast freeze option has been selected.

If selecting the fast-freezer option, we recommend doing so a day before you plan to stock up the freezer, as this gives the appliance the time to reach the required temperature to be able to cope with an increase in “warm” food.

The final light you’ll see on the front of your appliance, if it has lights, is a red light. If this is continuously lit, it suggests there’s a fault somewhere, preventing it from reaching the required temperature.

Should the red light be illuminated, we recommend you firstly check the door is shut properly and the seal is free from damage. Should both the door and freezer door seal be ok, check the thermostat is set to the correct setting and there’s not too much of a frost build up. If any of these faults have been spotted, you’ll find how to fix them within our advice centre.

Frost-Free:

Although this isn’t standard on all models, it is worth looking out for as it enables fast-freezing in all compartments, without the need for defrosting. Such a feature reduces ice-crystals forming in food as it freezes.

Storage Space:

When it comes to selecting a freezer, it’s important to make sure you select one which comes with enough storage space for your needs and requirements. The space available will vary from freezer to freezer, whilst some models will also come with a large drawer which enables you to freeze unusual shaped objects.

It’s also recommended to select a freezer which comes with clear drawers, as this will allow you to see what is being frozen, limiting the amount of time the door needs to be open when it comes to taking food out of the appliance.

Taking each of these considerations into place will ensure you’re selecting the perfect freezer for your needs and requirements. But in the unfortunate situation your freezer gains a fault, you’ll find easy-to-follow advice and guidance on how to repair it rather than replace it, on our YouTube channel and in our advice centre.

Tags: freezer door seal, freezer spare parts