Freezers: How to buy
A+ or A++ rated freezers are cheaper to run
Freezers aren’t the most feature-laden of appliances but you’ll still need to consider your selection wisely.
Save energy, save money
When buying a new freezer its well worth opting for an A+ or A++ rated model; they’re more energy efficient so they cost less to run. That said, energy labels are a good guide but they’re not always completely accurate so check out our test results.
Size matters
There are more worktop-height freezers in the shops to choose from than chest, built-in or tall models, but the design of your kitchen and size of your household are likely to dictate which type of freezer you buy.
Big chest freezers and tall models offer more storage space, but if you only have space for a worktop-height model it’s worth checking capacity. We’ve seen similar sized worktop height models that differ in capacity by around 15 litres; that’s enough space for seven boxes of potato waffles.
Chest freezers usually stand alone in terms of their design, but if you want to coordinate your appliances you can get fridges to match some tall, built-in and worktop-height models.
Opaque drawers, a fast freeze button and audible high temperature warning alerts are all useful features to look out for. See our Features Explained page for more information.
Climate class
This relates to the room temperature the manufacturer claims the freezers is capable of working effectively in.
SN classified freezers are suitable for use in rooms at 10°C but this may not be low enough for an unheated garage in winter.
Manufacturers don’t state whether freezers are usable below 10°C but we’ve tried some chest and worktop height models in rooms of -10°C and they coped - that’s not to say that all chest and worktop-height freezers will work in a garage though.
Extras
A fast freeze feature can help retain fresh food’s nutrients and texture by bringing food temperature down more quickly – a switch or button is preferable to turning the main freezer setting dial.
You’ll probably need to switch the fast freeze on before your shopping trip so check your appliance instructions for guidance on using this feature.
A thermometer is always handy to ensure your freezer isn’t working harder than it needs to, especially if the temperature setting dial on the freezer is not marked in degrees. The internal freezer temperature shouldn't be lower than -18°C.