ᐅ Freestanding refrigerator and freezer combination experiences

Hi everyone,

A few weeks ago, I actually bought the Haier HDPW5620ANPD refrigerator for 870 Euros (including delivery) on sale, but it is not yet available. Basically, I’m waiting for the shop’s stock to be replenished. Is it worth canceling the Haier fridge and instead going for the Samsung Bespoke RB38A7B6AB1/EF for 964.44 Euros (including delivery, price via Corporate Benefits) because of the current Samsung holiday offers? Can anyone assess this or share their thoughts? I’m torn... Or does anyone have another recommendation or alternative in the price range of around 1,000 Euros?

What are the general opinions on Samsung or Haier models in this category?

Thanks and best regards!

We have a side-by-side fridge freezer combination with black glass doors, freestanding. It was purchased in 2017, so about 6 years ago.

So far, no problems, and it is a no-name product. The price back then was around 650 euros. I am very satisfied with it, especially because it looks very attractive. The fridge is large, while the freezer compartment is narrower.

The height fits very well, allowing me to install a flat-screen TV above it. The proportions are also excellent, so it doesn’t look bulky like many other refrigerators of this type.

Side-by-side refrigerators have the major drawback that their oversized freezer compartment causes electricity consumption to skyrocket. A typical side-by-side uses about 400 kWh per year according to standard measurements, whereas a standard refrigerator, 200 cm (79 inches) tall and 60 cm (24 inches) wide, consumes just a bit over 100 kWh.

However, I would recommend looking for a model that is 70 cm (28 inches) wide. It may be hard to believe, but those extra 10 cm (4 inches) make the refrigerator significantly larger without noticeably increasing energy consumption.

In the end, most people end up buying a small second fridge for the utility room anyway to store items they rarely need. No one really needs a side-by-side.

schnuffibayern schrieb:

What is the general opinion on Samsung or Haier models in this category?

I had a Bosch appliance and was very satisfied. Samsung and Haier are, as far as I know, decent units. Considering the prices, you can expect solid equipment.
My focus would be more on the interior layout or the size of the compartments. The freezer section is often extremely small with many brands.
In the end, it’s just a built-in refrigerator with an attractive exterior panel on the outside.

xMisterDx schrieb:

In the end, you usually end up buying a small second fridge for the utility room anyway for the stuff you rarely use. No one really needs a side-by-side.

Great point! No one really needs a side-by-side (even though they are very spacious, even if the original poster just needs a standard unit), but having two refrigerators is a common solution. Sure, two fridges or a fridge plus a freezer is not the most energy-efficient option.

I think you don’t quite understand the purpose of a side-by-side.
The side-by-side is THE family fridge, replacing both a large refrigerator and a freezer chest. And of course, it consumes significantly more electricity than a “normal” fridge. But essentially, it’s two appliances in one, using about the same energy as two separate units placed next to each other.
For families with more than two adults, you basically can’t avoid having a separate freezer, especially for the ice compartment. The fridge must offer plenty of space—there’s no way you can shop often enough (says someone with three kids).

P.S. Tip: Just don’t buy a lot of stockpiled food that requires a second small fridge. Then one unit will be enough.

jens.knoedel schrieb:

Great statement! Nobody needs a side-by-side fridge.

Not worth it! Its status is what you would call a navel—if it doesn’t have one, no one else needs it either.

@schnuffibayern
You must have a reason for choosing a model with those specific dimensions. But in the end, fridge-freezer combos in the same price range and production year are all pretty similar. Look for the feature that convinces you, choose that, and be happy.
Your purchase contract should be secure anyway if it is already a few weeks old, right?

If the kitchen is not separated, pay attention to operating noise.
The Samsung at my dad’s place is very annoying when the compressor kicks in. No idea which model, large side-by-side, 5 years old.
Best regards, Stefan