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Originally Posted by Chris T
So, I'm after recommendations.
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I've just had a quick peruse on the Which? Online site and here's some info:
1) Especially on the American style ones, treat the "capacity" figure with a large degree of scepticism. The actual usable space may be a *lot* less than the claimed total volume.
2) Two thermostats are better than one because you can control the temperature of each section independantly, also this allows you to switch one side off eg you can stick everything in the fridge side when you're defrosting the freezer (just *don't* use screwdrivers...!
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3) Depending on where you're putting it, check the "climate class":
The two you're most likely to come across in the UK are N class and SN class. Both work effectively in room temperatures up to 32°C.
N models shouldnââ‚à ‚¬Ã¢â€žÂ¢t be used in rooms that become colder than 16°C.
SN models shouldnââ‚à ‚¬Ã¢â€žÂ¢t be used at room temperatures below 10°C.
Other classes that you might come across are ST and T. ST models work best at between 18°C and 38°C, and T models between 18°C and 43°C.
Here's what they say about "Side by side" freezers:
All the side-by-side models weâ₠¬ÃƒÂ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚¢ve tested are pretty good, but our three Best Buys are really impressive.
For lots of grocery space at a reasonable price, try the Samsung RSZI FCNS, £849 from Currys. Its effective insulation helps keep temperatures inside low and itâ₠¬ÃƒÂ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚¢s one of the quietest fridge-freezers around. An ingenious mini-bar cooler box allows you to cool and remove bottles without opening the door.
For a bit more money, you can buy the best side-by-side model weâ₠¬ÃƒÂ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚¢ve tested, the Whirlpool S20D RBB 32 - A/G. It freezes fresh food quickly to keep groceries in mint condition for longer. The electronic control panel gives you complete control over temperatures and features such as the ice maker. Itâ₠¬ÃƒÂ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚¢s around £900 at Powerhouse.
The GE PCG 21 MMFFWW is the best for cooling down food and drink in the fridge quickly. It has lots of short-term freezer compartments for pre-frozen groceries such as ice cream, but this means it has fewer four-star compartments, which freeze fresh food and keep it for longer. Itâ₠¬ÃƒÂ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚¢s not widely available on high street but itâ₠¬ÃƒÂ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚¢s around £1,500 online.
Hope this helps.