Picking the Right Freezer Type
There are a wide variety of freezer styles and types on the market. Do you need a tall model that gives a lot of room without taking up much floor space, or an undercounter version you can slide under your worktops? Is white OK, or would you like a more unusual colour?
We outline all the options in this guide.
For more information on the dimensions and capacities of different types of freezer, please see below.
Undercounter Freezers
Undercounter models are one of the most common types of freezer available.
These are designed to slide comfortably under kitchen surfaces. Of course you don’t have to locate yours under one – pop it in the utility room to save space in the kitchen.
Undercounter freezers tend to be smaller than other models, but usually come equipped with drawers or shelves, letting you pack food in but still keep everything organised.
Tall Freezers
Tall freezer are, you guessed it, tall. They are similar to undercounter models but around double the height, with double the storage space.
Being bigger means they take up a lot more space than undercounter models, but the footprint on the floor is the same. If you’re not intending to put the freezer underneath a worktop and there are no cabinets or other obstructions in the way, a tall model is a good option.
Tall models are perfect for larger households who want to keep the freezer in the kitchen.
Tall models are perfect for larger households who want to keep the freezer in the kitchen.
Chest Freezers
Chest freezers don’t have drawers or compartments, so they offer loads of room for the size of the appliance. Pack in all your tasty goodies with room to spare.
They are available in a range of sizes, so you can find the perfect model to suit your needs. Normally there’s one large cavity with baskets at the top so you can grab all your favourites quickly and easily.
For added safety, pick a model with a counterbalanced lid, since they won’t close while you’re rummaging around inside. Remember that as these models open at the top, they can’t be put underneath a worktop and require a fair amount of space.
As chest freezers offer so much space they can be a fantastic backup appliance, supporting a smaller kitchen freezer. If you purchase one that can operate in low temperatures, you can keep it in your garage or shed (provided it’s dry).
Integrated/Built-In and Freestanding Freezers
If you like your appliances to go unnoticed, try installing an integrated (or ‘built-in’) freezer.
These models let you attach a cabinet door to the front to perfectly match the room.
In terms of size and layout, most integrated freezers are undercounter models, although some tall built-in freezers are also available.
Freezers that aren’t built-in are known as freestanding models. This term includes tall, undercounter and chest designs that can be moved around easily and don’t have a cupboard door attached to the front.
Freezers that aren’t built-in are known as freestanding models. This term includes tall, undercounter and chest designs.
Mini Freezers
If you don’t tend to have much frozen produce in your home and just keep the bare essentials, a mini freezer might be just what you need.
These handy little appliances can sit on your worktop, so you don’t have to do any bending down.
Styles
White goods don’t have to be white – freezers come in a range of colours and finishes.
Take your pick from classic white, stylish grey or contemporary black. You’ll also find premium stainless steel finishes, as well as metallic effects, retro pastel shades and more.
Some colours are very unusual or only available from one particular manufacturer, so it is usually easiest to go with a white or grey model.
