Types of freezers by load type
There are two types of freezers: vertical and horizontal.
Upright freezer
A vertical freezer, or freezer cabinet, can be freestanding or built-in. This type of device is most suitable for a city apartment. Externally, a freezer is very similar to a regular refrigerator, its height can vary from 50 to 205 cm, width from 60 to 160 cm and depth from 48 to 80 cm. Some home freezers can be quite narrow, but this is rather an exception, than the rule. Typically, a vertical freezer is divided into compartments, each of which has a special drawer for storing food. Older models can only be equipped with shelves, however, this design has not earned popularity among housewives. Built-in freezers are no different from conventional freezers in terms of internal equipment. Their main feature is the ability to be installed inside furniture, which allows you to create a specific design for the kitchen space.
Freezer horizontal
A horizontal chamber, or chest freezer, is most often used for country houses because it takes up much more space. Most often, the height of such a freezer is 45 to 156 cm, but the width of the models can differ significantly, since the volume of the device varies from 100 to 500 liters. You can choose a horizontal freezer only if you have free space.
Freezers: characteristics, types, types
- No Frost. A system that prevents the formation of frost inside the freezer. A special fan provides forced air circulation, while moisture condenses into frost not in the working chamber, but in a special compartment. Periodically, the fan turns off, the frost melts, and the melt water flows into a special tray, from which it evaporates. This system eliminates the need for the user to periodically defrost the freezer to clear frost; on the other hand, it places special demands on food packaging, since in such freezers food dehydrates most quickly. — Inverter compressor. Unlike classic compressors, inverter compressors operate continuously, while the pump power varies depending on current needs. Thanks to this, freezers with compressors of this type are free of the main disadvantage - regular switching on / off, which negatively affects the durability, energy consumption and noise of the device. On the other hand, such units are quite expensive.
— Re-hanging the door. A function that allows the user to choose at his discretion which way the freezer door will open. This allows you to optimize the use of space in the room where the device is installed, which is especially important in cramped conditions.
— Automatic door closer. This device is responsible for “pulling” the door when closing, and in some models, also when opening. The idea is that the user does not need to close/open the door completely - just pull it to the desired place, and then the door will be “picked up” by the automatic closer and smoothly brought to a fully open or closed state. Such a system performs two functions. Firstly, it reduces to almost zero the risk of leaving the freezer not completely closed. Secondly, such a device ensures very smooth opening and closing, without shock, which has a positive effect on the service life of the entire device.
— Ice generator. A separate device for obtaining edible ice in the freezer. One of the advantages of such freezers is that the ice is produced and stored separately from other products and, thus, does not absorb extraneous odors.
— Quick freezing. Forced freezing mode, in which the temperature inside the freezer is briefly reduced down to -24 °C. This mode is intended in case you need to freeze a large number of products at the same time - without a sharp decrease in temperature, the heat from a large number of unfrozen products could lead to a critical (up to defrosting) increase in temperature. The fast freezing mode, as a rule, must be turned on in advance - 5 - 6 hours before loading the products - so that the freezer has time to reach the mode. In this case, it is necessary to take into account the increased load on the compressor - you cannot turn on quick freezing for a long time. Some models provide automatic shutdown of the fast freezing mode; in some, this must be done manually.
- Child protection. Child lock allows you to block the control of the freezer and/or access to its internal volumes. This function will be useful in families with small children - thus, the child will not be able to reach the freezer controls and change its operating mode, tip the freezer drawer over, etc.
— Telescopic guides. Retractable guides allow the drawer to roll smoothly on a special roller and “move out” of the freezer. The main advantage of “telescopes” is that you don’t need to put in much effort. On the other hand, such devices are more expensive and are used in premium segment devices.
— Backlight. Illumination system for the internal volume of the freezer. This function can be especially useful given the fact that the working chamber of the unit, even with the door open, is most often shaded, and it is not so easy to see its contents. The backlight, as a rule, works automatically - similar to how it is implemented in refrigerators: the light turns on when the door is opened and turns off when closed.
Main technical characteristics of freezers
Let's get down to business and look at the most important characteristics of freezers, knowledge of which can help you in the selection process.
Freezing class
The freezing class is indicated in freezers by asterisks “*”:
- «*» − means that the products will be stored at a temperature of - +6°C for one week;
- «**» − storage temperature −12° C. At this temperature, it is recommended to store perishable products for no more than 30 days;
- «***» − your products will be stored at −18° C, while proper protection is guaranteed for 90 days;
- «****» − longest freezing at temperatures below -18°C. Products can be stored for 6-12 months.
There are home refrigerators with different temperature ranges on each shelf. This device is extremely convenient because you can separate shelf-stable foods and those that you use for a shorter period. If you can pay a little more, choose a freezer with a quick freeze function. This is very convenient for instant cooling and storage of perishable foods.
Power
Freezer capacity refers to the mass of food in kg that the device can cool and freeze in one day. The average capacity of freezers is designed for 5-15 kg. Larger devices can freeze up to 40 kg of food per day.
Power consumption
Nowadays, when the cost of utilities is constantly rising, the energy consumption of the freezer plays an important role. After all, this device will generate kilowatt-hours for days. With the help of modern technologies, it has become possible to significantly reduce the consumption of household appliances, including freezers. In order to understand how much electricity the chosen equipment will consume per year, it was divided into special classes, which are necessarily indicated in the description:
- A+++ - less than 22 kW;
- A++ - from 22 to 33 kW;
- A+ - from 33 to 42 kW;
- A - from 42 to 55 kW;
- B - from 55 to 75 kW;
- C - from 75 to 95 kW;
- D - from 95 to 110 kW;
- E - from 110 to 125 kW;
- F - from 125 to 150 kW;
- G - more than 150 kW.
Climate class
Each of us has encountered the fact that some refrigerators or freezers freeze worse in the summer heat. To prevent this from happening, you need to choose a device that will suit your climate. Today there are 4 main and 4 mixed climate classes.
| Temperature range, °C | Climate class |
| Main classes | |
| +16..+32 | N (normal) |
| +10…+32 | SN (subnormal) |
| +18…+38 | ST (subtropical) |
| +18…+43 | T (tropical) |
| Mixed classes | |
| +16…+38 | N-ST |
| +16…+43 | NT |
| +10…+38 | SN-ST |
| +10…+43 | SN-T |
The correct choice of climate class of equipment will increase the period of its operation and reduce the possibility of failure of various units. Because devices that are designed to operate at elevated temperatures are equipped with a more powerful compressor and an increased insulating layer. When purchasing, it is best to choose a mixed climate class device. Because it will be more versatile and suitable for working with a wider temperature range.
Dimensions and volume
Freezers can have the following dimensions
| Characteristic | Vertical | Horizontal |
| Height, cm | 49−205 | 49−156 |
| Width, cm | 44−160 | 40−200 |
| Depth, cm | 45−79 | 45−60 |
| Volume, l | 100−650 | 98−650 |
Additional functions
Household freezers may be equipped with some additional features:
- Super freezing . Instant freezing of products at a temperature of -32°, with maximum preservation of all useful substances.
- Alarm . This function will indicate with a sound or light signal that you forgot to close the door in the freezer or chamber and the temperature has risen.
- Electronic display , which displays all important information about the state of the camera.
- Carbon filter. Provides air purification inside the system.
- A handle with a lever that presses the seal. Allows you to easily open the door.
Operation of freezers
The top shelves of freezers are designed for freezing food. And already frozen ones should be stored in the lower sections.
Set your freezer to the lowest temperature in advance.
It is advisable to install the new freezer in place, check that it does not wobble (tighten the legs if there are any), and leave it standing. You can plug in the freezer the next day.
It is advisable to periodically defrost and wash freezers, especially if an unappetizing aroma has already appeared inside.
If the kitchen doesn’t smell like violets, there’s no use in masking the smell, it’s time to take a rag
Defrosting is done manually or automatically (No Frost). You should not place containers of boiling water inside the chamber to speed up the defrosting process; this can negatively affect the refrigerant pressure in the evaporator.
If a thick layer of ice has formed in the freezer, you can carefully scrape it off with a plastic scraper.
A thick layer of ice indicates the need to defrost and clean the device.
After defrosting, it is advisable to rinse the chamber with a soda solution and wipe dry with a clean towel.
Remember to wipe down the outside of your freezer and clean the rack periodically.
Cleaning the freezer from dust
You can load food into a clean freezer half an hour after turning on the appliance.
And remember!
Even frozen foods have an expiration date! Dairy ice cream with filling can be stored in the freezer for 1 month
Sorbet can be kept in the freezer at -18°C for no more than 45 days
Rules for storing and freezing food
Rating of freezers for the home 2021
We present to you a review of the best freezers, according to our editors.
Freezer Liebherr GP 1476
The silent freezer ensures long-term temperature retention during a power outage. One of the most popular models. Liebherr GP 1476 - freezes perfectly even without light.
Price: ₽ 23,000
Freezer Liebherr G 1213-20
High-quality assembly, low noise level and affordable price have made this freezer model quite popular. Liebherr G 1213-20 is a miniature freezer, convenient for a small space.
Price: ₽ 19,000
Freezer Atlant M 7184-003
Large and quiet freezer, perfect for a large family. The retractable rack is very convenient for quick freezing of semi-finished products, berries and fruits. Atlant M 7184-003 - spacious and inexpensive freezer
Price: ₽ 17,000
Freezer Zanussi ZUF 11420 SA
A miniature freezer with manual defrosting and a super freeze function is perfect for quickly freezing and storing perishable foods. Zanussi ZUF 11420 SA - silent and high-quality equipment.
Price: ₽ 29,000
Freezer Bosch GSN36VW20
A fairly expensive freezer model with a large volume and equipped with the No Frost system. Bosch GSN36VW20 is perfect for a large family.
Price: ₽ 27,000
Freezer Pozis FV-108
Stylish, small, easy to use and lightweight, the Pozis FV-108 freezer operates almost silently. Pozis FV-108 - high-quality assembly and compact size
Price: ₽ 14,000
Freezer Hansa FS150.3
Chest freezer equipped with antibacterial coating. It has the ability to maintain temperature during a power outage for up to 30 hours. Hansa FS150.3 is a lightweight and convenient chest
Price: ₽ 16,000
Volume
Before choosing a freezer, you should decide on the storage capacity of frozen food in it. Models offered on the modern market have a freezer volume from 100 to 500 liters. For a small family of 3-4 people who plans to store winter preparations, meat, and fish products in the freezer, a chamber with a capacity of up to 250 liters is suitable. For a large family or for those who have a large summer cottage, the harvest from which will be stored in the chamber, we advise you to take a closer look at more spacious models.
Advice! Do not overload the freezer with food. In an overcrowded chamber, air exchange may be disrupted, which will affect the taste of the frozen products and may lead to an unpleasant odor in the chamber.
Comparison table of the best freezers for home
| Name | Main characteristics | Price |
| Liebherr GP 1476 | Dimensions (W×D×H): 60.2×62.8×85.1 cm, freezing capacity −11 kg/day, total volume − 106 l., freezer volume − 104 l., energy consumption − A+ +, defrosting - manual, climate class - SN, T., noise level - up to 38 dB. | ₽ 23 000 |
| Liebherr G 1213-20 | Dimensions (W×D×H): 55.3×62.4×85.1 cm, freezing capacity – 11 kg/day, total volume – 101 l., freezer volume – 98 l., energy consumption – A+ , defrosting - manual, climate class - SN, T., noise level - up to 42 dB. | ₽ 19 000 |
| Atlant | Dimensions (WxDxH) - 60x63x150 cm, freezing capacity - 20 kg/day, total volume - 240 l, freezer volume - 230 l, energy consumption - A, defrosting - manual, climate class - N, SN, ST, T, noise level - up to 42 dB. | ₽ 17 000 |
| Zanussi | Dimensions (W×D×H): 56×55×81.5 cm, freezing capacity −18 kg/day, total volume – 98 l, freezer volume − 96 l, energy consumption − A+, defrosting − manual, climate class − SN, ST, noise level − up to 42 dB, super freezing available | ₽ 29 000 |
| Bosch | Dimensions (W×D×H): 60×65×186 cm, freezing capacity – 19 kg/day, total volume – 97 l, freezer volume – 96 l, energy consumption – A+, defrosting – No Frost, climate class – SN,T, noise level - up to 40 dB, the presence of fast freezing, No Frost system and temperature indicator. | ₽ 27 000 |
| Pozis | Dimensions (WxDxH): 54x55x85 cm, freezing capacity - 9 kg/day, total volume - 91 l, freezer volume - 90 l, energy consumption - A, defrosting - manual, climate class - N, noise level - up to 40 dB. | ₽ 14 000 |
| Hansa | Dimensions (W×D×H): 76×56×84.5 cm, freezing capacity −7.5 kg/day, total volume – 150 l, freezer volume − 146 l, energy consumption − A+, defrosting − manual, climate class - N, ST, noise level - up to 40 dB. | ₽ 16 000 |
Advantages and disadvantages of a built-in freezer
The main advantage of built-in technology is its invisibility. One- and two-compartment freezers can be hidden behind the front of a kitchen cabinet in order to maintain the overall style of the kitchen. Such models are used in more difficult conditions and therefore require special installation, which provides additional ventilation. Such a freezer can be hidden behind the facade of kitchen furniture. An additional thermal insulation layer, expensive compressors - all this significantly increases the cost of built-in models, which is their disadvantage.
Freezers with the No Frost system
The “No Frost” system ensures uniform cooling of products due to constant circulation of cold air, and a special evaporator allows moisture to be removed from the freezer. After opening the door, the temperature in such a device is restored to the required temperature, much faster than in other models. However, when purchasing a freezer using this technology, be prepared for increased energy consumption and increased noise generated by the fans. Another feature of No Frost is the drying of openly stored products. That is why it is recommended to store semi-finished products in special heat-resistant bags in such freezers.
What are the quietest freezers?
Modern models are produced with minimal electricity consumption, with excellent consumer characteristics, and with optimal conditions for storing food. A very important parameter of freezers is the absence of noise during operation. The quietest freezers are:
SARATOV 153 (MKSH-135) . Inexpensive, silent units are compact and practical. Disadvantages include limited display and thick plastic for the drawers.
- NORD DF 168 WSP. It is distinguished by its large volume (256 l), harmony in the combination of technical characteristics and aesthetics. Energy consumption indicator is “A+”. The advantages are considered to be good build quality, lack of noise, excellent efficiency indicators, productive freezing.
- INDESIT SFR 167 NF C. The equipment is capable of freezing more than 10 kg of food per day. It is characterized by the presence of large drawers, fast freezing, an automated No Frost defrosting system, maintaining the set temperature, and low noise level. One of the disadvantages is the opacity of the front panels of the drawers.
- ATLANT M 7204-160. It can freeze up to 24 kg per day. It is distinguished by high performance, almost silent operation of the compressor, a solid working volume (243 l), the presence of reliable drawers, a long warranty (3 years), and a stylish appearance. The downside is that there is a strong magnet in the seal, which prevents the door from closing easily.
- GORENJE F 6181 AW. The elegant, silent freezer has a large chamber volume (261 l) and is well equipped (shelves, drawers). The freezer has effective thermal insulation and a light alarm indicating an increase in temperature. The disadvantage is manual defrosting.
- BEKO RENK 290E23 S . In this model, high accuracy of operation is ensured by electronics, the settings are controlled, and the temperature regime is maintained. In the chamber of considerable volume (290 l) you can store a large number of products. The upper shelves are made of durable glass and have a No Frost system.
- GORTNJE FN 6191 CX. The product is equipped with an automated No Frost system; temperature control is carried out electronically. The freezer makes almost no noise and freezes quickly. The freezer door is made of stainless steel.
- VESTFROST VF 390 W. The elegantly designed unit can freeze 22 kg of food per day. It is distinguished by a long service life, impeccable assembly, large working volume, almost silent operation of the compressor, and solid appearance.
- SAMSUNG RZ-32 M7110SA. A characteristic feature of the model is the presence of a built-in unit, which makes it possible to control equipment via the Internet or Wi-Fi, i.e. remote access to control. The large-volume freezer (315 l) has an ice generator, open door indication, and child protection. The unit is characterized by excellent performance, the presence of high-quality convenient shelves and a pusher on the handle, making it easier to open the door.
- LIEBHERR GNP The freezer has a minimal noise level, is economical and powerful. The equipment quickly freezes food and stores it for 20 hours in autonomous mode. The model has one drawback - high cost.
You may be interested in: Defrosting the freezer
There are many more models that do not make much noise during operation.
How to choose a freezer for your home
Choosing a freezer is a serious undertaking, and you need to approach it with all responsibility.
The freezer is a good way to store perishable foods. First of all, you need to determine exactly what type of device you need: built-in or regular. The next step will be the selection of dimensions. When measuring the space where you want to place a freezer in the future, be sure to leave a margin of a few centimeters, since due to uneven walls the device may not fit as you expect. If possible, choose a model from a well-known manufacturer with minimal energy consumption and a universal climate class. When choosing a freezer, be sure to read reviews about it, as users may report some nuances that you are not even aware of.
Manufacturers of the most reliable freezers
Every responsible buyer carefully chooses which freezer will be more reliable. In this case, you also need to focus on the manufacturer. Leaders in the large household appliances market are Bosch, Siemens, Nord, Indesit and Samsung. These companies provide warranty service for 5 years or more. But don't overlook smaller manufacturers such as Gorenje, Hansa, Liebherr and Saturn. If you choose the right characteristics, you can understand which freezer will be of good quality, and choose the one you need, and its price will not be as high as that of market leaders.
How to choose the best built-in freezer for your home (with video)
A criterion that does not in any way affect the quality or performance of the unit, but is very important for the interior of the kitchen. Most manufacturers offer models that can be placed anywhere. They are standard sizes and have a neutral appearance - white, silver or beige cabinets or chests, often with rounded corners. But if all the appliances in the kitchen are built-in and covered with doors that match the kitchen furniture, then you need to take a built-in freezer. There are not many of them on the market, but the best modern built-in freezers are from manufacturers such as LIEBHERR, Zanussi and, of course, Bosch.
You should choose equipment based not on its price, but on the functions that are necessary for life. The article describes all the necessary criteria for selection. For clarity, watch a video on how to choose a freezer for your home:
