How XXL fridge-freezers can help consumers cut down on energy usage

XXL fridge-freezers not only offer extra capacity but independent cooling zones with precise temperature and humidity controls – Sally Smith talks to to the experts to find out more.

The latest XXL fridge-freezers not only have whopping capacities, but feature variable speed compressors so different foods can be chilled in independent cooling zones. ‘Flexi’ fridge to freezer drawers make these extra-large cooling appliances a sound investment for customers wanting to trade up.

"The key difference with XXL fridge-freezers, particularly at the high end of the market, lies in the level of control and precision they offer. One of the most useful developments is the ability to maintain extremely stable temperatures across different compartments. The extra capacity allows for independent cooling zones, each of which benefits from specific temperature and humidity levels," explains Craig Davies, MD at Sub-Zero & Wolf.

The energy performance of these units has also improved significantly in recent years due to advances in compressor technology. He adds: "Many of these large-capacity fridge-freezers now use variable-speed compressors, which means they adapt energy use depending on demand, rather than operating at full power constantly,."

Tim Hutchinson, divisional manager at Liebherr UK, can see the real benefits that XXL refrigeration offers consumers. "Our latest generation of XXL fridge-freezers offer far more than just increased capacity. These appliances feature advanced technologies such as BioFresh Professional, which maintains precise humidity and temperature to keep food fresh for up to 5 times longer than conventional refrigeration. VarioTemp adds flexibility by allowing users to convert freezer compartments into additional fridge space, making it easy to adapt to changing storage needs."

For consumers looking for a premium, intuitive and future-proof refrigeration solution there is a wide range of XXL fridge-freezers currently on the market.

Caner Duran, head of business unit – cooling, BSH UK & Ireland, says: "Our French-door fridge-freezer comes with the Vita Fresh XXL Pro 0°C system, which provides climate-controlled sections for fish, meat and fresh fruit and veg, keeping food fresh for longer, with more capacity than the Vita Fresh system in standard-sized models. Our built-in models optimise the available space by increasing the height of the fridge compartment, making use of the top shelf, and also by reducing the size of the exterior panels to increase the internal storage from 260 to 290 litres."

"Unlike standard fridge-freezers, XXL models offer multi-zone flexibility with a 0°C area,  allowing users to tailor compartments for meats, produce, or drinks. Humidity control drawers to preserve freshness for longer with adjustable moisture settings and rapid cooling functions. Sophisticated inverter compressors adjust cooling output based on usage, reducing energy waste," explains James Bethell, business director at Haier UK & Ireland.

One of the benefits these larger refrigeration appliances offer customers is adjustable humidity settings in a range of compartments preserving the freshness and quality of different food categories.

Bertazzoni has invested in the latest technology systems to offer customers the most energy-efficient cooling appliance when it comes to XXL refrigeration. Paul Whyte, commercial director, Bertazzoni UK & Eire says: "The temperature of our Master Series fridge-freezer can be controlled by customers by using an LED touch interface, and the refrigerator drawers have adjustable humidity to keep food fresher for optimum time and taste."

‘Flexi’ chilled to freezing drawers on these XXL refrigeration appliances gives customers a truly bespoke option when it comes to efficient fresh food storage.