Baridi 47cm 70/30 Fridge Freezer DH253 review

Looking for a compact fridge freezer that balances fresh food space and a usable freezer without taking over your kitchen?

Product overview

You’ll find that the Baridi 47cm 70/30 Fridge Freezer with Adjustable Thermostat, 157L Capacity, Reversible Door, Low Frost, 3 Star Rating – Black – DH253 [Energy Class E] aims to serve small to medium households that want a reliable, space-conscious appliance. The unit tries to combine practical storage, flexible door options, and lower-maintenance freezing with a low frost system — all in a slim 47cm width that suits tighter kitchen layouts.

This model’s name already gives a lot away: 157L total capacity, an emphasis on fridge space with a 70/30 split, a reversible door, and an adjustable thermostat so you can fine-tune temperatures. Before you commit, you’ll want to weigh the performance expectations, energy implications, and everyday usability I cover below.

Key specifications

Below is a clear breakdown of the most important specs so you can quickly see whether this fridge freezer fits your needs. The table collects the headline figures and features that matter most when you’re comparing options.

Review this table while thinking about how much fresh versus frozen storage you actually use. If you’re unsure about the star rating discrepancy (title says 3-star while details mention 4-star), contact the seller or check the official energy/frost labels before purchase so you know exactly what freezing performance to expect.

Design and build

You’ll notice the Baridi DH253 is designed to be narrow and practical, with a clean black finish that fits many modern kitchens. Its 47cm width is the standout, enabling installation in tighter gaps while still offering decent capacity.

The build quality feels utilitarian rather than luxury — that’s common in this class. Expect straightforward materials and a finish that resists fingerprints reasonably well, but if you want soft-close doors or premium trims, this isn’t the class for that.

Exterior design details

When you look closely, the fridge has a simple, functional facade with a handle integrated into the door design or a slim external handle depending on the model batch. It aims for a minimal aesthetic so it won’t dominate your kitchen visual space.

You’ll appreciate the reversible door hinges if your kitchen layout changes or if you switch homes, since you can set the door to open left or right. The black color makes it easy to pair with other appliances and cabinetry finishes.

Interior layout and materials

Inside, shelves are usually glass or plastic-trimmed glass that can take typical food storage loads, and door bins are arranged to hold bottles and smaller items. The 70/30 split gives you a roomy fridge area for fresh produce, dairy, and prepared meals, while the freezer compartment is compact and primarily for essentials.

Materials are chosen for cost-effectiveness and ease of cleaning. You’ll find removable shelves and door bins so you can customize storage and wash parts quickly when needed.

Capacity and storage

The 157L total capacity is practical for solo users, couples, or small families who cook at home a few times a week and don’t need large frozen storage. The 109L fridge section gives you more room for fresh groceries, which is where most of your daily storage needs happen.

If you often buy bulk frozen goods or batch-cook for longer-term storage, you may find the 48L freezer limiting. However, if your priority is fresh food, meal prep, and beverages, the split is sensible and likely to match your habits.

Fridge compartment usability

You’ll find the fridge compartment better suited for everyday use: crisp drawers for vegetables, adjustable shelving to accommodate taller bottles, and door racks for condiments. The larger fresh food area reduces the need to alternate between fridge and freezer for daily items.

If you like to keep a variety of meal components organized, the flexibility in shelf arrangement will help you create zones for dairy, leftovers, and fresh produce. Just plan shelf placement before stocking so you maximize the 109L efficiently.

Freezer compartment usability

The 48L freezer is compact and best used for short-term storage and frozen essentials like ice, a few bags of frozen vegetables, or quick meals. If you freeze raw meats or do a lot of long-term freezing, you’ll need to manage space carefully or supplement with a dedicated freezer.

The low frost system helps keep that space usable longer without heavy frost buildup, but because it’s smaller, think about rotation — use older items first and keep an inventory so nothing gets lost in the back.

Cooling performance

You’ll want a fridge that maintains even cooling in the fridge area and a freezer that reaches and holds the target temperatures. The adjustable thermostat on the Baridi DH253 gives you control, and the 70/30 ratio biases cooling power to the fridge section where you likely need it most.

Performance is generally good for mid-range, budget-conscious models: it stabilizes typical household temperatures and will keep your dairy and produce fresh for expected durations. If you need pro-grade rapid chilling or commercial-level cold holding, then look at higher-end lines.

Freezing capability and star rating note

The product name states a 3-star rating, while the product details mention a 4-star rating — this is inconsistent across the listing. If you see 4-star confirmed by the seller, that means stronger freezing capability for longer-term storage. If it’s 3-star, the freezer still handles everyday frozen items well but may not maintain the same performance for prolonged deep-freeze storage.

Before buying, verify the actual star rating on the appliance label or product sheet. The star rating determines how low the freezer can go and how well it preserves long-term frozen goods, which impacts how you’ll use the 48L space.

Temperature stability and thermostat

You’ll be able to tweak the internal temperature with the adjustable thermostat to suit seasonal conditions or how full the fridge is. It’s useful if you live in a warmer climate or if you frequently open the door and want to compensate for temperature swings.

Expect basic numeric dial or a simple control panel rather than digital precision. For most household needs, that’s sufficient — it lets you find a comfortable setting and maintain it without fuss.

Low Frost technology

Low Frost technology reduces the speed at which frost builds up in the freezer compartment, so you don’t have to manually defrost as often. That’s especially handy in compact freezers where frost can quickly reduce usable space.

You’ll still need to defrost occasionally, but Low Frost extends the interval and helps maintain efficient cooling. This cuts down on maintenance time and can keep the freezer operating closer to its optimal performance for longer.

How low frost affects daily use

Because frost accumulation is slower, you’ll notice fewer large ice patches and less frequent loss of usable freezer volume. That means you spend more time using the freezer and less time scraping away ice.

It does not eliminate the need to defrost altogether, so plan a cleaning schedule (perhaps once or twice a year depending on use) to keep interior surfaces clean and inspection points clear.

Cleaning and maintenance benefits

You’ll find cleaning easier since thick frost layers won’t form quickly. When you do defrost, it’s generally less messy and takes less time.

Maintaining good airflow inside the compartments and avoiding overpacking will complement the low frost benefits, so leave space around items for air circulation.

Energy efficiency and running costs

The Baridi DH253 carries an Energy Class E rating. That places it in a moderate consumption range compared to modern A–G scales or newer EU labelling; it’s not the most efficient on the market, but it isn’t the worst either.

You should expect running costs to be higher than newer A or B class appliances. If energy cost is a major decision factor, check the actual kWh/year label on the specific unit and compare it to other fridges of similar size to get a realistic picture of ongoing expenses.

Tips to minimize energy use

You can reduce running costs by keeping the fridge reasonably full (but not overfilled), setting the thermostat to a moderate but safe level, and minimizing the time the door is open. Also, avoid placing the fridge near heat sources like ovens or direct sunlight, and allow sufficient ventilation around the unit.

Regular maintenance such as cleaning condenser coils (if accessible on this model) and defrosting when needed keeps the compressor working efficiently, which can help moderate power consumption over time.

Considering energy class in your purchase

If you expect to run the fridge 24/7 for many years, a more energy-efficient model might save you money over the lifetime of the appliance. However, if upfront budget, compact size, or specific layout constraints matter more, the Baridi’s features may outweigh the higher energy class.

Factor the cost difference in electricity bills into your budget calculation. Sometimes the price premium for a higher energy class pays back over a few seasons; other times your usage patterns or sale pricing make a class E model perfectly sensible.

Noise and vibration

You’ll generally find noise levels acceptable for kitchens, especially since most households have competing appliance sounds and ambient noise. The compressor hum and occasional cycling are typical.

If you plan to install the fridge in a studio apartment, bedroom-adjacent space, or a quiet open-plan living area where silence matters, check the decibel rating on the specific unit and read owner reviews for real-world noise impressions.

What to watch for regarding sound

Pay attention to rattles or vibration when the fridge is new; these can often be resolved by leveling the appliance or adjusting placement. Most hums are ordinary, but loud or irregular noises might indicate a fault that needs warranty repair.

Regularly check that it sits firmly and evenly on the floor; uneven feet amplify vibration and may shorten component life in the long run.

Installation and placement

You’ll appreciate the 47cm width if you’re working with limited cabinet gaps or a narrow utility room. The reversible door helps ensure the fridge can fit into many configurations where hinge direction matters.

Allow adequate clearance for ventilation around the back and top as recommended by the manufacturer — proper airflow is essential for efficient compressor operation and heat dissipation. If you plan a built-in look, consider a free-standing installation gap per the manual.

Reversible door flexibility

The reversible door makes this fridge much more adaptable to different kitchen layouts and allows you to choose the side that creates the best flow for cooking and pantry access. Swapping the hinge side usually requires a few tools and some patience, and many sellers include instructions.

If you move the unit later, the reversible option increases resale or repurposing flexibility because you can adapt it to a new home’s layout.

Space and ventilation requirements

You’ll want a few centimetres of clearance behind and above the unit for safe, efficient operation. If you push the fridge flush against a wall or install it in a tight alcove, heat buildup can reduce efficiency and shorten component life.

Measure your installation gap carefully, including space for the power cable, and ensure the door has room to open fully without hitting cabinets or walls.

Usability and everyday features

You’ll find the adjustable thermostat straightforward, shelves that are easy to move, and door bins designed for common bottle sizes. This usability focus helps you quickly set things up and store common grocery items without a lot of rearranging.

If you like modular storage and the ability to customize shelving for odd-shaped items, check the number of shelf positions and the flexibility of the door bins on the actual unit you receive.

Shelving arrangement and flexibility

Shelves are typically tempered glass or plastic-trimmed glass, so you can’t cram massive loads without cautious placement. The ability to reposition shelves lets you create space for tall bottles or stack shallow containers.

Use the crisper drawers to separate fruit and vegetables and keep humidity-sensitive items where they’ll last longer.

Door storage and bottle capacity

Door racks are handy for sauces, drinks, and smaller items you access frequently. You’ll find the larger door bins useful for soft drink bottles and the smaller racks good for jars and condiments.

Avoid storing delicate items like eggs or soft cheeses in door racks if your kitchen gets warm; the door is the warmest location when frequently opened.

Maintenance and cleaning

You’ll appreciate features like removable shelves and low frost that make maintenance easier than older, full-manual-defrost models. Regular cleaning helps maintain performance and hygiene.

Plan for scheduled wiping down of interiors, cleaning of gaskets, and occasional defrosting when frost builds up more than usual. Doing a little maintenance regularly prevents bigger headaches later.

Defrosting and low frost practices

Even though Low Frost reduces frost formation, you’ll still want to defrost if you notice a layer of ice over 5mm thick. Thinner frost can be left as-is periodically during normal use.

To defrost, empty the freezer and place towels to catch water, then allow ice to melt naturally or use warm (not boiling) water in containers to speed the process. Never use sharp tools to chip ice.

Cleaning tips and food safety

Use a solution of warm water and mild detergent to clean interior surfaces, and dry thoroughly before replacing shelves and food. Clean seals and gaskets with a mild detergent to keep a tight door seal and prevent odours.

For food safety, keep raw meats in sealed containers and use a thermometer occasionally to ensure fridge and freezer are holding safe temperatures (fridge around 3–5°C, freezer at or below -18°C if star rating supports deep freezing).

Reliability and warranty

You’ll want to check the specific warranty terms offered by Baridi or the vendor, as warranty length and coverage can vary by seller, retailer promotions, and region. Typically, you should expect a standard manufacturer warranty on parts and labour for at least a year.

Reliability for models in this price and spec bracket is generally reasonable for normal use, but as with any appliance, lifecycle factors such as compressor life, thermostat accuracy, and door seal wear depend on usage and maintenance.

Common issues and how to avoid them

Typical small-fridge issues include inconsistent temperature due to poor placement, frost buildup from leaving the door ajar, and noisy operation related to leveling. You can minimize many of these by following installation guidelines and performing routine checks.

Keep vents clear, don’t overload shelves, and fix door seal problems early to prevent larger repair bills down the line.

Warranty claims and support

If you get a faulty unit, contact the retailer first and then the manufacturer if needed. Keep your receipt and any product labels handy, and take photos of serial numbers and the unit if you need to make a claim.

A robust seller support channel and clear warranty policy are valuable; check reviews about after-sales service from other buyers before purchasing.

Troubleshooting common problems

If your fridge isn’t cooling well, check placement, thermostat setting, and whether vents are blocked. If you hear unusual noises, ensure the appliance is level and that nothing inside is vibrating against the back wall.

For persistent performance issues, record the problem (temperatures, noises, and behaviour) and contact service. Quick documentation helps technicians diagnose and fix problems faster.

Quick fixes you can try

You can often fix minor issues by cleaning the condenser coils (if accessible), re-leveling the unit, or checking the door seals for gaps. Resetting the thermostat and allowing the unit to settle after a recent door-open session can also restore normal function.

If the problem is electrical (tripping breakers, intermittent power), check your home wiring and outlet. For anything beyond simple fixes, call qualified service to avoid voiding warranty or causing injury.

Comparison with similar models

Compared with other compact fridge freezers, the Baridi DH253 emphasizes a larger fridge compartment relative to the freezer, which suits people who prioritize fresh-food storage. Many direct competitors might offer similar capacity but differ in energy class, frost technology, or build finish.

If you want a unit with lower running costs, look for newer A–C class models. If you need a bigger freezer, compare models with 50–100L freezer sections or consider a separate chest or upright freezer.

Price vs features balance

You can often find competing models with similar capacity but different trade-offs — some prioritize low energy consumption, others prioritize larger frozen compartments or quieter operation. Your choice should reflect which of these factors matters most to you.

If budget is tight, you may accept an E class rating and occasional defrosting for lower upfront cost. If long-term running costs matter more, pay closer attention to the energy label and kWh/year figures.

Alternatives to consider

If you want more freezer volume, look at 200L+ models with a 60/40 or 50/50 split. If energy efficiency is a priority, focus on A–C class appliances even if you need to shop a slightly smaller capacity. For premium kitchens, stainless steel finishes and digital controls are common in higher-end models.

Think about whether a slim upright or a short, wider fridge better fits your layout; the Baridi’s slim profile is a specific advantage if width is your limiting factor.

Who is this fridge for?

You’ll find this fridge best suits singles, couples, or small households who value fresh food storage and modest freezer space. It’s also ideal for anyone who needs a slim unit for a compact kitchen, office, or secondary unit (for example, in a rental flat or student housing).

If you bake often, do lots of bulk freezing, or host frequently and need big freezer backup, this might feel limiting. But for everyday grocery keeping and moderate meal prep, it’s a practical and cost-effective option.

Ideal household scenarios

If you shop frequently and tend to buy fresh produce that you use within a few days, the larger fridge section will align well with your habits. If you use the freezer sparingly for ready meals and occasional frozen goods, the 48L compartment should be fine.

For small families that cook at home and refrigerate leftovers, this model strikes a reasonable balance without taking up kitchen real estate.

Pros and cons

You’ll appreciate the compact width, practical fridge-first storage split, reversible door, and low frost technology. The adjustable thermostat and simple interior layout make it easy to use day to day.

On the downside, energy class E means higher running costs than newer, more efficient models, and the smaller freezer may be limiting for heavy freezers. Also, check the star-rating discrepancy so you know the freezing depth you’ll actually get.

Buying tips and final recommendation

Before you buy, verify the exact star rating and check the energy label for kWh/year so you can estimate running costs. Measure your installation gap and ensure you allow ventilation space, and confirm whether the vendor includes a warranty and what it covers.

If you want a slim, practical fridge freezer that prioritizes fresh food storage and is low-maintenance thanks to low frost technology, the Baridi 47cm DH253 is a sensible choice. If long-term energy costs or a large freezer are top priorities, compare nearby alternatives before deciding.

What to check before you buy

Confirm the star rating discrepancy in the product listing, check the kWh/year number, read recent customer reviews for real-life performance notes, and verify warranty length and service options. Measure your space thoroughly and note hinge orientation so you can set the door to open in the optimal direction.

Also ask about delivery and installation: some sellers offer hinge reversal or installation services for a fee.

How to get the best performance

Place the fridge away from heat sources, keep it level, and allow space for ventilation. Keep the thermostat at reasonable settings, avoid overloading the fridge, and clean gaskets and interior surfaces periodically.

If you use the freezer only occasionally, rotate items so older food doesn’t get forgotten. Regular light maintenance keeps cooling efficient and preserves the unit’s lifespan.

Frequently asked questions

Q: Is the freezer deep enough to store raw meat long-term? A: The freezer is 48L and intended for short- to medium-term storage. If you need long-term deep-freeze storage of large quantities of meat, choose a model with a higher freezer capacity and confirm the verified star rating.

Q: How often will I need to defrost? A: Low Frost technology slows frost buildup, so you’ll defrost less often than older models. Expect to defrost perhaps once or twice a year depending on use and environment, but monitor frost thickness and defrost when it exceeds a few millimetres.

Q: Can you change the door hinge side yourself? A: Yes, the door is reversible and can be changed with basic tools; instructions are usually supplied. If you’re not comfortable with the process, most retailers or local appliance technicians can perform the switch for a small fee.

Q: What are the energy costs compared to other fridges? A: The unit is Energy Class E, which is moderate compared with newer, more efficient A–C class models. Check the kWh/year on the appliance’s specific label to estimate annual running costs and compare that figure with alternatives.

Q: Is the fridge noisy? A: Noise is typically the normal compressor hum and cycling you’d expect for this class of fridge. If you notice loud or unusual sounds, check leveling and placement; persistent abnormal noise may require servicing.

Q: Will the fridge fit in a standard kitchen gap? A: At 47cm wide, this fridge fits narrow gaps that many standard units won’t. Measure your space for depth and height as well, and allow clearance for ventilation and door opening.

Q: Are shelves adjustable and dishwasher-safe? A: Shelves are usually adjustable and removable, but confirm the material before assuming dishwasher safety. Most glass shelves are best hand-washed or cleaned with warm soapy water.

Q: Is the 3-star vs 4-star discrepancy important? A: Yes — the star rating affects freezing capability and the types of items and storage durations the freezer can handle. Verify the actual rating with the seller or on the appliance label before purchase.

Q: What kind of maintenance does the fridge need? A: Routine cleaning, occasional defrosting, gasket inspections, and keeping ventilation clear are the main tasks. Addressing small issues early prevents bigger repairs later.

Q: Who should avoid this model? A: If you need a very large freezer, top-tier energy efficiency, or luxury features like digital controls, you should consider other models. This one is best when you prioritize compactness, a larger fresh-food area, and simplicity.

If you’d like, I can compare this model directly against a specific competitor or create a short shopping checklist tailored to your kitchen dimensions and typical food habits so you can decide with confidence.

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.