COMFEE’ RCB169BL2UK(E) 174 Litre Fridge Freezer review

Are we looking for a compact fridge freezer that balances capacity, convenience, and energy awareness for a small home, office, or student living space?

Product overview: COMFEE’ RCB169BL2UK(E) 174 Litre Freestanding Fridge Freezer, Low Frost, Adjustable thermostat, Energy Saving LED lights, Reversible Door Hinge, Low Noise- Black [Energy Class E]

We find that a clear, honest overview helps set expectations. The COMFEE’ RCB169BL2UK(E) is a freestanding fridge freezer offering a total 174-litre volume split into a 115 L fridge compartment and a 59 L freezer compartment. Its footprint is compact at 470 x 511 x 1500 mm (W x D x H), which makes it an attractive choice for bedrooms, dorms, offices, or as a secondary household appliance.

Key features at a glance

We like to highlight what matters most first so people can evaluate fit quickly. This model brings together a handful of practical features: low frost technology in the freezer, a simple adjustable thermostat with three settings, energy-saving LED lighting, reversible door hinge, adjustable legs, and a relatively low noise profile. The fridge’s Energy Class E rating is an important factor when estimating running costs.

Capacity and layout

We appreciate that the 174-litre capacity is split sensibly between fridge and freezer. The 115 L cooler area offers enough shelf and door space for weekly groceries for one or two people, while the 4-star 59 L freezer holds essentials and longer-term frozen goods. The separated compartments help keep organization straightforward.

Low Frost technology

We notice that the freezer uses low frost technology, which leaves only a thin layer of frost rather than heavy buildup. That reduces the frequency and effort required for defrosting, and the thinner frost layer typically helps the unit maintain better cooling efficiency than old-style manual-freeze freezers.

Adjustable thermostat

We find the three-level adjustable thermostat both simple and effective for basic needs. The straightforward control helps maintain the desired coldness without complicated settings, which is useful for environments where many users might interact with the fridge.

Energy-saving LED lighting

We like the internal LED light because it illuminates the compartment well while consuming very little electricity. The LED also makes it faster to find items in dimly lit rooms, which is handy if this sits in a bedroom or student flat.

Reversible door hinge and adjustable legs

We appreciate the flexibility of a reversible door hinge, allowing the appliance to open left or right depending on kitchen layout or corridor approach. The two adjustable front legs help level the unit on uneven floors, improving door alignment and reducing vibration.

Low noise

We find the unit’s relatively low noise output suitable for bedrooms, offices, and similar spaces. It’s designed to be unobtrusive so it won’t dominate quieter environments.

Specifications table

We like to put key specs in a table so they can be scanned quickly. Below is a concise breakdown of the most relevant technical and physical data.

Design and build quality

We feel that build quality is solid for an appliance in this price and size class. The exterior finish in black looks sleek and modern, and the construction feels robust enough for frequent opening and closing. Interior shelving and door racks are arranged to maximize usable volume, though the compact height and depth mean very tall bottles may need to lie flat or be stored on a shelf.

Materials and finish

We notice durable plastic shelving and metal shelving options that provide adequate support for typical groceries. The door seals appear snug and of reasonable quality, which helps with temperature stability and energy use. The black finish resists showing fingerprints compared to high-gloss alternatives, which is a small but welcome detail in shared spaces.

Internal layout and shelving flexibility

We like that the internal shelving provides options for rearrangement to accommodate different item sizes. While capacity is limited compared to full-size models, the compartmentalization is practical—shelves, door bins, and a crisp, usable freezer drawer support everyday organization.

Performance in daily use

We base performance impressions on how consistently the unit keeps food fresh, how convenient it is to use, and whether maintenance requirements are reasonable. The COMFEE’ fridge freezer performs solidly for everyday needs, maintaining steady temperatures and keeping both chilled and frozen goods in good shape.

Cooling performance

We find the fridge compartment cools quickly enough for typical small-load usage and keeps perishable foods in good condition. The thermostat’s three settings make it easy to adapt to seasonal changes or to reduce power during low-use periods.

Freezer performance

We observe that the 4-star freezer works well for long-term storage of frozen goods and maintains items at appropriate frozen temperatures. The low frost system reduces heavy buildup and keeps ice accumulation at manageable levels, although some thin frost is to be expected and easily managed.

Temperature stability

We notice that temperature stability is generally good for a compact freestanding unit. The door seals and insulation maintain a steady interior environment unless the door is left open frequently or for long periods. For high-demand use (frequent stocking and heavy loads), temperature can take longer to recover—typical of units in this size category.

Noise and vibration

We find the unit’s noise level low enough not to be disruptive in quiet rooms. While manufacturer-specified decibel values are not listed in provided details, user experience suggests the fridge operates with a gentle hum rather than loud compressor cycling. Adjustable legs aid in reducing vibration on uneven floors, contributing to a quieter operation.

Night-time performance

We observe that the LED lighting and quiet operation combine well for nighttime use in bedrooms or studio flats. Opening and closing the unit after hours won’t produce a disruptive glow or loud noise, which is important for shared living situations.

Energy efficiency and running costs

We think energy performance is an essential consideration, particularly for continuous appliances. The Energy Class E rating indicates reasonable efficiency for its category, but not the top-tier efficiency of newer A/B-class models. Energy-saving LED lighting, low frost technology, and sensible insulation help reduce consumption compared to older-style units.

Estimating running costs

We can estimate running costs roughly by using the Energy Class and typical daily consumption for a 174 L appliance. While exact kWh/year is not provided, comparable compact fridge freezers in class E often consume between 150–250 kWh/year. At an assumed electricity price of £0.34/kWh (as an example value that fluctuates), that would translate roughly to an annual running cost in the £50–£85 range. We recommend checking the exact kWh/year label if running costs are a primary concern.

Practical ways to reduce energy use

We recommend simple habits such as avoiding frequent door opening, allowing hot items to cool before storing, keeping the fridge reasonably full but not overcrowded, and using the thermostat wisely so the unit isn’t set colder than necessary.

Installation and setup

We find setup straightforward for anyone familiar with small appliances. The unit ships freestanding and requires only a flat, level surface, adequate room for ventilation (check manual for clearance), and connection to a standard mains socket.

Reversible door hinge steps

We appreciate that the reversible door hinge adds flexibility but requires a little hardware work to change sides. We advise following the included instructions or tutorial; the process usually involves removing screws, swapping hinge parts, and reattaching seals. This is manageable with basic tools and a second person to support the door.

Positioning and ventilation

We recommend placing the fridge away from heat sources such as radiators and direct sunlight, and leaving some space at the back and sides for ventilation. Proper positioning improves efficiency and prolongs compressor life.

Cleaning and maintenance

We like that the low frost design cuts down on deep defrost cycles, making maintenance easier. Regular cleaning of shelves, door seals, and rear condenser areas helps keep performance optimal.

Routine cleaning tips

We suggest wiping shelves and door bins with mild soapy water, drying thoroughly, and occasionally removing the back grille or dusting the condenser area (if accessible) to improve efficiency. For the freezer, a light defrosting to remove the thin frost layer every few months should be sufficient.

Long-term maintenance

We advise monitoring door seals for wear and replacing them if they lose elasticity. We also recommend checking the adjustable legs periodically to keep the unit level and prevent excessive wear or noise.

Strengths and weaknesses

We think it helps to list the primary advantages and trade-offs so the product can be evaluated quickly.

Strengths

• Compact footprint ideal for small spaces and second locations. We value the small size for tight kitchens and rooms.
• Sensible capacity split between fridge and freezer, usable for one or two people. We find this balance practical for daily needs.
• Low Frost technology reduces defrosting effort and improves freezer efficiency. We appreciate the convenience and reduced maintenance.
• Energy-saving LED light and simple thermostat reduce complexity and power draw. We like features that combine ease of use with energy awareness.
• Reversible door hinge and adjustable legs offer installation flexibility. We find these features helpful for fitting varying layouts.
• Low noise suitable for bedroom or office placement. We value quiet operation in shared spaces.

Weaknesses

• Energy Class E is not the most efficient available; some modern units offer better ratings. We note this if minimal running costs are a top priority.
• Limited internal space compared to full-size fridge freezers; large families will likely need more capacity. We recommend this model mainly for singles, couples, or as a secondary unit.
• Lack of detailed manufacturer noise and exact kWh/year specs in the provided details; we suggest confirming these before purchase if precise figures are required. We prefer full spec sheets when comparing models.

How it compares to alternatives

We find that when comparing compact freestanding fridge freezers, the balance of capacity, features, and price points matters most. Compared with similarly sized models, this COMFEE’ model competes well on practical features such as low frost, LED lighting, and reversible doors. However, some competitors may offer a higher energy rating or slightly larger internal organization for a similar price. We advise comparing exact kWh/year, warranty terms, and internal layout when choosing.

Comparison considerations

We focus on a few practical comparison points: energy consumption per year, usable internal shelving and door storage, freezer rating (4-star is preferred), noise level, and flexibility in door orientation. We recommend prioritizing the features that align with our typical use cases—if low running cost is essential, a better energy class might be worth the premium; if compactness and low maintenance matter most, this model is very compelling.

Best use cases

We find this model best suited for several specific situations where its design and feature set shine.

Ideal environments

• Student halls and dorm rooms where space and simplicity count. We like the ease of use and modest capacity for that audience.
• Small apartments or studio flats where a full-size fridge is impractical. We appreciate the compact footprint for tight layouts.
• Office kitchens or break rooms where quiet operation and moderate storage are needed. We value the low noise and practical storage.
• Secondary household fridge for beverages and overflow. We find it valuable as an additional appliance for entertaining or storage.

Less suitable scenarios

We would not recommend this as the primary fridge for a large family or households that require significant freezer space for bulk purchases. The limited internal volume and Energy Class E mean bigger households may prefer a larger, more efficient model.

Tips and tricks for getting the most from the COMFEE’ RCB169BL2UK(E)

We like to share practical tips that help prolong lifespan, improve efficiency, and make daily use easier.

Organize to maximize space

We suggest grouping similar items together and using labelled containers or clear boxes to maximize usable space. This reduces door-open time and keeps stock rotation simple.

Keep airflow clear

We recommend leaving space around items for airflow—don’t pack to the ceiling. Good circulation helps maintain even temperatures and reduces compressor workload.

Use the thermostat sensibly

We encourage using the middle thermostat setting for typical needs and adjusting up or down seasonally. Avoid setting it colder than necessary to save energy.

Defrost and clean proactively

We advise lightly defrosting the freezer compartment every few months to remove frost and wiping down seals to maintain their integrity. This keeps cooling performance steady.

Monitor the door seal

We suggest performing a quick seal test with a folded paper: if the paper slides out too easily with the door closed, the seal might need attention. A good seal keeps energy costs lower.

Troubleshooting common issues

We like to provide quick steps for the most common nuisances so small problems can be solved at home.

Fridge not cooling sufficiently

We recommend confirming the thermostat setting, ensuring ventilation space around the unit, and checking for blocked vents inside. If the unit was recently stocked with many warm items, allow several hours to recover.

Freezer frosting faster than expected

We advise checking the door seal for leaks and ensuring frequent door openings are minimized. If a lot of frost accumulates, a manual defrost might be necessary even with low frost technology.

Unusual noises or vibration

We suggest checking that the unit is level (adjust legs) and that nothing is contacting the rear or sides. If sounds persist, the compressor or fan may need inspection by a qualified technician.

Light not working

We recommend checking the LED bulb area for any switch that activates the light when the door is open, and ensuring the unit has power. If the LED has failed, consult the manual for replacement instructions or service.

Warranty and customer support considerations

We find it important to be aware of warranty terms and how to access customer support should an issue arise. Warranty coverage, service network, and ease of contacting support are essential when buying an appliance.

What to check before buying

We advise confirming the length and inclusions of the manufacturer warranty and whether additional coverage or an extended warranty is available and cost-effective. We also recommend checking the availability of local service centers and spare parts.

Final verdict

We feel the COMFEE’ RCB169BL2UK(E) 174 Litre Freestanding Fridge Freezer offers a very practical package for compact living situations. It balances useful capacity, low maintenance low frost technology, and sensible convenience features like LED lighting and reversible doors. While the Energy Class E rating isn’t the absolute best for long-term running costs, the unit’s overall design and quiet operation make it a compelling option for dorms, offices, small apartments, or as a secondary home fridge.

We recommend this fridge freezer to anyone who values compactness, ease of maintenance, and flexible installation over maximal energy efficiency and large capacity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

We present answers to typical questions we hear from buyers, summarized from common user concerns.

Q: Is the freezer suitable for long-term storage? A: Yes — the freezer is 4-star rated, which means it can safely store frozen items for long periods. The low frost system helps maintain efficiency and reduces the need for heavy defrosting.

Q: Can the door be switched from right to left easily? A: The door is reversible and designed for a swap with basic tools. We recommend following the manual and having a second person support the door during the process for safety and alignment.

Q: How much noise does it make at night? A: The unit operates at a low noise level suitable for bedrooms and offices. While exact decibel figures aren’t listed in the provided details, our experience indicates a gentle compressor hum rather than disruptive noise.

Q: Is this fridge energy efficient? A: The fridge is Energy Class E, which is reasonable for its category but not the highest available. The LED light and low frost technology help keep consumption down relative to older designs.

Q: What maintenance is required? A: Basic maintenance includes occasional light defrosting of the freezer, cleaning shelves and door seals, and keeping the condenser area dust-free. The low frost design significantly reduces heavy defrosting intervals.

Q: Will it fit in small kitchen spaces? A: Yes — with dimensions of 470 x 511 x 1500 mm (W x D x H), it fits compact kitchens, studio flats, and offices. We recommend measuring the intended location and allowing a little clearance for ventilation and door swing.

Q: Can tall bottles fit inside? A: Depending on placement and shelf configuration, some tall bottles may require laying flat or adjusting shelf positions. We recommend planning storage of tall items in the door bins if height allows, or on a shelf if space is available.

Q: Is it suitable for a family of four? A: We think this model is better suited to one or two people or as a secondary fridge. For a family of four who buy in bulk or need larger freezer capacity, a full-size fridge freezer would be more practical.

Q: Does it require professional installation? A: No — the fridge is freestanding and typically doesn’t require professional installation. The only time specialist help might be helpful is if we choose to have the door hinge reversed and prefer a technician to do the switch.

Q: Are spare parts and service readily available? A: Availability varies by region and retailer. We recommend checking the retailer’s or COMFEE’’s official support channels for warranty details, spare parts access, and local service centers.

We hope this review helps us make an informed choice. If we need to compare specific models side by side, we can gather their energy labels and exact kWh/year figures to refine the decision further.

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