COMFEE’ RCU83WH2(E) 88L Under Counter Freezer Review

Have you been hunting for a compact freezer that actually fits under your counter without sacrificing storage space or performance?

Why This Under Counter Freezer Might Be Exactly What You Need

You might be short on space, but that doesn’t mean you want to compromise on freezer capacity or reliability. The COMFEE’ RCU83WH2(E) 88L Freestanding Under Counter Freezer, 55cm Wide, Reversible Door, 3 Drawers, 4 Star Freezer Rating, Adjustable Thermostat, White [Energy Class E] is made for small kitchens, flats, utility rooms, or even offices where every inch counts.

You get a good mix of capacity, quiet operation, flexibility, and simple controls, all in a compact footprint that can neatly tuck under a standard counter.

Key Features at a Glance

Before you decide if this is the right freezer for you, it helps to see the main specifications laid out clearly. Here’s a quick overview so you can judge how well it fits your home and habits.

You can see that it’s designed to be simple, compact, and practical. It’s not trying to be a flashy smart appliance; instead, it focuses on doing the basics well.

Capacity and Size: How Much Can You Really Store?

Understanding the 88L Capacity

With 88 litres of storage, you have enough space to keep a good amount of frozen food without the bulk of a full-size chest freezer. If you cook in batches, love keeping frozen vegetables and meat on hand, or rely on ready-made meals, this capacity will probably suit you well.

You can easily fit a mix of items such as bags of frozen vegetables, meat, fish, bread, leftovers, and ice cream, without everything being crammed in and impossible to manage.

Will It Fit Under Your Counter?

The freezer measures 55.3 cm wide, 57.4 cm deep, and 84.5 cm high. This size is ideal if you want it to sit under a standard kitchen counter or in a utility room space.

Before you commit, you should measure your available space carefully, including height clearance under the worktop and enough room at the back and sides for ventilation. If your gap is around 60 cm wide or more, this freezer should slot in with room to spare on the sides.

4 Star Freezer Rating: What It Means for Your Food

Keeping Food Safely Frozen at -18°C

The 4-star freezer rating means the appliance can reach and maintain temperatures of -18°C or below. This is the recommended temperature for long-term food storage, helping you keep meat, fish, vegetables, and prepared meals safe and fresh for months.

If you like to do big food shops or freeze leftovers, this rating gives you peace of mind that your food won’t slowly degrade because of inconsistent freezing.

Why 4 Star Matters More Than You Might Think

Some small freezers or fridge-freezer compartments only reach -6°C or -12°C, which is fine for short-term storage but not ideal if you want to freeze fresh food from room temperature for extended periods. With a 4-star rating, you can safely freeze fresh items and not just store already frozen food.

This makes a big difference if you cook raw meat in bulk, buy family-size packs to save money, or want to prepare meals in advance and freeze them for the week or month ahead.

Drawer Layout: 3 Transparent Drawers for Easy Organisation

How the 3 Drawer Design Helps You Stay Organised

Inside, you get 3 transparent freezer drawers, which are very handy for keeping similar items together. For example, you might use the top drawer for frozen vegetables and fruit, the middle for meat and fish, and the bottom for bread, ice cream, and leftovers.

Because the drawers are separated, you are less likely to lose items at the back or end up with everything in one big frozen pile that you have to dig through.

The Benefit of Transparent Fronts

Each drawer front is transparent, so you can see what is inside without pulling drawers all the way out. This simple design detail saves you time and helps minimise the amount of warm air entering the freezer every time you open it.

Over time, that can help your freezer maintain a more stable temperature and use energy a little more efficiently, because you are not leaving the door open trying to find something you can’t see.

Reversible Door: Fits Your Kitchen Layout, Not the Other Way Around

Adjusting the Door to Suit Your Space

One of the most useful features is the reversible door hinge. You can install the door to open either to the left or to the right, depending on your kitchen layout or where other appliances and walls are positioned.

If your freezer is going in a corner, next to a wall, or beside a cupboard door, the ability to change the opening direction lets you avoid awkward clashes or blocked access.

Planning Your Kitchen Flow More Comfortably

Having the flexibility to change the door side gives you more freedom when planning your kitchen or utility room. Maybe you move home later or rearrange your room; you can adjust the door instead of being stuck with a freezer that opens in the wrong direction.

This is especially helpful if you want this freezer as an additional appliance and need it to work around your existing fridge, dishwasher, or washing machine.

Adjustable Legs: Keeping Things Level and Stable

Why Level Installation Matters

You also get two front adjustable legs, which allow you to level the freezer if your floor is slightly uneven. A stable appliance is more than just a cosmetic detail; it affects performance and noise.

When the freezer sits level, the door seals properly, drawers run more smoothly, and the compressor doesn’t vibrate as much. Over time, that means better efficiency, fewer rattles, and a door that doesn’t swing open or closed on its own.

Adapting to Different Surfaces

Whether your freezer stands on tiles, laminate, vinyl, or slightly uneven concrete in a utility room, those adjustable legs give you some control. You can tweak the height at the front until you are happy that the appliance is stable and sits in line with surrounding cupboards or worktops.

Energy Efficiency: What You Can Expect from an E Rating

Understanding the E Energy Class

This model is rated Energy Class E, which, under current EU/UK labelling standards, is a mid-range efficiency rating for a small freezer. It is not the most efficient on the market, but it also isn’t wasteful, especially given its compact size and purpose.

For most households, the running costs of an 88L E-rated freezer will be quite reasonable, particularly if you use it sensibly and keep the door closed as much as possible.

Balancing Efficiency with Affordability

Higher efficiency models, like those rated C or D, often cost more upfront. You might decide that this freezer offers a good balance: a relatively affordable appliance with decent efficiency, especially if you do not intend to run several other large freezers or fridge-freezers at the same time.

If energy use is a major concern for you, you can still cut your running costs by placing the freezer in a cooler spot, avoiding overloading it with warm food all at once, and checking the door seal regularly.

Quiet Operation: 39 dB Noise Level

How Quiet Is 39 dB in Real Life?

The stated noise level is 39 dB, which is fairly quiet for a freezer. For comparison, normal conversation is around 60 dB, and a typical quiet library sits around 40 dB. So you are looking at a soft background hum rather than an intrusive buzzing sound.

If your home is open-plan or you are placing the freezer near your living area, this low noise rating is a real advantage.

Living with It Day to Day

You might notice a gentle hum when the compressor kicks in, but during normal use, it should blend into the usual background sounds of your home. If you are sensitive to noise, placing it in a corner, utility room, or hallway will make it almost unnoticeable.

This can be particularly useful if you live in a studio flat or small apartment, where your kitchen and living area are basically the same space.

Adjustable Thermostat: Simple Mechanical Control

Easy Temperature Control with a Knob

You get a mechanical thermostat with a control knob offering settings from 1 to 4. This design keeps things very straightforward; you do not have to navigate digital menus or remember complex settings.

You simply turn the knob to a higher number when you want colder temperatures, or a lower number when you prefer a gentler setting, depending on how full your freezer is and how often you open the door.

Adjusting for Seasons and Usage

In warmer months, or if your kitchen tends to get hot, you might want to set the freezer a little colder to maintain reliable -18°C storage. In cooler conditions or when the freezer is not packed full, you may be comfortable using a slightly lower setting to reduce energy usage.

If you want extra precision, you can place a cheap freezer thermometer inside for a week or so and adjust the dial until you hit the temperature you like.

Freestanding and Under Counter: Flexible Placement Options

Freestanding Convenience

The freezer is freestanding, so you don’t need a built-in housing or special furniture. You can simply position it where you need it, plug it in, and it is ready to go after the recommended standing time (usually a few hours after moving).

This makes it ideal if you are renting, since you can easily take it with you when you move without any complicated removal from cabinetry.

Under Counter Fit

Its 55 cm width and under counter height are designed for tucking under a standard worktop. That means you can use it as a neat part of your kitchen layout, rather than having it sit awkwardly in the middle of a room.

You might pair it with a separate under counter fridge or place it beneath a utility workbench to create a practical prep and storage area.

Design and Appearance: Simple, Clean, and Neutral

White Finish That Blends In

The freezer comes in white, which is still the most common colour for kitchen appliances. This neutral finish works well with almost any decor, from traditional to modern, and doesn’t draw too much attention to itself.

If your other appliances are also white, it will match easily; if not, white still tends to sit comfortably alongside stainless steel, black, or coloured units.

Practical Internal Layout

Inside, the layout is straightforward: three drawers stacked vertically. There are no complicated shelves or odd gaps to work around. This means you can use standard freezer bags, boxes, and containers without struggling to make them fit.

If you like to be extra organised, you can label your containers and use each drawer for a particular type of food, making it easy to find what you want even on busy evenings.

Everyday Usability: What It’s Like to Live With

Loading and Accessing Food

You access your food by pulling out the drawers, which slide forward to let you see and reach what’s inside. This is much easier than bending deep into a chest freezer and rummaging in the cold.

The drawers also help protect food from large temperature swings, since you are only opening a portion of the freezer at a time, rather than exposing the entire compartment when you open the door.

Keeping Things Clean and Tidy

The smooth internal surfaces and removable drawers make cleaning fairly straightforward. You can empty one drawer at a time, wipe it down with warm soapy water, dry it, and put it back.

As with any freezer, you should keep an eye out for ice build-up over time. If you notice thicker frost on the walls or drawers, giving it a proper defrost will keep it running efficiently.

Installation Tips: Getting the Best Performance from Day One

Positioning Your Freezer

When you install your freezer, you should:

• Leave enough space around the back and sides for air circulation.
• Keep it away from direct heat sources such as ovens, radiators, or strong sunlight.
• Use the adjustable front legs to make sure it sits level.

This helps the compressor work efficiently, reduces energy use, and stops vibrations or rattling.

Letting It Settle Before Switching On

If the freezer has been transported or moved, it is wise to let it stand upright for several hours (often around 4–6 hours) before plugging it in. This allows the refrigerant to settle properly.

Once you switch it on, give it time to cool down to freezing temperature before loading it fully. You can start with a few items, then gradually add more food after a few hours.

Who This Freezer Is Best Suited For

Ideal Users and Households

You will benefit most from this model if:

• You have limited space in a flat, small house, or office.
• You want an extra freezer alongside a main fridge-freezer.
• You prefer a simple, no‑frills appliance that just does its job reliably.
• You value quiet operation because your kitchen is close to your living or sleeping area.

If your household is one to three people, or if you simply like having a dedicated freezer without going for a massive chest freezer, this size is likely to be a very good fit.

When You Might Want Something Else

You might prefer a different model if:

• You need a much larger capacity for a big family or bulk meat storage.
• You want top-tier energy efficiency, with an A–D rated freezer to minimise running costs.
• You are looking for specific advanced features, such as frost-free technology, digital displays, or smart connectivity.

In those situations, you would be better off considering a larger upright or chest freezer, or a more premium model with advanced defrost and control options.

Pros and Cons to Help You Decide

Advantages You Will Appreciate

You get a number of practical benefits with the COMFEE’ RCU83WH2(E):

• Space-efficient 88L capacity that fits neatly under your counter.
• 4-star freezing performance, capable of -18°C suitable for long-term storage.
• Three transparent drawers for organised storage and easy visibility.
• Reversible door to adapt to different kitchen layouts.
• Adjustable legs to keep the unit level on uneven floors.
• Quiet operation at 39 dB, suitable even for open-plan living.
• Simple mechanical thermostat, easy for anyone to use.
• Neutral white finish that blends into most kitchens.

These strengths make it a strong option if you value practicality and quiet reliability over fancy features.

Limitations You Should Keep in Mind

No appliance is perfect, and you should be aware of a few potential drawbacks:

• Energy Class E is not the highest efficiency available, so if you focus heavily on energy savings, you might want a more efficient rating.
• Manual defrost is likely required, as with most compact freezers that are not specifically frost-free.
• Limited capacity compared to large upright or chest freezers, which might not be enough for big families or serious batch cooking fans.

As long as you understand these trade-offs and they fit your priorities, you are less likely to be disappointed.

Practical Usage Ideas: How You Might Make the Most of It

As a Dedicated Meal Prep or Batch Cooking Freezer

If you like cooking in bulk, you can turn this freezer into your personal meal bank. Use containers or bags for:

• Cooked stews, curries, and pasta sauces.
• Pre-portioned soups and casseroles.
• Marinated meats ready for quick cooking.

With three drawers, you can reserve one for ready-to-heat meals, one for raw ingredients, and one for treats or desserts.

As a Backup Freezer for Bargain Hunters

If you love stocking up during supermarket offers, this freezer gives you extra space for:

• Family packs of meat and fish.
• Bulk-bought bread and rolls.
• Frozen veggies, chips, and sides.

Instead of overloading your main fridge-freezer, you can keep everything neatly stored and make fewer trips to the shop.

Maintenance and Care for Long-Term Reliability

Keeping the Freezer Running Efficiently

To get the longest life and best efficiency from your freezer, you should:

• Avoid leaving the door open longer than necessary.
• Keep the drawers reasonably organised, so you’re not hunting around too long.
• Check the door seal now and then for cracks or dirt, and wipe it clean if needed.

A good seal ensures that cold air stays in and warm air stays out, which directly affects both performance and running costs.

Managing Frost Build-Up

Over time, a bit of frost or ice build-up on the walls or around the drawers is normal. When you notice a thicker layer (often more than a few millimetres), it is time to defrost.

You can remove the food temporarily (using cool bags if possible), switch off the freezer, and let the ice melt. Wiping the interior and drying it before switching it back on will help it work more efficiently afterwards.

Comparing It Mentally to Other Options

Against a Fridge-Freezer Combination

If you already have a fridge-freezer but constantly run out of freezer space, this under counter freezer can act as a supplement. You gain dedicated freezing capacity while keeping your existing fridge-freezer for everyday items.

Unlike buying another full fridge-freezer, this model focuses on just the freezing function, keeping the footprint and cost lower.

Against a Chest Freezer

Chest freezers usually offer more capacity for the price, but they:

• Take up more floor space.
• Are harder to organise and search through.
• Often don’t fit under counters or in neat built-in spaces.

If your main aim is compactness and convenience, this upright under counter design is likely more practical for you than a large chest freezer.

Is the COMFEE’ RCU83WH2(E) the Right Freezer for You?

When you look at the full picture, the COMFEE’ RCU83WH2(E) 88L Freestanding Under Counter Freezer is aimed at you if you want:

• A compact but useful capacity in a small or medium-sized home.
• A straightforward, no-nonsense appliance that just freezes well.
• Flexible installation with a reversible door and adjustable legs.
• Quiet, reliable performance without complicated controls.

You are not getting a feature-packed, high-tech freezer, but you are getting a practical, user-friendly, and space-efficient appliance that does its core job properly: keeping your food frozen at safe temperatures.

If your priorities are simplicity, flexibility, and decent storage in a small footprint, this model is very likely to serve you well for years, giving you the extra freezer space you need without taking over your kitchen.

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