Fridgemaster MC55240DEB 252l Fridge Freezer with Water Dispenser review

Are you thinking about whether the Fridgemaster MC55240DEB 252l Fridge Freezer with Water Dispenser fits your kitchen and lifestyle?

Quick overview

You’ll find this Fridgemaster is aimed at people who want a straightforward fridge freezer with a handy in-door water dispenser and a footprint that suits many standard kitchens. It balances usable capacity with compact external dimensions, making it a solid option for couples, small families, or anyone who needs a reliable second appliance.

Key specifications

Below is an easy-to-read breakdown of the core specs so you can quickly check whether this unit meets your space and performance needs. These are the manufacturer-stated highlights presented clearly so you can compare them with other models.

What this table tells you

You can immediately see the split between fridge and freezer capacity and judge whether those volumes match your shopping and meal habits. The dimensions are compact enough for many kitchens while giving a respectable internal capacity.

Capacity and layout

You get 158 litres of refrigeration space and 94 litres of freezer space, which gives a total of 252 litres to work with. That combination typically covers the needs of two to three people comfortably, or functions well as a main fridge for a small family with occasional top-ups.

You should think about how you store food: the fridge’s 158 litres will give you several glass shelves, salad crispers, and door storage for bottles and condiments, while the 94-litre freezer will commonly be split into drawers or compartments to keep things organised.

Dimensions and where it fits

With a height of 1743 mm, a width of 554 mm, and a depth of 558 mm, this unit is slightly narrower than many full-size models, which helps if you have a narrower kitchen gap. The depth is moderate, so check that you have enough clearance for doors to open and for ventilation behind the unit.

You should measure your installation space carefully, including any required clearance at the top and back for airflow, and leave a little spare room to allow the door to open fully and to carry out routine cleaning or maintenance.

Design and build quality

The Fridgemaster has a no-frills, practical design that focuses on usability rather than high-end styling. The finish and handle design tend to be understated, which helps it blend into many kitchens without drawing too much attention.

Build quality on budget-oriented models like this is usually solid but not premium. You’ll want to inspect door seals, shelf mounting points, and the general rigidity of drawers when you check one in person, since that impacts longevity and day-to-day convenience.

Exterior finish and handling

The exterior finish (typically black for this model code) is easy to wipe clean and tends to be fingerprint-resistant compared with stainless steel. The door likely has an integrated handle or a simple recessed handle depending on the production batch.

You should check whether the door is reversible if you need to switch hinge orientation; many similar models offer reversible doors but you’ll want to confirm this for your unit and to understand what tools are required for the change.

Interior layout and storage options

Inside the fridge section you can expect a few adjustable glass or plastic shelves, door balconies for bottles and jars, and at least one crisp drawer for fruit and veg. The freezer section’s 94 litres commonly comes as several pull-out drawers which make it easier to organise frozen food.

You’ll appreciate how adjustable shelving and clear drawers make the most of the internal space. Consider how you store tall items and whether shelf heights are adjustable to accommodate larger containers or dishes.

Cooling performance

This model is designed to provide steady, even cooling for the fridge compartment. It should be capable of keeping fresh foods at safe temperatures if you avoid overloading and allow good airflow around stored items.

You’ll get the best cooling performance by positioning the appliance away from heat sources (like ovens or direct sunlight) and leaving adequate ventilation around the unit. If you plan to store temperature-sensitive items, keep an internal thermometer handy to confirm steady temperatures during your first weeks of use.

Temperature control and stability

Expect an adjustable thermostat to control both fridge and freezer compartments, usually with simple mechanical dials or a basic electronic control. These controls let you tweak settings seasonally or when you load the fridge heavily after a big shop.

You should be aware that frequent door openings, stacking food too tightly, or blocking air vents inside the fridge can reduce cooling effectiveness. Proper loading, organised storage, and regular defrost (if the freezer isn’t frost-free) will help maintain stable temperatures.

Freezer performance

A 94-litre freezer is a moderate size and should be fine for storing weekly frozen groceries, pre-prepared meals, and some bulk purchases. The layout—typically drawers—makes it easier to sort items and avoid fishing around for what you need.

If you buy a lot of frozen goods or like to freeze large items (bulk meat, big batches of meals), you should evaluate whether 94 litres gives you enough practical space. Drawer organisation helps, but capacity is ultimately finite.

Frost management and defrosting

Some budget fridge freezers use manual defrost for the freezer, while others have frost-free technology. The product details here don’t explicitly say which system this unit uses, so you should check the retailer or manual if automatic defrosting is important to you.

You’ll save time and keep efficiency high if your freezer is frost-free, but if the unit requires manual defrosting, regular maintenance will prevent ice build-up and maintain cooling efficiency.

Water dispenser — convenience and questions to ask

The in-door water dispenser is a standout feature for an appliance in this class. You’ll appreciate chilled water without having to open the fridge or refill jugs frequently, especially during warmer months.

Before you buy, check whether the dispenser is plumbed to your mains water supply or uses a reservoir that you refill manually. Each approach has pros and cons: a plumbed dispenser gives continuous water without manual refills but needs plumbing connections, while a reservoir avoids plumbing but requires periodic top-ups and cleaning.

Filtration and hygiene

Many in-door dispensers either rely on a simple internal reservoir or include a filter cartridge. If having filtered water is a priority, confirm whether an inline filter is provided or available as an accessory for the model. If you have to use a reservoir, plan for regular cleaning to prevent bacteria or mould build-up.

You should also check the water delivery mechanism—some dispensers use a push-lever while others have a tap or electronic button. Consider how easy it is to fit different cup and bottle sizes under the dispenser spout.

Energy efficiency and running costs

This unit carries an E energy rating under the current A–G labeling scale. E sits in the mid-range; it’s not as efficient as the top A or B-rated models but it can still offer acceptable running costs if you use it sensibly.

You’ll want to ask the retailer for the appliance’s annual energy consumption in kWh/year if you need an accurate running cost estimate. With that figure you can calculate an annual cost by multiplying kWh/year by your local electricity tariff. Simple habits—keeping coils clean, allowing airflow, avoiding frequent door openings—also keep running costs down.

What the E rating means for you

An E rating means the fridge freezer will likely use more electricity than newer, higher-efficiency models, but the difference may be offset by a lower purchase price depending on where you shop. If energy bills are a top priority, compare kWh/year across models and consider a higher-rated appliance, but if your initial budget is limited you may accept E in exchange for a lower upfront cost.

Noise level and daily living

With a noise rating of 39 dB, you can expect this unit to be very quiet in normal operation. In practical terms, 39 dB is similar to a very quiet office or a soft whisper from a short distance, so it shouldn’t intrude on everyday life.

You’ll still notice sound during compressor cycles or defrost activity, but for most kitchens and open-plan living spaces this level is unobtrusive. If you need a totally silent unit for a studio or bedroom-adjacent kitchen, consider placing the fridge where the sound is least noticeable.

Installation and practical considerations

When you bring this fridge freezer home, you’ll want to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for siting and installation. Leave space for ventilation, make sure the floor is level, and read the manual for any recommended stand-off time before plugging it in—this avoids issues with the compressor oil settling after transport.

If your chosen location requires door reversal or plumbing for the water dispenser, check whether you or the retailer can perform those tasks. Reversible doors are a common feature on similar models, but the water dispenser may require a certified plumber if you want a mains-fed supply.

Moving, hooking up the water dispenser, and first use

You should move the unit upright and with care; tilting it excessively during transport can cause long-term compressor issues. If the dispenser is plumbed, hire a professional for the connection to ensure no leaks. For reservoir-style dispensers, fill and clean according to the instructions before first use to avoid taste or hygiene problems.

Plan to allow a few hours before putting food inside after initial power-up so the system can reach its set temperatures. Place an internal thermometer in the fridge for the first 24–48 hours to confirm proper cooling.

Maintenance and cleaning

Regular cleaning keeps the appliance hygienic and energy-efficient. Wipe the interior shelves and door gaskets, clean the drip trays and any drainage channels, and remove and clean the water reservoir if present. Dust the condenser coils at the back or bottom of the fridge to reduce compressor load and prolong life.

You should also inspect door seals periodically; if they become loose or damaged they’ll let cold air out and raise energy use. Replace any filters for the water dispenser on the schedule recommended by the manufacturer.

Pros — what you’ll likely enjoy

• Compact footprint with a useful 252-litre total capacity that fits many kitchens.
• In-door water dispenser gives chilled water quickly without opening the fridge.
• Quiet operation at about 39 dB, suitable for open-plan living.
• Practical internal layout with a common split between fridge and freezer.
• Reasonably priced relative to larger or feature-packed alternatives.

You’ll find these strengths make the Fridgemaster a practical choice for everyday refrigeration needs, especially if you want chilled water on demand.

Cons — potential drawbacks to keep in mind

• Energy rating E means higher running costs than the most efficient models.
• Full frost-free features are not stated clearly—manual defrost could be required for some units.
• The water dispenser setup (plumbed vs reservoir) should be checked before buying; you may need additional plumbing work.
• Build and finish are functional rather than premium, so don’t expect high-end materials or extras.

You should weigh these cons against price and features when deciding whether this model fits your priorities.

Who should buy this fridge freezer?

You should consider this model if you are a couple or small family who values a compact outer size, a usable internal split, and the convenience of a water dispenser. It’s a good fit for tenants, people in smaller homes, or anyone seeking a value-oriented main fridge.

If you run a large household, freeze lots of bulk items, or prioritise the lowest possible energy bills, you might want to compare this with larger capacity units or higher-rated energy appliances before deciding.

Comparisons and alternatives

When you shop, you’ll likely compare this Fridgemaster to similar capacity units from other brands. Look at models with A or B energy ratings if electricity cost is a priority, and check whether competitors offer frost-free freezers or built-in water filtration as standard.

You can also compare door configurations (top freezer vs bottom freezer vs side-by-side) depending on how you prefer to access your frozen foods. Fridgemaster’s compact dimensions are a plus, but if you want a larger fridge section you could look for 300L+ models that may offer more flexible fridge storage at the cost of footprint.

Buying checklist — what to confirm before purchase

You should confirm the following points so you don’t run into surprises after the sale:

• Is the door hinge reversible for your kitchen layout?
• Is the water dispenser plumbed to mains or does it use a refillable reservoir?
• What is the exact annual energy consumption in kWh/year?
• Is the freezer frost-free or manual defrost?
• Are spare parts and service available locally?
• What warranty period does the retailer or manufacturer include?

Having clear answers to these questions helps you avoid hidden costs or installation headaches.

Practical tips to get the most from the unit

• Position the fridge away from heat sources to keep energy use lower and cooling steady.
• Allow airflow around the appliance—don’t pack it into a tight cupboard without ventilation.
• Keep door gaskets clean to maintain a tight seal and prevent energy loss.
• Use the water dispenser regularly if it’s mains-fed to avoid stagnant water in pipes; if it uses a reservoir, clean and refill it often.
• Don’t overfill the fridge or block internal vents—air circulation inside is key to consistent cooling.

These simple habits will prolong the appliance’s life and improve day-to-day convenience.

Final verdict

If you want a practical, compact fridge freezer with an in-door water dispenser and quiet operation, the Fridgemaster MC55240DEB 252l is a sound choice for many households. It’s especially attractive if your space is limited and you appreciate the convenience of chilled water without the need for a separate dispenser or jug.

You should balance the mid-range energy rating against the lower purchase price and the convenience features. If energy efficiency is your top priority, look for higher-rated models, but if cost, size, and an integrated water dispenser matter most, this Fridgemaster is worth serious consideration.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Q: Is the water dispenser plumbed to mains or does it use a reservoir?
A: The product details don’t state this explicitly. You should check the retailer listing or the user manual to confirm whether your unit requires a plumbing connection or uses an internal reservoir.

Q: Is the freezer frost-free?
A: The specification provided doesn’t specify frost-free technology. If automatic defrost is important to you, confirm with the seller or in the user manual before buying.

Q: Can the door hinge be reversed?
A: Many similar fridge freezers offer reversible doors, but you should verify this for the specific model—check the retailer’s spec sheet or the installation instructions.

Q: How noisy is the fridge in real life?
A: The manufacturer lists a noise rating of 39 dB, which is very quiet and should not be intrusive for most kitchens or open-plan living spaces.

Q: What does an E energy rating mean for running costs?
A: E is a mid-range efficiency rating on the current A–G scale. It generally means higher running costs than A- or B-rated models, but precise costs depend on the appliance’s kWh/year figure and your electricity tariff. Ask the retailer for the kWh/year figure to calculate estimated running costs.

Q: Is this fridge suitable for a family of four?
A: It depends on your shopping habits. For a family that buys and stores moderate amounts of fresh and frozen food, 252 litres can work, but larger families or those who freeze bulk items may prefer a higher-capacity unit.

Q: What kind of maintenance does the water dispenser need?
A: If the dispenser uses a reservoir, you should rinse and clean it regularly. If it’s plumbed, check filters (if fitted) and follow the manufacturer’s filter replacement schedule. Always refer to the manual for safe cleaning procedures.

Q: How long should you wait before loading food after installation?
A: It’s common to wait a few hours after plugging the appliance in so the internal temperatures stabilise. Check the manual for the manufacturer’s recommended wait time, then use an internal thermometer to confirm fridge and freezer temperatures are in the safe range.

If you want, I can help you draft a short checklist to take to a store or an online comparison table with nearest alternatives and energy figures — tell me your priorities (energy efficiency, price, size, or features) and I’ll tailor the comparison for you.

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