Fridgemaster MC55240ES Fridge Freezer review

Looking for a fridge freezer that actually fits your kitchen and your life?

We know how overwhelming it can feel to choose a new fridge freezer, especially when we need to balance size, storage, energy use and budget. The Fridgemaster MC55240ES 55cm Freestanding 252L 50/50 Fridge Freezer – LED Lighting, Silver – E Rated [Energy Class E] aims to tick a lot of boxes in a relatively compact, affordable package.

In this review, we walk through what it offers, how it performs in everyday use, and who it suits best, so we can decide together if it deserves a place in our kitchen.

Overview of the Fridgemaster MC55240ES

The Fridgemaster MC55240ES is a freestanding 50/50 fridge freezer with a 252L total capacity and a slim 55cm width, finished in modern silver. It is designed for small to medium households that want solid storage capacity without needing a huge kitchen.

We see this model as a practical, fuss-free option: not loaded with fancy smart features, but focused on giving us space, flexibility and reasonable efficiency for everyday family use.

Key Specifications at a Glance

Before we go into details, it helps to see the main specs laid out clearly. This way, we can quickly check whether it matches our space and needs.

These specs position the MC55240ES as a slim, tall unit with good storage for its footprint, aimed at households that need a proper freezer as much as a fridge.

Design and Build Quality

The design of a fridge freezer matters every day: we look at it constantly, we open it dozens of times a week, and it needs to feel solid and reassuring. The Fridgemaster MC55240ES takes a simple, clean approach.

We get a sleek silver finish that blends easily with most modern kitchens. It is not flashy, but it looks neat and contemporary, and it tends to pair well with stainless steel or grey appliances.

Exterior Look and Feel

The front is plain and uncluttered, with no external water dispenser or display. For some of us that is a plus—there is less to break, clean or maintain, and it gives a more minimal appearance.

The handles are built into the door edges rather than sticking out. This saves a little space in front and reduces the risk of bumping into traditional protruding handles in tighter kitchens.

Build Quality and Materials

While this is clearly not a premium high-end model, the overall build feels solid enough for daily family use. The doors open and close with a consistent action, the seals feel snug, and the casing does not feel flimsy.

Inside, we typically find glass shelves, plastic door balconies, and standard plastic drawer components. They are practical and easy to wipe down. As with most appliances at this price point, we should not expect ultra-thick glass or luxury fittings, but for normal home use, they do the job well.

Dimensions and Fit in the Kitchen

Space is often the biggest deciding factor, so the dimensions matter a lot. The MC55240ES is deliberately compact in width and depth, but relatively tall.

• Height: 174.3 cm
• Width: 55.4 cm
• Depth: 55.8 cm

These measurements make it a strong option for:

• Narrow kitchen layouts
• Galley kitchens
• Flats or smaller homes where every centimetre counts

We need to remember to allow a bit of space around the unit for ventilation—especially at the back and top—so it can run efficiently.

Measuring Up for Proper Installation

Before we commit, it is worth checking a few things in our kitchen:

• Width clearance: Ensure we have a bit more than 55.4 cm to slide it in comfortably.
• Door opening space: Make sure the doors can swing open fully without hitting walls or units.
• Depth with doors open: With a depth of 55.8 cm, it is fairly shallow, but open doors will extend further; we should check against nearby worktops.

If we are tight on width but can accommodate height, this size combination works particularly well. It gives us decent capacity without feeling like the fridge is swallowing the room.

Storage Capacity: 252L Total (Around 14 Bags of Shopping)

The manufacturer states that the 252L capacity equates to about 14 bags of food shopping. This gives us a rough sense of how much we can fit inside after a big supermarket trip.

We can think of it like this:

• Good for couples who cook at home regularly
• Suitable for small families (2–4 people) if we shop once or twice a week
• Perhaps a bit small for large families that prefer to bulk-buy and freeze lots of food, but still workable if we are organised

50/50 Split: Balanced Fridge and Freezer Space

The 50/50 ratio means the fridge and freezer each get roughly half the overall height. This is ideal when we rely on our freezer almost as much as our fridge.

If we often freeze homemade meals, buy frozen vegetables, or like to stock up on frozen meat or fish, having that generous dedicated freezer space becomes a real advantage.

Fridge Compartment: Everyday Practicality

The fridge section is where we will be reaching most often, so layout and lighting can really affect daily use. Fridgemaster focuses on usable, simple organisation instead of ultra-flexible systems.

Shelves and Layout

We typically get several glass shelves that can be repositioned in different slots to adjust the height. This lets us:

• Make room for tall bottles or jugs
• Arrange shelves so we can keep leftovers, lunch boxes, and fresh produce in convenient spots

Glass shelves help contain any spills, making clean-up easier. We can just lift out the shelf, wash it, and put it back.

Door Storage

Door balconies are ideal for:

• Bottles of milk, juice or fizzy drinks
• Jars and condiments
• Butter, cheese, sauces

We like that door storage frees up shelf space, making the interior feel less cluttered and more organised.

Freezer Compartment: Four-Star Rated Freezer

The freezer on the MC55240ES comes with a four-star rating, which is important if we care about food quality and long-term storage.

A four-star freezer can:

• Freeze fresh food effectively
• Store frozen food safely for long periods (often up to 12 months, depending on the food type)
• Maintain a low enough temperature to preserve nutrients and flavour

Freezer Drawers and Organisation

While the exact internal layout can vary slightly, we normally get several pull-out drawers that let us separate different types of frozen food. For example, we might use:

• Top drawer for ice cream, frozen fruit and quick snacks
• Middle drawer for meat and fish
• Bottom drawer for vegetables, batch-cooked meals, or bulkier items

Pull-out drawers are especially handy because we can slide them out to see what is at the back without bending down too much or rummaging through piles of bags.

Interior LED Lighting: Bright and Efficient

One of the nice touches in this model is the interior LED lighting. It might sound like a minor detail, but once we are used to a bright, evenly lit fridge, it is hard to go back.

LED lighting offers several benefits:

• Bright and clear: We can see into the corners and at the back of shelves, so food is less likely to be forgotten and wasted.
• Energy-efficient: LEDs use less power than traditional bulbs and produce less heat, which helps maintain the internal temperature.
• Long-lasting: LEDs generally last longer, meaning fewer replacements and less hassle.

In everyday use, this simply means we are not squinting into a dimly lit fridge, and midnight snacks are easier to locate.

Reversible Doors: Flexible for Any Kitchen Layout

One of the most practical features on the MC55240ES is the reversible doors. This means we can choose whether the doors open from the left or from the right, depending on our kitchen layout.

Reversible doors help us:

• Position the fridge freezer in a corner without blocking cupboards
• Align door opening direction with worktop flow
• Adjust to awkward layouts where standard right-hand opening could be inconvenient

We or an installer will need to swap the hinges carefully according to the instructions, but once set up, it feels natural and makes everyday access far more convenient.

Energy Efficiency: Energy Class E

The Fridgemaster MC55240ES has an Energy Class E rating under the newer European energy label system. With the updated scale (A being most efficient, G being least), many modern appliances that used to be rated A or A+ now fall into the B–E range.

So while an E rating is not the most efficient on paper, it is:

• Typical for many affordable fridge freezers
• Still reasonably efficient compared to older models from years ago

If we are upgrading from an older appliance, we may still see some energy savings, especially when combined with LED lighting and modern insulation.

Balancing Cost and Efficiency

If we prioritise absolute top-tier energy efficiency for environmental or cost reasons, we might look for higher-rated models, usually at a higher price. However, we often pay more upfront for that better rating.

The MC55240ES positions itself more as a value-focused choice—solid on performance and capacity, without the premium cost of high-end energy labels.

Noise Levels and Everyday Use

Most of us want our fridge freezer to be as quiet as possible, especially in open-plan kitchens or small flats where the appliance is close to living areas.

While the exact decibel rating is not specified in the provided details, similar Fridgemaster freestanding models usually run at moderate, background noise levels that blend into general household sounds.

In normal use, we can expect:

• A low hum while the compressor runs
• Occasional slightly louder sounds when it starts or stops
• No constant rattling or intrusive noise under normal conditions

If our kitchen is near bedrooms or in a studio flat, this is still an important consideration, but this class of appliance is typically designed to remain unobtrusive.

Installation and Setup

Because the MC55240ES is a freestanding model, installation is much simpler than with integrated units. We do not need to build it into cabinetry, and repositioning it in future is much easier.

Here is what we generally need to do:

1. Unpack and position the appliance, leaving enough space behind and above for ventilation.
2. Adjust the feet so it stands level, which helps doors close properly.
3. Decide on door handing: If we want the doors to open the opposite way, we follow the reversible door instructions.
4. Wait before switching on: After moving, we should let it stand upright for several hours (often 4–6 hours) to allow the coolant to settle.
5. Power on and cool: Turn it on and let it reach operating temperature before loading in food.

Once it is settled and running, we can start organising shelves and drawers to suit our preferences.

Daily Usability and Ergonomics

Beyond specs, what really matters is how the fridge freezer feels in daily life. The MC55240ES is built for simple, intuitive use rather than advanced customisation.

Reaching Food and Adjusting Shelves

The 174.3 cm height is tall but still reachable for most adults. The top shelves in the fridge might be slightly high for shorter users, but generally still accessible. We can put less-used items up higher and keep daily essentials at eye level.

Adjustable shelves allow us to:

• Maintain a dedicated shelf for leftovers and meal prep
• Make a taller space when we have big pots, bottles or birthday cakes
• Organise by food type (dairy, meat, veg, ready-to-eat items)

Cleaning and Maintenance

Glass shelves and smooth internal surfaces are relatively easy to wipe down. If we make a habit of occasional quick cleans, we can stay on top of spills and avoid odours.

Defrosting requirements may depend on the exact technology used (the details provided do not specify frost-free or manual defrost). If manual, we will need to plan occasional defrost sessions in the freezer to remove built-up ice.

Strengths of the Fridgemaster MC55240ES

It helps to highlight where this fridge freezer really shines, especially compared to many budget or mid-range alternatives.

1. Compact Width, Good Capacity

The 55.4 cm width is narrower than many standard fridge freezers, yet we still get 252L of storage. For tighter kitchens, this balance of small footprint and decent volume is a real advantage.

2. Proper 50/50 Split

We are not sacrificing freezer space for fridge space or vice versa. If we depend heavily on frozen food, the equal split helps a lot, particularly for batch cooking and families that like to keep plenty of frozen staples on hand.

3. Four-Star Freezer for Long-Term Storage

We can safely store food for months without worrying about subpar freezing performance. This brings peace of mind for bulk buying and freezing leftovers.

4. LED Lighting for Visibility and Efficiency

We get clear, bright visibility across the interior, which reduces food waste and feels more pleasant to use. LED also keeps energy use down compared to old-style bulbs.

5. Reversible Doors for Flexible Placement

We can adapt the door opening direction to our exact kitchen layout. In smaller spaces or awkward corners, this can make the difference between a convenient and a frustrating appliance.

Limitations and Considerations

No appliance is perfect, and it is helpful to recognise where the MC55240ES might not be ideal for every household.

1. Energy Rating is Not the Highest

With an Energy Class E, this model is not among the most energy-efficient on the market. It is acceptable and often typical for its price range, but if we are extremely focused on low running costs, we might prefer a model with a better rating, at a likely higher price.

2. Not a Premium Feature Set

We do not get:

• Smart connectivity
• Built-in ice or water dispensers
• Fancy temperature zones, wine racks or advanced humidity controls

If we want these extras, we would need to look at more expensive models. The MC55240ES is clearly more about simple practicality than high-tech features.

3. May Be Small for Large, Busy Households

For bigger families that cook often, host guests frequently, or like to keep lots of leftovers and bulk purchases, 252L might feel tight. It is workable with good organisation, but something larger might be more comfortable in those cases.

Who Is the Fridgemaster MC55240ES Best For?

To decide whether this model fits us, we should think about our household size, habits and kitchen layout.

We think the MC55240ES suits:

• Couples and small families (2–4 people): Enough space for weekly shopping and a well-stocked freezer.
• Smaller kitchens: Narrow width and moderate depth fit nicely in tight spaces.
• Budget-conscious buyers: Focused on practicality and value rather than luxury features.
• People who use their freezer regularly: Balanced 50/50 split and four-star rating are great for freezing and long-term storage.

It is less ideal for:

• Large families who need very large fridge and freezer sections.
• Households wanting premium or smart features like Wi-Fi, touch displays, or built-in dispensers.
• Buyers prioritising top-level energy efficiency who are ready to pay more upfront for an A–C rated appliance.

Real-World Scenario Examples

To make the fit clearer, we can picture a few usage scenarios and see how this fridge freezer would work in each.

Scenario 1: Young Couple in a Flat

We imagine a couple living in a flat with a small galley kitchen. They cook at home, do a big shop once a week, and like to have some frozen pizza, vegetables and leftovers for busy nights.

• The 55.4 cm width fits their narrow kitchen.
• The 50/50 split gives them enough freezer space for frozen meals.
• The 252L capacity handles their weekly shop comfortably.

In this scenario, the MC55240ES makes a lot of sense—good capacity without overwhelming the kitchen.

Scenario 2: Small Family with Two Kids

A household of four, with two school-age children, cooks most dinners at home. They keep milk, snacks and fruit in the fridge, plus frozen veg, chips and chicken in the freezer.

• The fridge will be fairly full but manageable with smart organisation.
• The four-star freezer allows safe long-term storage for bulk buys.
• Reversible doors help position the fridge freezer near a worktop for easy lunch prep.

It might feel a little tight around busy times like holidays, but for normal weeks, it can handle the load.

Scenario 3: Large Family That Bulk Buys

Now we picture a family of five or six, buying in bulk from wholesalers, storing lots of frozen food, and needing space for big pots and leftovers.

• The 252L capacity may feel limiting over time.
• They might find the freezer packed to the brim frequently.
• A larger-capacity model might be more comfortable in the long term.

In this kind of home, the MC55240ES can still work, but it may be better as a second fridge freezer or a short-term solution.

Comparing with Other Options (Conceptually)

Even without naming specific competing models, we can think about how this fridge freezer compares in general terms.

Compared to smaller under-counter units:

• The MC55240ES offers far more capacity and equal freezer space, ideal for families rather than just one person.

Compared to larger 60cm-wide fridge freezers:

• It saves precious width while still giving a respectable volume.
• Some larger models may have more features or capacity, but at the cost of requiring more space.

Compared to high-end premium models:

• It lacks smart tech and some advanced compartments.
• However, it typically costs significantly less and still meets essential needs well.

So, in many cases, it stands as a mid-range, practical option: larger than compact units, smaller than bulky giants, and more affordable than luxury appliances.

Pros and Cons Summary

To make the decision easier, here is a concise summary of strengths and trade-offs.

Pros

• Slim width (55.4 cm) ideal for narrow kitchens
• 252L capacity suitable for couples and small families
• 50/50 fridge–freezer split for balanced storage
• Four-star freezer suitable for long-term freezing
• Interior LED lighting for bright, efficient illumination
• Reversible doors for flexible installation in different kitchen layouts
• Simple, modern silver finish fits most kitchen styles
• Freestanding design makes installation and repositioning easier

Cons

• Energy Class E is not the most efficient rating available
• No smart features or advanced cooling zones
• May feel a bit small for large households or heavy bulk buyers
• Not designed as a premium or luxury appliance in terms of materials and extras

Tips to Get the Most from the Fridgemaster MC55240ES

If we decide this is the right model, we can make it work even better for us with a few simple habits.

Organise by Zones

We can divide the interior into zones to reduce wasted space and keep food fresh longer:

• Top fridge shelf: Ready-to-eat food, leftovers and dairy
• Middle shelves: Everyday items like cooked meats, yoghurts, meal prep containers
• Bottom shelf or drawers: Fresh meat and fish (if not kept in a separate compartment), vegetables and fruit
• Door shelves: Drinks, condiments, butter and jars

Rotate and Label in the Freezer

Because the freezer is deep and drawer-based, food can sometimes get forgotten at the back. We can:

• Label containers with the date and contents
• Place newer items behind older ones to follow a “first in, first out” approach
• Use one drawer for quick-access items and one for long-term storage

Maintain Good Ventilation

Position the fridge freezer so:

• There is space behind it for air circulation
• The top is not completely boxed in with no room to breathe
• It is not pressed directly against a wall blocking the heat output

This can help the appliance run more efficiently and prolong its lifespan.

Our Overall Verdict

The Fridgemaster MC55240ES 55cm Freestanding 252L 50/50 Fridge Freezer – LED Lighting, Silver – E Rated [Energy Class E] is a solid, straightforward fridge freezer that focuses on what most of us actually need:

• Enough space for a couple or small family
• A proper freezer with four-star performance
• A slim, tall footprint for narrow kitchens
• Clear LED lighting and reversible doors for flexible, everyday use

We see it as a practical choice for households that want reliable cold storage without paying for premium extras. It may not win awards for cutting-edge features or top-tier energy ratings, but it offers a sensible balance of capacity, flexibility, and affordability.

If we are working with limited kitchen space, need a good-sized freezer as well as a fridge, and are happy with a simple, modern, no-fuss design, the Fridgemaster MC55240ES is very much worth considering as our next fridge freezer.

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