Fridgemaster MTM48120E 48cm Fridge Freezer review

?Are we looking for a compact, reliable fridge freezer that fits a small kitchen or a student flat without compromising on essential features?

Product Overview

We think the Fridgemaster MTM48120E 48cm Freestanding Top Mounted Fridge Freezer offers a solid mix of practicality and simplicity for small households. It brings together a 124-litre total capacity, a top-mounted freezer, and a reversible door layout, making it an appealing choice when space and flexibility matter.

What’s included in the product name

We should highlight the full product name as listed to avoid any confusion: Fridgemaster MTM48120E 48cm Freestanding Top Mounted Fridge Freezer – 124-litre capacity with Adjustable Thermostat – Reversible Door – LED Lighting- 4 Star Freezer Rating – White – E Rated [Energy Class E]. We’ll use this exact label to keep things consistent throughout our review.

Key Features Summary

We find it helpful to summarize the standout features before going into details so that we know what to expect. The MTM48120E packs adjustable shelves, a salad crisper, LED lighting, a reversible door, and an adjustable thermostat into a compact footprint suitable for smaller spaces.

Quick bullet list

We like shorter lists to capture the essentials at a glance. Key items include:

• 124-litre total capacity
• Top-mounted freezer with 4-star rating
• Adjustable thermostat
• Reversible door to suit layouts
• LED internal lighting
• White finish, energy class E

Technical Specifications

We prefer to present the core specifications in a table for clearer comparison and quick reference. This table brings all of the main data points together so we can assess fit and functionality easily.

We include approximate splits for fridge and freezer because manufacturers often list total capacity; we should expect roughly a 70/30 split in similar models. We recommend checking the exact internal volumes if precise figures matter for your needs.

Capacity and Storage

We often want to know how much groceries we can realistically store, and this model’s 124-litre capacity gives us a practical sense of scale. For small households or those who shop modestly, this fridge freezer should cover weekly needs without feeling cramped.

Fridge compartment layout

We notice the fridge area typically includes adjustable shelves and door storage, which helps us tailor the interior to taller bottles or larger containers. The presence of a salad crisper is especially useful for keeping fruit and veg fresher and organized.

Freezer compartment

We appreciate the top-mounted freezer for quick access to frozen essentials, and the 4-star rating means it can store frozen food safely and make ice as needed. While this isn’t a large deep-freeze unit, the space is sufficient for basic needs such as frozen meals, ice packs, and a few bags of frozen vegetables.

Shelves and drawers

We think adjustable shelves are one of the most valuable features in a unit this size since they allow us to maximize space and accommodate taller items. The salad crisper drawer helps separate produce from other items, maintaining organization and reducing spoilage.

Door space and bottle storage

We often find that door shelves determine whether the fridge suits our beverage and condiment storage needs, and this model typically offers several door compartments for bottles and jars. Reversing the door gives additional flexibility for kitchens where the swing direction matters.

Design and Build

We prefer appliances that pair well with a variety of kitchen styles, and the Fridgemaster’s white exterior is a neutral choice that blends into most decor schemes. The compact dimensions make it suitable for spaces where a full-sized fridge would overpower the room.

Aesthetics and finish

We note that the plain white finish is understated and practical, resisting attention while remaining easy to clean. For many of us, this classic look is preferred in rental kitchens, utility rooms, and minimalist setups.

Compact footprint

We appreciate that the model measures H117 x W47.5 x D48.7 cm, making it easier to fit into tighter nooks than many standard fridges. This compact footprint is especially useful in student flats, small apartments, or secondary kitchen areas.

Reversible door

We find a reversible door to be a very practical feature because it allows the appliance to adapt to different room layouts and placement near walls or cabinets. Whether our kitchen opens to the left or right, we can set the door swing to suit our flow of movement.

Cooling Performance

We expect a compact fridge freezer to hold steady temperatures without large fluctuations, and the adjustable thermostat gives us the control to keep things cold enough while avoiding unnecessary energy use. This model’s cooling should be adequate for everyday preservation of dairy, deli items, and produce.

Thermostat control

We rely on the adjustable thermostat to fine-tune internal temperatures, which helps us keep fresh food at a safe temperature and reduce waste. The thermostat’s range allows for seasonal adjustments or usage changes when storing different types of food.

Temperature stability

We expect fairly consistent temperature stability for household items, though extreme ambient temperatures in poorly ventilated spaces could affect performance. Proper airflow around the unit and minimal door opening will help maintain desired temperatures more consistently.

Freeze performance

With a 4-star freezer rating, we know the freezer compartment is capable of long-term storage and can freeze fresh items if we set the temperature appropriately. This rating assures us that frozen goods will remain safely preserved at appropriate temperatures.

Energy Efficiency and Running Costs

We know energy ratings are important for monthly running costs, and the MTM48120E comes with an E energy class. While not the top tier for efficiency, it remains a typical rating for compact fridges in this size and price range.

Understanding Energy Class E

We recognise that Energy Class E represents moderate efficiency and that newer, higher-rated models (A++/A+ in previous rating systems) will be more economical. If we’re focused on long-term electricity savings, we should weigh the initial purchase price versus expected running costs.

Estimated electricity consumption

We can expect moderate electricity use from this model, with actual consumption depending on ambient temperature, frequency of door openings, and how full the fridge is. Keeping the unit well-ventilated and avoiding overfilling will help it run more efficiently.

Lighting and Interior Visibility

We appreciate good internal lighting for finding items without keeping the door open too long, and LED lighting provides bright, energy-efficient illumination. The LED should help us see contents clearly even when the fridge is full.

LED lighting benefits

We like LED lights because they give clear visibility, use less energy, and generally last longer than incandescent bulbs. This reduces maintenance while improving the user experience when retrieving items.

Light placement and effect

We usually prefer top-mounted or side-mounted LEDs that illuminate the main storage areas, reducing shadows and making it easier to spot items quickly. Effective lighting helps us minimize the time the door is open and keeps temperatures more stable.

Noise Level and Operational Smoothness

We prefer appliances that operate quietly, especially in open-plan rooms or small flats, and compact fridge freezers tend to be reasonably quiet. The exact noise level can vary, but the Fridgemaster is designed for household use and should not be overly disruptive.

Typical noise expectations

We expect a moderate hum and occasional compressor cycles, which are normal for refrigeration units, and these sounds will often blend into ambient household noise. If we’re sensitive to sound, placing the unit on a stable surface away from the bed or living area will help.

Vibration and leveling

We recommend ensuring the unit is level to prevent unnecessary noise or vibration, which can be corrected via adjustable feet. Stable placement also helps the door close properly and prevents uneven wear on hinges.

Installation and Setup

We find installation of freestanding units fairly straightforward, and the MTM48120E should be easy to place and connect in most homes. A few practical tips make the setup process smoother and protect the appliance’s performance.

Unpacking and placement

We advise leaving a small gap at the back and sides for ventilation and avoiding very hot or humid locations such as next to an oven or direct sunlight. Proper clearance helps the compressor work efficiently and prolongs the unit’s lifespan.

Leveling and door reversal

We recommend using a spirit level and adjusting the feet so the unit sits perfectly flat; this can prevent rattles and ensure a solid seal. Reversing the door is a common procedure that usually involves a few screws and hinge adjustments, but we suggest consulting the manual or a technician if we’re not confident doing it ourselves.

Initial cooling period

We suggest allowing the fridge to run empty for a few hours before loading it with food to reach a stable refrigerated temperature. This helps prevent overworking the compressor and ensures optimal food preservation from the start.

Cleaning and Maintenance

We believe routine cleaning keeps the unit running efficiently and prevents odors or mold growth. A few simple maintenance steps will extend the life of the appliance and keep it hygienic for food storage.

Interior cleaning

We recommend wiping down shelves and drawers with a mild detergent and warm water, avoiding harsh chemicals that could damage surfaces. Cleaning the crisper and door seals regularly will help avoid sticky residues and trapped food particles.

Defrosting the freezer

We suggest monitoring frost levels in the freezer; if frost becomes thick, a manual defrost may be necessary to maintain efficiency. Turning off the unit and allowing frost to melt in a controlled way is the safest approach, with towels ready to catch water.

Condenser and rear cleaning

We advise occasionally vacuuming or dusting the condenser coils at the back or bottom of the unit to remove dust buildup, which can impair cooling and increase energy use. Always unplug the appliance before performing maintenance tasks to ensure safety.

Practical Use Cases

We see the MTM48120E as a strong option for specific living situations where space and cost matter most. The model is particularly suited to single adults, couples, students, office kitchens, or as a secondary fridge in a garage or utility room.

Students and shared flats

We think this model hits the right balance for students who need reliable refrigeration without a large footprint or significant electricity costs. Its simple controls and manageable size make it suitable for moving or sharing between flatmates.

Small households and couples

We feel small households will appreciate the fridge’s compact capacity for weekly grocery runs, while couples who cook regularly might find the freezer a bit limited for bulk-frozen goods. It’s ideal when supplemented by freezer storage elsewhere if needed.

Office and secondary use

We find offices and secondary spaces benefit from compact, plain-fridge units, and the reversible door and simple controls make placement flexible for different layouts. The neutral white finish keeps it unobtrusive in communal areas.

Comparison with Similar Models

We like to compare products to understand relative value, and the MTM48120E generally competes with other compact top-mounted fridge freezers in the same capacity range. Differences often come down to energy ratings, internal layout, and additional features like frost-free technology or higher-efficiency compressors.

How it stacks up on energy and features

Compared to higher-rated energy class models, this unit will likely cost slightly more to run over time, but it often has a lower purchase price. Models with No Frost or more advanced insulation will have better long-term performance but come at a premium.

Price vs performance considerations

We typically balance purchase price, expected running costs, and the features we actually use day-to-day when choosing a fridge. If upfront affordability and essential functionality are our priorities, the Fridgemaster offers a compelling proposition.

Pros and Cons

We find listing pros and cons helps clarify whether this unit is the right choice for our needs. The following points reflect strengths and limitations based on the features and design.

Pros

We appreciate the following:

• Compact and space-saving dimensions ideal for tight kitchens.
• Reversible door gives placement flexibility.
• Adjustable shelves and salad crisper enhance organization.
• LED lighting improves visibility and energy efficiency.
• 4-star freezer rating suitable for long-term frozen storage.

Cons

We acknowledge some limitations:

• Energy Class E is not the most efficient rating available and may increase running costs.
• Freezer capacity is limited for families or large-batch freezing.
• Basic feature set without advanced frost-free technology.

Tips to Get the Best Performance

We recommend a few practical tips to optimize the appliance’s performance and lifespan based on typical user habits. Simple adjustments often make a measurable difference in daily convenience and efficiency.

Temperature management

We suggest setting the thermostat to a middle setting and then monitoring with a fridge thermometer to find the ideal balance for our food loads. Avoid setting it colder than necessary, which wastes energy without improving food safety.

Loading practices

We advise avoiding overpacking, as adequate airflow is crucial for even cooling; leaving some space between items helps preserve food more evenly. Organizing items by type and use frequency reduces door openings and keeps temperatures more stable.

Placement and ventilation

We recommend leaving adequate space around the unit and ensuring it isn’t placed in very hot or humid locations, which can increase energy use. Good ventilation also helps the compressor work efficiently and reduces wear.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

We often encounter similar questions when selecting a small fridge freezer, so we’ll address common concerns to help with decision-making.

How many shopping bags does it hold?

We note the manufacturer claims it can hold 10 bags of food shopping, which gives a practical point of reference for weekly shopping. That estimate is useful when deciding whether this capacity matches our lifestyle.

Can the door be reversed easily?

We believe the door is reversible and that most DIY-savvy users can perform the swap with basic tools, but we recommend consulting the manual or a technician if unsure. Properly reversing the door ensures a good seal and smooth operation.

Is the freezer suitable for long-term storage?

We confirm that the 4-star freezer rating means it is suitable for long-term frozen food storage, albeit with limited space. It’s good for essentials, ready meals, and smaller batches of frozen food.

Is the fridge noisy?

We find it generally produces a normal refrigerator hum and occasional compressor sounds; it’s not unusually loud for a domestic unit. Placement and leveling can reduce perceptible noise in sensitive environments.

Final Verdict

We feel the Fridgemaster MTM48120E represents a practical and budget-conscious choice for small households, students, and secondary kitchens where space and straightforward functionality are priorities. While it doesn’t claim top-tier energy efficiency or large freezer space, it balances useful features like reversible doors, LED lighting, and adjustable shelving with a compact build that should meet everyday refrigeration needs.

Who should buy it

We recommend this model to individuals or couples with modest refrigeration needs, students, or as a secondary fridge for office or garage use. If long-term energy savings or large freezer capacity are critical to us, we might look at higher-rated or larger models.

Closing thoughts

We believe the Fridgemaster MTM48120E is a sensible pick when affordability, simplicity, and flexibility matter most, and it offers the core features we expect from a compact fridge freezer. With reasonable care, proper placement, and mindful loading, it should serve us well for regular household cooling tasks.

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