Haier HSR5918DIMP review

Considering a roomy side-by-side fridge with built-in water and ice on tap — could this Haier model be the one that fits your kitchen and lifestyle?

Product Snapshot

You want a quick summary before getting into the details. This snapshot gives you the essentials so you can decide whether to keep reading or skip to a specific section.

Haier SBS 90 Series 5 Freestanding American Fridge Freezer with Water & Ice Dispenser, Side by Side, Total No Frost, D Class, 511L Total Capacity, Quiet, Platinum Inox, 91x66x177.5 cm – HSR5918DIMP is a large-capacity side-by-side fridge designed for households that need storage, convenience and quiet performance. It pairs practical features—like a plumbed water and ice dispenser and Total No Frost—with Haier’s Multi Air Flow and inverter compressor technologies for even cooling and efficient operation.

Key Specifications

You’ll want to see the main specs in one place to compare quickly with other models. Below is a concise breakdown you can refer to while reading the rest of the review.

Design and Build

You care about how it will look and fit in your kitchen, and how robust it feels day-to-day. This model presents a modern, stainless-steel-like finish that blends with contemporary kitchens and hides fingerprints better than glossy surfaces.

The side-by-side layout gives you full-height doors for both fridge and freezer sides, so you don’t have to bend to reach vegetables or frozen goods. Doors feel substantial and well-aligned; the 90° auto stop hinge is a thoughtful touch that prevents over-opening and protects nearby cabinets or furniture. Overall, the build feels solid and suited for frequent use.

Exterior Styling and Handle Design

You’ll probably notice the clean, minimalist lines and integrated handles that keep the look streamlined. The Platinum Inox finish is neutral and contemporary, matching a wide range of kitchen palettes.

Handles feel ergonomic and easy to grip even when your hands are full. The water and ice dispenser is flush with the door for a neat look, and the control panel is unobtrusive yet accessible.

Door Hinge and Access

The 90° auto stop hinge limits door opening to 90°, which is great if you have limited clearance or want to protect kitchen furniture. You’ll find it easier to access shelves when doors stop at a predictable angle.

The hinge mechanism also reduces the risk of over-rotating the doors, which helps protect the appliance and its surroundings over the long term.

Capacity and Storage Layout

You want usable space that matches how you shop and cook. With 511 L total capacity, this fridge is aimed at medium-large households who store big batches, large platters and bulk frozen items.

Storage is flexible with a variety of shelves, bins and door pockets. The side-by-side configuration offers more vertical storage for tall items and easier access to frequently used items, though you’ll sacrifice some shelf depth compared with a single-door fridge.

Fridge Compartment Features

You’ll find adjustable glass shelves that can be reconfigured to store tall bottles or party trays. Crisper drawers are roomy for fruits and vegetables, and the door pockets handle condiments and smaller containers well.

Lighting is positioned to give you good visibility across the main compartments, so you’re less likely to miss items at the back.

Freezer Layout and Organization

The freezer side offers multiple compartments and pull-out drawers that let you keep frozen goods sorted. Total No Frost means you won’t be dealing with ice build-up or manual defrosting, and you’ll be able to organize meat, pre-prepared meals and ice packs without containers sticking together.

Drawers slide smoothly, and the compartment sizes are sensible for long-term storage as well as quick access to daily frozen items.

Cooling Performance and Technology

You’re likely most interested in how well the fridge keeps food fresh and the freezer stable. This model’s Multi Air Flow system distributes air evenly across compartments, which helps maintain consistent temperatures and reduces hot or cold spots.

The Total No Frost technology removes the burden of defrosting by preventing frost formation in the freezer. That means more consistent performance, less manual maintenance and no energy waste from ice accumulation.

Multi Air Flow Explained

With Multi Air Flow, cool air vents are placed strategically to circulate air around every shelf and drawer. You’ll notice fewer temperature variances, especially when you open the doors frequently during busy times like meal prep or parties.

Better airflow also supports maintaining humidity and freshness of perishable items, so produce stays crisper for longer.

Total No Frost Benefits

You’ll appreciate not having to plan manual defrosting sessions. The Total No Frost system prevents ice from building up, so the freezer retains full storage capacity and operates at peak energy efficiency.

It also means stored items don’t freeze together, so you can remove a single package without thawing others.

Compressor, Noise and Energy Efficiency

You want an appliance that doesn’t dominate the background with noise and doesn’t spike your electricity bill. Haier uses an advanced inverter compressor to minimize vibration and keep noise low while improving energy efficiency and cooling response.

The model is rated D class for energy, which is a mid-range level. While inverter tech improves efficiency relative to non-inverter compressors, the appliance’s size and features (plumbed dispenser, ice maker) influence its overall energy class.

Quiet Operation in Daily Life

The inverter compressor reduces mechanical noise and running vibrations, so you’ll find the fridge quiet compared with older or standard-compressor models. It’s well suited for open-plan living, where loud humming can be noticeable.

Sound levels are comfortable for most households, though a quieter room right next to the appliance might still hear low-level operational noise.

Energy Class Considerations

You’ll find the D rating reflects a balance between performance and consumption for a large-capacity side-by-side. If your household prioritizes minimal energy use above all, you might compare this model to smaller units or A/B-rated alternatives. However, for the size and convenience of a built-in water/ice dispenser and Total No Frost tech, the energy performance is reasonable.

Water and Ice Dispenser (Plumbed)

A major convenience for many households is instant chilled water and on-demand ice. This model includes a plumbed dispenser, which means you’ll need a water connection for continuous supply. Once connected, you’ll enjoy chilled water and ice without refilling trays or jugs.

The dispenser reduces the need to open the fridge, helping preserve internal temperatures and improving energy efficiency. It’s ideal for busy homes, frequent entertaining, or when you want instant access to refreshment.

Ice Quality and Storage

Water-fed ice tends to be cleaner and clearer than manually filled trays because it’s continuously refreshed and filtered (if you install a filter). You’ll get a steady supply of ice cubes suitable for drinks and cooling needs.

The ice bin capacity is sensible for daily use; for heavy entertaining, you might still supplement with an extra ice tray or cooler.

Plumbing and Installation Notes

You’ll need a water line within reach and a proper installation to avoid leaks and ensure the dispenser functions reliably. Plumbing adds an installation step and potentially a small ongoing maintenance task if you choose to use a water filter.

If you prefer not to hard-plumb, check alternatives or ask your installer about options; some models allow manual fill with trays, but this one is designed for a plumbed connection.

Controls and User Interface

You want straightforward controls that are easy to use and adjust. The fridge uses a clear control panel for temperature and dispenser settings, allowing you to set separate fridge and freezer temperatures and manage the ice/water functions.

Controls are accessible and don’t require digging into complex menus, making daily use simple for everyone in the household.

Temperature Settings and Alerts

You can set exact temperatures for fridge and freezer separately to suit your storage needs. Some models have quick-cool or quick-freeze functions that ramp up cooling for new groceries or large items — useful after a big shop.

There are also convenience features like indicator lights for when the dispenser needs attention or when temperature settings change drastically, giving you peace of mind.

Installation and Dimensional Fit

You’ll need to check kitchen space and doorway access carefully because side-by-side fridges are tall and wide. The listed dimensions are 91 cm wide, 66 cm deep and 177.5 cm high, so make sure you have clearance for delivery, hinge swing and ventilation.

The 90° hinge helps if you have limited clearance next to cabinets, but you still need sufficient space for handles and the dispenser side. Measure your kitchen doorway, corridors and alcove before ordering.

Delivery and Door Clearance

Plan for professional delivery and installation if you’re connecting the water line. Doorway width and turning space are common issues; measure your path from the curb to the final location, including any staircases or lifts.

If you anticipate tight spaces, discuss removal of existing doors or temporary disassembly with the delivery team to avoid damage.

Maintenance and Longevity

You’ll want an appliance that’s easy to keep clean and maintain. Total No Frost means less internal cleaning in the freezer, and stainless-like finishes are easier to wipe down than glossy surfaces. Shelves and drawers are removable, which simplifies cleaning.

Regular maintenance includes changing water filters (if used), wiping dispenser components, and occasionally checking seals and door mats for wear. With proper care, the compressor and cooling components typically provide many years of reliable service.

Cleaning Tips

Use a mild detergent and soft cloth for exterior surfaces to avoid scratches. Remove and wash shelves and drawers periodically to avoid odours or buildup. Clean the dispenser tray and drip areas regularly to prevent mould or mineral deposits.

For deeper maintenance, vacuum the condenser coils (if accessible) periodically to maintain efficiency and prolong the compressor’s life.

Safety and Practical Features

You’ll appreciate built-in design choices that make daily life easier and safer. The 90° auto stop hinge reduces the chance of slamming doors and accidental collisions with nearby furniture. Shelves and drawers have smooth glides to prevent pinch points.

Child lock options on the dispenser can prevent accidental water or ice dispensing, which is helpful if you have small children.

Temperature Protection and Food Safety

Consistent temperatures combined with reliable sealing help safeguard your food. If a door is left open accidentally, some models will chirp or indicate the open-door status, reducing the risk of food spoilage.

The consistent cold in the fridge and stable freezer temperatures aid in prolonging the life of your groceries and avoiding waste.

Comparison with Similar Models

You’ll likely consider alternatives when choosing a large side-by-side fridge. Compared with other 500+ L side-by-side models, this Haier model stands out for its Total No Frost and Multi Air Flow combination and its integrated plumbed dispenser.

Some competitors may offer higher energy classes or slightly different layouts (e.g., bigger ice bins, more precise electronic controls), so weigh what matters most: energy rating vs. features and size.

How It Stacks Up

If you prioritize convenience (water and ice), ease of use (90° hinge) and maintenance-free freezing, this model is competitive. If your top priority is the lowest running cost regardless of size and features, you might compare energy-efficient or A-rated alternatives.

Also consider service network and warranty options in your region—Haier typically has broad coverage in many markets, but local support can vary.

Pros and Cons

You want a clear list of the strong and weak points to make a quick decision. Below are the main advantages and trade-offs to consider.

Pros:

• Large 511 L total capacity suitable for families.
• Total No Frost eliminates manual defrosting.
• Multi Air Flow provides consistent temperature distribution.
• Built-in plumbed water and ice dispenser for daily convenience.
• Quiet operation thanks to inverter compressor technology.
• 90° auto stop hinge protects surroundings and simplifies access.
• Modern Platinum Inox finish that blends with many kitchens.

Cons:

• Energy class D is not the most efficient available for a large fridge.
• Requires plumbed water connection for full dispenser functionality.
• Side-by-side configurations can be less deep than some single-door fridges, affecting some storage arrangements.
• Large footprint requires careful measuring and planning for delivery and installation.

Who Should Buy This Fridge?

You’ll find this fridge well suited if you:

• Have a medium to large household and need generous storage.
• Value the convenience of a plumbed water and ice dispenser.
• Prefer a model that minimizes maintenance with Total No Frost.
• Want quieter operation in an open-plan kitchen.
• Need a robust, stylish appliance that integrates with modern decor.

Avoid this model if you:

• Want the absolute lowest energy consumption per year regardless of size.
• Don’t have easy access to a water connection and prefer manual-fill dispensers.
• Have narrow doorways or tight installation spaces that can’t accommodate the dimensions.

Troubleshooting and Common Questions

You’ll likely have questions once you own the fridge. Here are common issues and simple checks to resolve them.

• Dispenser not delivering water: Check your water supply connection and filter (if fitted), and ensure the water tap is open.
• Ice production slow: Verify the water line is connected correctly, and confirm the ice maker is switched on. Cold ambient temperatures near the appliance could also affect ice production.
• Door not sealing: Clean the gasket and check for obstruction. If the door still won’t seal, ask a technician to check alignment or hinge settings.
• Excessive noise: Make sure the fridge is level and positioned on stable flooring. Check that it isn’t against the wall in a way that causes vibration.

Final Verdict

You want a concise recommendation after reading all the details. This Haier side-by-side fridge is a solid choice if you need a roomy, feature-rich appliance that minimizes upkeep and delivers consistent cooling. The Total No Frost, Multi Air Flow and plumbed dispenser combine for daily convenience, while the inverter compressor keeps noise at an acceptable level.

Energy-wise, it sits in the mid-range with a D rating, so if electricity cost is a critical decision factor you may want to compare alternatives. For most buyers who prioritize storage, convenience and low maintenance, Haier HSR5918DIMP offers an attractive balance of features and value.

Additional Notes Before You Decide

You’ll want to confirm delivery logistics, the presence of a water inlet near the installation site, and local energy cost implications. Also check warranty length and what’s covered—components like the compressor sometimes have extended warranties or specific service terms.

If you plan entertaining often or have a very large household, consider how often you’ll use the ice maker and whether the ice bin capacity matches your needs. For most family kitchens, this model checks the right boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

You’ll likely want quick answers. Below are straightforward responses to common queries.

Q: Does this model require permanent plumbing for the water dispenser? A: Yes. The plumbed dispenser requires a water connection for continuous chilled water and ice production.

Q: How often do I need to defrost the freezer? A: You won’t need to manually defrost the freezer thanks to Total No Frost technology.

Q: Is the inverter compressor repairable or replaceable? A: Compressors can be serviced or replaced by qualified technicians. Check your warranty and local service terms for details.

Q: Can the doors be reversed or swapped to open from the other side? A: Side-by-side fridges typically aren’t designed for easy door reversal. The hinge and dispenser placement usually fix each door’s side.

Q: Will it fit through a standard doorway? A: Check the provided dimensions (91 x 66 x 177.5 cm) against your doorway. Measure the full path from delivery van to installation spot including turns.

If you want, I can help you compare this Haier model with two or three specific competitor fridges you’re considering, or provide a condensed checklist to measure your kitchen and delivery path before purchase. Which would you prefer?

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.