SIA SFF17650W Combi Fridge Freezer Review

Have you been looking for a fridge freezer that fits your kitchen, keeps your food fresh, and doesn’t feel overcomplicated?

What You Get with the SIA SFF17650W

When you choose the SIA SFF17650W 50/50 Split Freestanding 252L Combi Fridge Freezer with Water Dispenser [Energy Class F], you’re getting a practical, family-friendly appliance with a clean white finish. You’re not just buying storage; you’re choosing how your kitchen works day to day.

This model gives you a 50/50 split between fridge and freezer, a built-in water dispenser, and thoughtful design touches like recessed handles, reversible doors, and adjustable legs, all aimed at making your life easier.

Key Features at a Glance

Before you look at whether this fridge freezer is right for your home, it helps to see the main features in one place. This way, you can quickly decide if it lines up with what you need.

As you look through each section, you can keep this table in mind to connect the features with how you’d actually use them in your kitchen.

Design and Appearance

The SIA SFF17650W is designed to look simple and clean, so it blends into your kitchen rather than shouting for attention. If you prefer appliances that feel neat and modern instead of flashy, this style will likely suit you.

The white finish gives your space a bright, fresh feel, and the tall, slim shape works particularly well in compact or narrow kitchens. At 176 cm tall, it gives you a decent amount of storage without overpowering the room or feeling oversized.

Recessed Handles for a Clean Look

Instead of bulky, protruding handles, this fridge freezer uses recessed handles built into the doors. You just slide your hand into the groove to open it.

This gives you a couple of advantages:

• You reduce the risk of knocking into handles in a small kitchen.
• You get a smooth, modern front that looks more streamlined.

If you want something that looks tidy and is easy to wipe down without lots of nooks and crannies, recessed handles are a nice touch.

Compact Footprint, Tall Storage

With dimensions of 54.5 cm wide and 55 cm deep, the footprint is quite modest compared to many standard-width fridge freezers. That’s helpful if:

• Your kitchen layout is tight.
• You have limited clearance between cabinets.
• You want to fit it into a smaller gap or in a rental space.

The 176 cm height means you still get plenty of vertical storage, so you’re not sacrificing capacity just because the appliance is slimmer.

Capacity and Interior Layout

With a total capacity of 252 litres, this fridge freezer is well-suited to singles, couples, or small families. If you shop weekly and like to keep a good mix of fresh and frozen items, it should feel comfortably sized.

Because it’s a 50/50 split, you get a balanced amount of space for both chilled and frozen food. That’s ideal if you use your freezer a lot rather than just for the occasional bag of peas and ice cream.

Fridge Section: 3 Glass Shelves for Flexible Storage

The fridge side gives you 3 glass shelves, which is a practical number for arranging your everyday items. Glass shelves are a plus because:

• They’re easy to wipe clean.
• They help stop spills from dripping to lower levels.
• They look a bit more premium than basic wire shelves.

You can typically adjust the shelf heights, so if you prefer to store tall bottles, large leftovers containers, or big salad bowls, you can shift things around to suit your habits.

You’ll likely also have door balconies for milk, sauces, and condiments (a common feature in combi fridges). These door areas are usually where you store items you reach for several times a day, making the fridge feel more organized and efficient.

Freezer Section: 4 Compartments for Easy Organisation

On the freezer side, you get 4 compartments. This layout is particularly helpful if you like keeping things sorted, such as:

• Vegetables in one drawer
• Meat or fish in another
• Leftovers and batch-cooked meals in a third
• Ice, desserts, or convenience foods in the fourth

Having separate compartments means you don’t have to rummage through a massive open space to find that one bag of frozen berries buried at the back. It also helps reduce warm air rushing into the whole freezer because you only open one drawer at a time.

Built-In Water Dispenser

One of the standout features of the SIA SFF17650W is the water dispenser built right into the fridge door. This is a big win if you want chilled water on hand without using up shelf space for bottles or jugs.

You can simply walk up, place your glass under the dispenser, and get cool water any time. Over a day, especially in warmer months or in a busy household, this can make a noticeable difference in how much water you drink.

Why a Water Dispenser Makes a Difference

A door-mounted dispenser changes how you use your fridge on a day-to-day basis:

• You don’t need to keep large bottles of water inside, which frees up shelf space.
• You always have access to cold water without needing ice cubes.
• You may find yourself drinking more water because it’s so convenient.

Most freestanding fridge freezers with built-in dispensers like this use a non-plumbed system with a tank or reservoir inside. That means you usually don’t have to worry about connecting it to your mains water supply, and you can position the fridge more freely.

You do need to refill the reservoir periodically, but that’s a straightforward task, and it keeps installation simple and flexible.

Electronic Temperature Control

Instead of a vague dial with numbers that don’t mean much, the SIA SFF17650W uses electronic temperature control. This makes it easier for you to manage how cold your fridge and freezer stay.

You typically get clearer, more precise adjustment, which matters for:

• Keeping fresh food at safe and stable temperatures.
• Avoiding freezing vegetables in the fridge by setting it too cold.
• Keeping frozen food properly frozen and avoiding partial thawing.

Why Temperature Control Matters to You

For everyday use, better control means:

• Your milk stays fresh longer.
• Your fruit and vegetables last more days before spoiling.
• Your frozen goods remain at consistent quality, especially if you store them for a while.

Being able to fine-tune the settings can also help you adapt to seasons. In summer you might want to nudge it slightly cooler for your drinks and fresh food, while in winter you can moderate it if your kitchen is already cooler.

Reversible Doors: Fit Your Kitchen Layout

The reversible doors on this fridge freezer give you flexibility, especially if you’re working around existing cabinets, walls, or other appliances. You can choose whether the doors open from the left or right, depending on where you place it.

This is particularly useful if you:

• Have a tight corner and need the door to swing away from a wall.
• Want to stand the fridge next to a cabinet and still have full access.
• Move into a new space and don’t know your exact layout ahead of time.

Why Reversible Doors Make Life Easier

You don’t want to be stuck with a door that always hits the wall or blocks a walkway. Being able to swap the hinge side means you can:

• Optimise the flow in your kitchen.
• Avoid awkward bending and stretching around open doors.
• Keep the door from slamming into furniture or other appliances.

You’ll usually need basic tools for the hinge swap, or you can ask an installer to do it when the appliance is delivered.

Adjustable Legs for a Stable Fit

Kitchens rarely have perfectly level floors, and that can cause appliances to wobble or lean. The adjustable legs on the SIA SFF17650W let you compensate for uneven surfaces.

You simply twist the feet at the front (and sometimes rear) to raise or lower the fridge freezer until it’s steady and level.

Why Levelling Your Fridge Freezer Matters

A properly levelled appliance helps you in several ways:

• The doors close and seal correctly, preventing cool air from escaping.
• Shelves stay flat, so items don’t slide or tip.
• The motor and compressor work under better conditions, potentially improving efficiency and lifespan.

Taking a few minutes to adjust the legs after installation is one of those small tasks that pays off every single day you use the appliance.

Energy Efficiency: Energy Class F

The SIA SFF17650W is labelled as Energy Class F under the updated EU energy rating system. This newer system is stricter, so many appliances that used to be rated A+ or A++ now fall into lower classes, including F.

That said, this is not the most energy-efficient option on the market, so it’s worth being aware of what that means for you.

How Energy Class F Affects You

In practical terms:

• Your running costs will be higher than with top-rated (A–C) models.
• If you’re particularly focused on reducing energy use, you may want to compare the annual kWh consumption with other fridges.

However, energy is just one part of the decision. You might still find that the balance of price, features (especially the water dispenser and 50/50 split), size, and appearance makes this a good overall choice for your needs.

You can also reduce running costs slightly by:

• Keeping the doors closed as much as possible.
• Not placing hot food straight into the fridge.
• Leaving enough space around the sides and back for ventilation.

Dimensions and Space Requirements

The size of the SIA SFF17650W makes it a strong option if you want good capacity without needing a wide gap.

• Width: 54.5 cm
• Depth: 55 cm
• Height: 176 cm

This combination gives you a tall, narrow appliance that can slot into tighter spaces than a typical 60 cm wide fridge freezer.

How to Check It Will Fit in Your Kitchen

To avoid frustration on delivery day, you’ll want to:

1. Measure the gap – Check the width, depth, and height of the space you plan to use. Allow a little extra for ventilation around the sides and back.
2. Check door clearance – Make sure there’s enough room for the doors to open fully without hitting cabinets or walls.
3. Consider the route in – Measure doorways, hallways, and any tight corners the delivery team needs to pass through.

Because this appliance is relatively slim, it should be easier to get into flats and smaller homes compared to bulkier models.

Everyday Use and Convenience

Beyond technical specs, you care about how this fridge freezer feels to live with every day. The SIA SFF17650W aims to give you a straightforward, reliable experience without unneeded complication.

You have:

• A simple, clean interior layout.
• A water dispenser for quick chilled drinks.
• Straightforward controls and practical door design.

Storing Your Weekly Shop

With 252 litres in total and a 50/50 split, this fridge freezer suits you if:

• You do a weekly or twice-weekly shop.
• You like having a reasonable stock of frozen food.
• You live alone, as a couple, or with a small family.

The fridge side should comfortably handle your fresh essentials like milk, yogurt, fruit, veg, and leftovers, while the freezer drawers can take care of meat, fish, batch-cooked meals, and convenience foods.

Cleaning and Maintenance

You’ll find cleaning easier with:

• Glass shelves that wipe down quickly and don’t snag cleaning cloths.
• Smooth recessed handles instead of large, detailed external handles.
• A relatively simple, uncluttered interior that doesn’t trap crumbs and spills.

For the water dispenser, you should get into the habit of:

• Refilling and occasionally rinsing the water reservoir.
• Wiping the dispenser area to keep it hygienic.

Regular maintenance like defrosting (if it’s not frost-free), cleaning door seals, and checking temperature settings will keep everything running smoothly.

Reliability, Warranty, and Peace of Mind

When you buy a major appliance, you want the reassurance that you’re covered if something goes wrong. The SIA SFF17650W comes with a 2-year parts and labour guarantee, which is a meaningful benefit.

This coverage means:

• You’re protected for both the components and the cost of repairs (subject to SIA’s terms and conditions).
• You can use your fridge freezer daily with a bit more confidence.

Making Use of the 2-Year Guarantee

To get the most from this guarantee:

• Keep your proof of purchase and any warranty documents.
• Register your product if the manufacturer offers registration for faster service.
• Follow basic care and installation guidelines so you don’t accidentally invalidate coverage.

If something does go wrong during the guarantee period, you can contact SIA’s support for guidance on repair or replacement under their policy.

Who This Fridge Freezer Is Best Suited For

Not every appliance suits every household. It helps to know what kind of user will get the most value from the SIA SFF17650W.

You’ll likely find this model a strong match if you:

• Have a small to medium-sized household (one to four people).
• Want a balanced 50/50 split between fridge and freezer space.
• Prefer a slimmer, taller appliance to fit a narrower gap.
• Like the idea of a built-in water dispenser but don’t want plumbing.
• Appreciate a simple, clean design that doesn’t overpower your kitchen.
• Value reversible doors and adjustable legs for flexible placement.

If you’re extremely focused on energy efficiency or need a very large-capacity fridge for a big family with bulk shopping habits, you may want to compare this with larger or higher-rated models.

Strengths of the SIA SFF17650W

To help you weigh your options quickly, it’s useful to see the main positives clearly laid out. These strengths can make a noticeable difference in day-to-day use.

Practical 50/50 Storage Split

You’re not stuck with a tiny freezer or an oversized one you don’t really use. The 50/50 division suits most people who:

• Use frozen foods regularly.
• Still want plenty of chilled space for fresh produce and drinks.

This balance gives you flexibility as your habits change over time.

Water Dispenser Without Extra Plumbing

The integrated water dispenser is a highlight because:

• You get chilled water on demand.
• You don’t have to give up fridge space for bottles and jugs.
• You usually avoid the hassle of plumbing the appliance into your water supply.

For many households, this is one of those small luxuries that quickly becomes something you feel you can’t do without.

User-Friendly Electronic Temperature Control

You don’t have to guess how cold your fridge really is. Electronic control helps you:

• Keep your food at safer, more consistent temperatures.
• Adjust easily for seasonal changes or different usage patterns.
• Avoid icy veg or soft, semi-frozen items.

It’s a simple way to get more reliable performance from your appliance.

Flexible Installation with Reversible Doors and Adjustable Legs

If your kitchen is awkward or compact, you’ll appreciate being able to:

• Swap door hinges to open from the other side.
• Level the fridge freezer so it stands straight and steady.

These details help you customise the setup to your specific space, instead of forcing you to redesign your kitchen around the appliance.

Clean, Modern Appearance

The combination of:

• White finish
• Recessed handles
• Slimline width

gives you a neat, modern look that fits easily into most kitchens. It doesn’t draw attention, which can be ideal if you prefer a calm, uncluttered style.

Limitations to Be Aware Of

Every appliance has trade-offs, and it’s better to know them before you buy. The SIA SFF17650W has a few points you should think through.

Energy Class F

Compared with top-rated models, this fridge freezer:

• Uses more electricity.
• Costs more to run over time.

If you’re especially conscious of your energy bills or environmental impact, you might want to compare its annual energy consumption (in kWh) with other options.

Capacity May Be Small for Large Families

At 252 litres, the capacity is decent but not huge. For big households or those who buy in bulk and store a lot of frozen food, you might find:

• The freezer drawers fill up quickly.
• The fridge area gets crowded after a large weekly shop.

If you have a large family or like to batch cook extensively, you may prefer a larger model or an additional chest freezer.

Fewer Advanced Features

The SIA SFF17650W focuses on practical basics rather than high-end extras. You don’t get:

• Built-in smart connectivity or app control.
• Sophisticated humidity-controlled drawers.
• Advanced ice makers beyond the water dispenser.

If you’re happy with a solid, no-nonsense appliance, this may not matter; but if you’re seeking all the latest technology, you might want something more feature-packed.

How to Get the Best from This Fridge Freezer

Once you have the SIA SFF17650W in your home, you can follow a few simple habits to make sure you’re using it effectively and extending its lifespan.

Positioning and Ventilation

After installation, try to:

• Keep a bit of space behind and around the appliance for airflow.
• Avoid placing it right next to heat sources like ovens or radiators.
• Ensure it’s level using the adjustable legs.

This helps the compressor work more efficiently and maintains consistent cooling.

Organising the Interior

To make daily use easier:

• Use the 3 glass shelves to separate raw items from ready-to-eat foods.
• Keep frequently used items at eye level.
• Group similar foods in the 4 freezer compartments (e.g., one for veg, one for meat, one for leftovers).

A small amount of planning when you first load the fridge freezer can save you time and reduce food waste.

Caring for the Water Dispenser

To keep the water clean and fresh:

• Refill the reservoir regularly rather than letting water sit for long periods.
• Rinse and clean the tank according to the manufacturer’s guidance.
• Wipe around the dispenser area to avoid water spots and residue.

This keeps everything hygienic and maintains the taste of your drinking water.

Comparing with Other Options (In General Terms)

While exact comparison depends on what else you’re looking at, it’s helpful to understand how this type of appliance typically stands relative to others.

You’ll usually find that:

• Higher energy-rated models (A–C) may cost more upfront but use less electricity over time.
• Larger-capacity models can be better for big families but take up more floor space and may be harder to place in small kitchens.
• No-frills models without water dispensers may be slightly cheaper but lose the convenience factor.

The SIA SFF17650W sits in a middle ground where:

• You get a balanced capacity and a water dispenser.
• You benefit from reversible doors and a slim footprint.
• You accept an Energy Class F rating and a more basic feature set in exchange for practicality and simplicity.

Is the SIA SFF17650W the Right Choice for You?

To decide if this is the right fridge freezer for your home, ask yourself a few simple questions:

• Do you want a slimmer, tall appliance that fits into a narrow space?
• Do you regularly use both fridge and freezer space in roughly equal proportions?
• Would you enjoy having chilled water on tap without plumbing work?
• Are you happy with a clean, simple design and practical features rather than advanced technology?
• Are you comfortable with an Energy Class F rating in exchange for the price and feature mix?

If you answered “yes” to most of these, the SIA SFF17650W 50/50 Split Freestanding 252L Combi Fridge Freezer with Water Dispenser is likely to suit your lifestyle well. You get a smart-looking, compact appliance that focuses on the essentials: good storage layout, everyday convenience, and user-friendly controls.

With its recessed handles, reversible doors, adjustable legs, electronic temperature control, and 2-year parts and labour guarantee, it aims to give you a reliable, hassle-free experience each time you open the door to grab your food or a refreshing glass of water.

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