Kühlschrank 70 Cm Breit 200cm Hoch

Willkommen! If you're planning a longer stay in Germany, settling into a new apartment, or even just considering a significant upgrade to your current kitchen situation, understanding common appliance sizes is crucial. Today, we're diving into the specifics of a particularly popular refrigerator size: the Kühlschrank 70 cm breit, 200 cm hoch – the refrigerator that's 70 centimeters wide and 200 centimeters tall.

This size range is a sweet spot, offering a generous amount of storage without being overwhelmingly large or requiring a complete kitchen remodel. For many, it strikes the perfect balance between capacity and footprint. Let's explore why this size is so popular, what to consider when choosing one, and where you might find the perfect model for your needs.

Why Choose a 70cm Wide, 200cm High Refrigerator?

There are several compelling reasons why this particular size refrigerator is a common choice in German households and a solid option for anyone setting up a new kitchen:

Sufficient Capacity:

The 200cm height provides ample vertical storage. This translates into more shelves, door compartments, and potentially even larger drawers for produce. This is especially beneficial if you enjoy cooking at home regularly and need to store a variety of fresh ingredients. 70cm of width helps to store even wider plates.

Space Efficiency:

While larger than compact models, a 70cm wide refrigerator is still manageable in many apartment kitchens. It offers a significant upgrade in storage compared to smaller options without completely dominating the space. Many older German kitchens were built with 60cm width in mind, but the extra 10cm often makes a huge difference and is easily accommodated.

Versatility:

This size refrigerator comes in a wide range of styles and configurations, from traditional single-door models to combination fridge-freezers (Kühl-Gefrierkombinationen) with the freezer at the bottom (popular in Germany) or at the top. You can find models with features like no-frost technology, adjustable shelves, specialized compartments for fruits and vegetables, and even smart features like Wi-Fi connectivity.

Energy Efficiency:

While size contributes to energy consumption, many 70cm wide, 200cm high refrigerators are available with excellent energy efficiency ratings (look for A+++ or higher). This is particularly important in Germany, where energy costs are relatively high. Investing in an energy-efficient model can save you money on your electricity bill in the long run.

Things to Consider Before Buying

Before rushing out to purchase your new refrigerator, take a moment to consider the following factors:

Measurements are Key:

Double-check your measurements! Even though "70cm wide, 200cm high" sounds straightforward, slight variations in manufacturing and installation can make a difference. Measure the available space in your kitchen carefully, paying attention to width, height, and depth. Also, consider the space needed for the door to swing open fully.

Door Swing Direction:

Speaking of doors, think about which direction you want the door to swing. Many refrigerators offer reversible doors, allowing you to adjust the opening direction to suit your kitchen layout. However, confirm this feature before buying.

Freezer Placement:

As mentioned earlier, Kühl-Gefrierkombinationen come with the freezer either at the top or the bottom. In Germany, bottom-freezer models are generally preferred because they place the refrigerator compartment at eye level, making it easier to access frequently used items. Consider your personal preferences and usage patterns when making this decision. Consider how often you use the freezer.

Features and Technology:

Modern refrigerators come packed with features. Decide which ones are important to you. Do you want no-frost technology to avoid manual defrosting? Are you interested in specialized compartments to keep fruits and vegetables fresher for longer? Do you need an ice maker or water dispenser (though these are less common in Germany)? Some models even have built-in cameras that allow you to check the contents of your fridge remotely using a smartphone app!

Energy Efficiency Rating:

Pay close attention to the energy efficiency rating. In Germany, you'll typically see ratings from A to G, with A being the most efficient. As mentioned before, aim for A+++ or higher to minimize energy consumption and save money. Look for the "Energieeffizienzklasse" label.

Budget:

Refrigerator prices can vary significantly depending on the brand, features, and energy efficiency rating. Set a realistic budget before you start shopping and stick to it. It's often worthwhile to invest in a slightly more expensive, energy-efficient model that will save you money in the long run.

Brand Reputation and Warranty:

Consider the reputation of the brand and the length of the warranty. Well-known brands often have a better track record for reliability and offer more comprehensive warranty coverage. A longer warranty can provide peace of mind.

Where to Buy a Refrigerator in Germany

You have several options when it comes to buying a refrigerator in Germany:

Electronics Retailers:

Large electronics retailers like MediaMarkt and Saturn offer a wide selection of refrigerators from various brands and price points. They often have showrooms where you can see the appliances in person and talk to sales representatives.

Department Stores:

Department stores like Karstadt and Galeria Kaufhof typically have a home appliance section with a selection of refrigerators.

Online Retailers:

Online retailers like Amazon.de and Otto.de offer a vast selection of refrigerators, often at competitive prices. However, you won't be able to see the appliances in person before buying.

Specialized Appliance Stores:

Smaller, specialized appliance stores may offer a more curated selection of high-end refrigerators and personalized service.

Discount Supermarkets (occasionally):

Keep an eye on discount supermarkets like Aldi and Lidl. They occasionally offer refrigerators as special promotions, often at very attractive prices. However, availability is limited, and the selection may be smaller.

Useful German Vocabulary

To help you navigate the process, here's some useful German vocabulary:

Kühlschrank: Refrigerator
Gefrierschrank: Freezer
Kühl-Gefrierkombination: Fridge-freezer combination
Breite: Width
Höhe: Height
Tiefe: Depth
Energieeffizienzklasse: Energy efficiency class
No-Frost: No-frost technology
Abtauen: To defrost
Regal: Shelf
Türfach: Door compartment
Schublade: Drawer
Garantie: Warranty
Anschluss: Connection (e.g., for water dispenser)
Stromverbrauch: Power consumption

A Few Popular Brands

While personal preferences vary, here are a few popular refrigerator brands in Germany known for their quality and reliability:

Bosch: Known for innovative technology and durability.
Siemens: Similar to Bosch, often offering sleek designs.
Liebherr: A premium brand known for high-quality materials and precise temperature control.
Miele: Another premium brand, known for exceptional durability and performance.
Samsung: Offers a wide range of models with innovative features and smart technology.
LG: Similar to Samsung, often offering good value for money.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a new refrigerator is a significant decision, especially if you're planning to stay in Germany for a while. A Kühlschrank 70 cm breit, 200 cm hoch can be a great option for many households, offering a good balance of capacity, space efficiency, and versatility. By carefully considering your needs and preferences, doing your research, and using the information provided in this guide, you can confidently choose the perfect refrigerator to keep your food fresh and your kitchen running smoothly. Viel Erfolg! (Good luck!)