A bar fridge freezer puts a fridge compartment and a freezer compartment in one cabinet. It suits home bars, small venues and any space where there is room for one appliance but not two. This guide explains how combination units differ from separate fridges and freezers, and what to check before you buy.
What is a bar fridge freezer?
A bar fridge freezer is a compact cabinet with two temperature zones. The fridge section holds bottles, cans and mixers. The freezer section holds ice trays, frozen garnishes or a small amount of frozen food. Some units split the cabinet into two doors, and some have a small freezer box inside the fridge door.
You will also see these units described as a bar fridge with freezer, a mini bar fridge with freezer, or a fridge freezer combo. For commercial split dual temperature cabinets, see combination fridge-freezers.
Combination unit or separate fridge and freezer?
A combination unit is usually the better fit when:
- floor space is limited and you only need a small amount of frozen storage
- you want ice and chilled drinks in one place, for example in a home bar or office
- you do not open the doors constantly
Separate appliances are usually the better fit when:
- you run a busy bar and the freezer compartment would be opened often
- you need more frozen storage than a compartment can hold
- you want to replace or service one appliance without losing the other
If you need serious frozen capacity, compare dedicated bar freezers and under bar freezers alongside bar fridges.
Check the freezer compartment
Not every small freezer compartment freezes food solid. Read the specification and look for the stated freezer temperature. Frozen food storage is commonly rated at around -18°C. If a unit only lists a "chiller" or "ice making" compartment, it may not be suitable for storing frozen food long term.
Also check:
- whether the freezer section is frost free or needs manual defrosting
- the freezer capacity in litres, not just the total capacity
- whether the freezer has its own door or shares the fridge door
Choose the right size
Capacity is listed in litres, but width, depth and height matter more for fitting the space. Before you buy:
- measure the space and compare it with the product's stated dimensions
- allow ventilation clearance around the cabinet as set out in the manufacturer's instructions
- check which way the door opens and whether it can be reversed
- allow room to open the door fully and pull out shelves
Domestic or commercial rating
Many bar fridge freezers are designed for home use. Venues that open the door many times a day should look for models designed for commercial use and check the stated ambient temperature rating and warranty terms. Warranty terms can differ between domestic and commercial use, so read them before you buy.
Power, noise and placement
Check the power requirements in the specification and make sure the outlet suits the unit. Allow for ventilation, keep the cabinet away from direct heat and sunlight, and clean the condenser coil as the manufacturer recommends.
Checklist before you buy
- Measured the space and compared it with the unit's dimensions
- Confirmed the freezer temperature and capacity
- Checked frost free or manual defrost
- Checked door swing and clearances
- Confirmed domestic or commercial rating, ambient rating and warranty
- Compared price and delivery to your postcode
Frequently asked questions
Can a bar fridge with a freezer store frozen food? It depends on the freezer compartment. Check the stated freezer temperature and capacity in the specification. A compartment that only makes ice may not be suitable for storing frozen food.
Is a bar fridge freezer good for a home bar? A combination unit saves space and keeps ice and drinks together, which suits many home bars. If you need a lot of frozen storage, a separate freezer may suit you better.
Do I need ventilation space around a bar fridge freezer? Yes. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for clearance. Built-in installations need ventilation that suits the cabinet's design.
Ready to compare? Browse bar fridges, glass door bar fridges and bar freezers, or request a quote for a multi-unit order.