Fridgemaster MC55240DES
Fridgemaster
Kitchen appliances rarely get exciting, and that's precisely the point with the Fridgemaster MC55240DES. This is a fridge freezer built for the household that just wants reliable cold storage, a splash of style, and a feature or two that make daily life easier — without the price tag of a premium American-style model. It won't turn heads with smart connectivity or frost-free convenience, but for renters, first-time buyers, and anyone furnishing a kitchen on a sensible budget, it covers the essentials competently. Here's what you actually need to know before it lands in your kitchen.
Design, Build, and How It Fits Your Kitchen
The MC55240DES follows a classic freestanding silhouette: a single door for the fridge compartment up top, with the freezer positioned at the bottom — the layout most people are used to, and one that keeps the food you reach for most often (fresh produce, dairy, leftovers) at eye level rather than down by your ankles.
Standing at just over 174cm tall and roughly 55cm wide and deep, it's sized to slot into a standard kitchen run without demanding a dedicated American-fridge-sized gap. The exterior is finished in silver (it's also sold in white and black if silver isn't your kitchen's palette), with a flat-fronted design that reads as more contemporary than the rounded, glossy fridges of a decade ago.
Build quality is straightforward rather than luxurious. The rear panel is metal rather than plastic, which is a small but meaningful detail — it holds up better against knocks and scrapes when you're sliding the unit into position. The whole thing moves on two wheels at the base, which helps with initial positioning but don't expect to roll it around your kitchen with ease; it's still a substantial appliance at roughly 53kg net weight, closer to 58kg boxed.
One genuinely useful design choice: the door is reversible, and it opens to a wide 130 degrees on either side. That flexibility matters more than it sounds — it means the fridge can adapt to a kitchen where the hinge side isn't ideal for your layout, whether that's due to a nearby wall, worktop, or walkway. A 1.5-metre power cable and a recommendation to leave around 10cm of clearance behind the unit are standard practicalities worth planning around before delivery day.
One thing to build into your moving-in timeline: after transport, the manufacturer recommends letting the unit settle for around 12 hours before switching it on. This isn't unique to Fridgemaster — it applies to most compressor-based fridges that have been transported on their side or at an angle — but it's an easy step to forget and one that protects the compressor if you skip it.
Storage Capacity: What 252 Litres Actually Means Day to Day
Total capacity sits at 252 litres, split as 158 litres in the fridge and 94 litres in the freezer. That's a fridge-forward split rather than an even 50/50, which suits households that go through more fresh food than frozen — think regular fresh veg, dairy, and leftovers, with the freezer used for batch cooking and staple frozen items rather than as the primary storage zone.
To put that in shopping terms, the manufacturer estimates it holds around 13 bags of groceries — a useful yardstick for a couple or small family doing a proper weekly shop, with enough headroom for the odd bulk-buy or a few extra guests over a weekend.
Fridge compartment
- Two shelves in tempered glass, one of which has a crisper cover to help keep produce fresher for longer
- Three door pockets, deep enough to take tall bottles without shelf-shuffling
- A dedicated compartment (Fridgemaster calls it the "Space Box") for delicate items like dairy and vegetables — essentially a lower-temperature zone separate from the main shelves
- An egg tray, which is a small thing until you don't have one and end up stacking egg boxes on a shelf
Freezer compartment
- Three pull-out drawers plus one flap-style compartment, so you're not excavating through a single deep drawer to find what's at the bottom
- An ice cube tray rather than an automatic ice maker — a manual step, but one less thing to go wrong mechanically
The freezer carries a four-star rating, which in practical terms means it's rated for freezing fresh food (rather than just storing food that's already frozen) and for long-term storage at freezer temperatures. The listed freezing capacity is around 4kg, which is a reasonable, if unremarkable, figure for a freezer of this size — enough for a moderate batch-cooking session, not an entire month's meal prep in one go.
Cooling Performance: The Detail Most Buyers Miss
This is the section that matters most before you buy, and it's the one that's easiest to gloss over on a spec sheet: this is a static cooling fridge freezer with manual defrost, not a frost-free model.
In plain terms, that means ice will build up naturally in the freezer over time, and periodically you'll need to switch it off, empty it, and let it defrost — typically a job that takes a few hours and needs to happen every couple of months depending on how often the door is opened and how humid your kitchen runs. If you've owned a frost-free model previously and are switching down in budget, this is the single biggest lifestyle change to expect, and it's a common source of disappointment among buyers who assumed "modern fridge" automatically meant "frost-free."
Temperature control is handled by a single mechanical dial rather than separate fridge and freezer controls or a digital display. Turning the dial adjusts cooling intensity across both compartments together, which keeps things simple but also means you're working with less precision than an electronic, dual-zone system would offer. There's no fast-freeze function for rapidly chilling a big batch of fresh food, and no temperature display to check at a glance — you're relying on the dial position and your own judgement.
None of this makes the fridge perform poorly; it just means the performance ceiling is set by simpler engineering than you'd find on a mid-range or premium model. For everyday chilling and freezing of typical household food, that's a fair trade for the price point. For anyone planning to freeze large batches of fresh produce regularly, or who wants precise digital control, it's worth knowing the limits going in.
The unit is also built to hold safe temperatures for a meaningful stretch during a power cut — comfortably over half a day in typical conditions — which is a reassuring buffer if you experience occasional power interruptions and don't want to lose a freezer full of food.
The Non-Plumbed Water Dispenser
This is arguably the feature that sets the MC55240DES apart from equivalently priced fridge freezers, and it's worth understanding exactly how it works before you rely on it.
It's a non-plumbed dispenser, meaning there's no need to connect it to your home's water supply — you simply fill an internal tank (holding around 2.5 litres) and it dispenses chilled water on demand from the door. That's a meaningfully lower-hassle setup than a plumbed dispenser, which requires a water line installation most renters and DIY-cautious buyers would rather avoid.
The trade-off is that it's a purely mechanical system — it does not filter the water. You're dispensing whatever you poured in, chilled, not purified. If you want filtered water, you'll need to fill the tank with pre-filtered water yourself; don't expect the dispenser to do that work for you.
It's worth flagging honestly: dispenser leaks and tap issues are a recurring theme in owner feedback for this fridge — not universal, but common enough to be a known quirk rather than a one-off. If yours develops a drip, it's usually the tap mechanism rather than a sign of a wider fault, and it's the kind of thing worth checking during your return window if it appears.
Energy Efficiency and Running Costs
The MC55240DES carries an E rating on the current EU/UK energy label scale, with an annual energy consumption of around 218kWh. On the current label system, E sits in the middle of the range — not the most efficient appliance on the market, but far from the least efficient either, and broadly typical for a static-cooling fridge freezer at this size and price.
To translate that into something tangible: 218kWh a year works out to a modest but real ongoing cost, roughly comparable to running a couple of standard tumble dryer cycles a week, spread across the whole year. It won't be the most economical fridge freezer on the market, but it's not a costly appliance to keep running either — and static-cooling models like this one are typically cheaper to buy upfront than their frost-free, higher-rated equivalents, which is part of the value trade-off buyers are making here.
Noise Level: Genuinely One of Its Strong Points
At 39dB(A), officially placed in noise emission class C, this is a genuinely quiet appliance. For context, that's roughly in the range of a quiet library or a soft conversation — quiet enough that it won't be an intrusive hum in an open-plan kitchen-diner, and one of the more consistently praised aspects among owners. If your kitchen backs onto a living space, or you're sensitive to background appliance noise, this is a legitimate strength rather than a marketing footnote.
Everyday Usability
Beyond the core cooling and storage functions, a handful of smaller details shape how pleasant this fridge is to live with:
- LED lighting in the fridge compartment means you can actually see what's at the back of a shelf, rather than squinting into a dim corner — a small quality-of-life upgrade over older incandescent-lit fridges.
- Adjustable shelving in the fridge gives some flexibility for taller items, though with only two shelves, the degree of reconfiguration is limited compared with fridges that offer three or four.
- The reversible door and side-opening freezer drawers make loading and unloading straightforward for most kitchen layouts.
- A 1-year manufacturer's guarantee is standard for this category and price bracket — not industry-leading, but in line with expectations for a budget appliance.
Who This Fridge Freezer Is Right For
This is a strong fit if:
- You're furnishing a first home, rental property, or student let and want dependable cold storage without a premium price
- You cook and shop regularly rather than doing infrequent bulk freezer stock-ups
- You like the idea of chilled water on tap but don't want (or can't get) a plumbed connection
- A quiet kitchen matters to you, particularly in an open-plan space
- You're comfortable with — or actively prefer — simple mechanical controls over digital displays and smart features
Who Should Look Elsewhere
Consider a different model if:
- You want frost-free convenience and don't want manual defrosting on your household chore list
- You batch-freeze large quantities of fresh food regularly and need a higher freezing capacity or a fast-freeze function
- You want precise digital temperature control or independent settings for fridge and freezer zones
- You want an integrated, filtered water and ice dispenser rather than a manual-fill, unfiltered tank
- Energy efficiency is your top priority and you're willing to pay more upfront for a higher-rated model
How It Stacks Up Against the Alternatives
| Consideration | Fridgemaster MC55240DES | Typical Frost-Free 50/50 Alternative | Typical Higher-Efficiency Model |
|---|---|---|---|
| Defrosting | Manual (static cooling) | Automatic | Automatic |
| Temperature control | Single mechanical dial | Often digital, dual-zone | Digital, dual-zone |
| Water dispenser | Non-plumbed, unfiltered, manual fill | Sometimes plumbed and filtered | Often plumbed and filtered |
| Energy rating | E | Often C–D | Often A–C |
| Noise level | Very quiet (39dB) | Varies, often similar | Varies, often similar |
| Typical price position | Budget | Mid-range | Mid-to-premium |
The pattern here is consistent with most budget appliances: you're trading automation and precision (frost-free operation, digital controls, filtered water) for a lower price and genuinely quiet operation. If those trade-offs align with what you actually need day to day, the MC55240DES represents sound value rather than a compromised purchase.
Strengths and Weaknesses, Honestly
The MC55240DES earns its keep in the places that matter most for everyday use. It's quiet in a way that's noticeable and appreciated, particularly for anyone who's lived with a noisier fridge before. The storage layout is sensible, with genuinely useful extras like the pull-out freezer trays and the crisper-covered shelf, and the non-plumbed water dispenser delivers real convenience without the cost or hassle of a plumbed installation. The reversible door and freestanding design also make it easy to slot into a variety of kitchen layouts, which matters for renters and anyone who might move house with the appliance in tow.
Where it falls short is largely a function of its price bracket rather than poor engineering. Manual defrosting is the most significant practical drawback, and it's one some buyers discover only after unboxing rather than before — worth flagging clearly here so it isn't a surprise. The single mechanical dial, shared between fridge and freezer, offers less precision than separate digital controls, and a handful of owners report the fridge running colder or icier than expected at higher dial settings, which typically points to needing a lower setting than instinct suggests. The water dispenser, while a highlight on paper, has a recurring reputation for occasional tap leaks — not a dealbreaker, but worth checking thoroughly during setup and your return window. And with an E energy rating, it sits mid-pack rather than among the most efficient fridges currently available, which matters if you're optimising hard for running costs over years of ownership.
None of these are unusual complaints for a fridge freezer at this price point — they're the expected trade-offs of budget-focused engineering, not signs of a poorly made appliance.
The Verdict
The Fridgemaster MC55240DES does exactly what it sets out to do: it keeps food cold and frozen reliably, quietly, and without fuss, in a package that fits comfortably into an average UK kitchen. It's best suited to buyers who value simplicity and a low noise floor over automation and digital precision, and who are realistic about taking on manual defrosting as an occasional maintenance task rather than expecting frost-free convenience at this price.
If you're kitting out a first home or rental, replacing an ageing fridge freezer on a tight budget, or you simply want dependable, quiet cold storage with the bonus of chilled water on tap, this is a sensible and well-considered purchase. If frost-free operation, digital controls, or top-tier energy efficiency are non-negotiable for you, it's worth budgeting up to a model built around those features instead — but for what it promises to deliver, the MC55240DES delivers it honestly.
What People Say
112 commentsGreat value for money
Easily manoeuvrable despite it's size, it's quite light. Very little noise but the freezer storage space was smaller than I expected (Width). Took a little time to cool down sufficiently to store food but perhaps I was expecting too much. Great wide doors and seems, at the moment, to be quite efficient. I appreciate that this was not the most expensive fridge/freezer available but the addition of a water cooler was a bonus. One thing I had to adjust was the water cooler nozzle. When I first filled it it leaked, slowly but consistently, so I had to remove the tank, easily done, and adjust the nozzle connection.
BEST FRIDGE/FREEZER I'VE PURCHASED.
I bought this fridge/freezer several months ago and it looks fantastic. I was a little concerned that it might not fit into the space left by my old one, but it did. it's 50/50 -- that is there's as much space at the top ( fridge ) as there is at the bottom ( freezer ). The energy rating is E which is a little down the scale but still acceptable in my book for such a smart-looking fridge/freezer which even has a water dispenser. Well worth the very reasonable price I paid. I thoroughly recommend it.
New fridgefreezer
I like my fridge freezer, it is efficient and has enough shelves in fridge and drawers in freezer. Temperature seems to be fine will know in a few days if it needs adjusted or not. The capacity of fridge and freezer are both fine just what I need. It is pretty quiet overall. I did have a oroblem with the water dispenser but after contacting the company and sending them everything they required they are sending out a new dispenser as they know that what was happening is caused in transit pretty often.
Looks great, great to use, perfect
Such a cool fridge. First off, practically it's perfect. Frost free works great. Ample space utilised well by the shelves, drawers and racks. Water dispenser is a nice added touch. It's also easy to move in and out and it's whisper quiet.
Secondly it looks awesome. The black is really sleek. Everything looks premium.
Thirdly, this was cheaper than anything else that had equivalent features. I picked it up in the sale but even without the sale price this was true.
Awesome fridge.
Ideal for one person
I’ve been using this fridge freezer since 31/01/2026 and it’s been doing exactly what I need. It’s quiet, runs well and I’ve had no temperature issues at all. Although it looks small, it does the job.
Capacity-wise, it’s best suited to one person. If you’ve just moved into a flat and want something cheap and practical, it’s a solid option. For a couple, it would probably feel too small unless you’re happy to shop more often.
Overall, a good budget fridge freezer for solo living.
Bad Fridge/Freezer! Its definitely not cold enough
Even though it was empty and we let it stand long enough, the new fridge/freezer is way warmer than my previous one, and numerous family members have stated it is not cooling properly. This fridge temperature is about 10°C, and the freezer is about 0°C. Way warmer than my previous two separate ones and I have my medication in a brand new fridge that is warm! It has also started to freeze up in the back because i have it on the number 7 setting and it is still not working right.
Great fridge freezer
Had this fridge a few weeks now. It’s not huge quite compact but adequate for a budget fridge freezer. It looks smart in the black and has plenty of shelf space in both parts. It’s not particularly noisy and at the price it’s spot on. Only quibble would be the appalling delivery from Argos cancelling my delivery slot without any notifications and the next available being over a week later. Trying to speak to customer services is an absolute pain!
Love it
Bought this recently and so happy with it. So much more space than my old fridge freezer and I love the water dispenser. Fairly quiet too. First one arrived on Tuesday and it was damaged on the freezer door. Told argos Wednesday. Replacement delivered and damaged one taken away Thursday. If you're going to reverse the door you need some decent tools or wear grippy gloves, as the bolts are done up very tight.
Looks great with lay out of drawers
I am not able to use it at the moment
As I have a problem in my kitchen. But it looks lovely.
Just the right amount of drawers in freezer.and plenty of space in fridge
As soon as I use will review
My friend has same fridge freezer and she loves it..she says food seems to stay fresher than her other fridge she had which was a bush
As it helps me to buy on here when I see 5 star reviews from people
The Perfect Choice for a Modern Family!
We’ve been using this fridge for a few weeks now, and I can honestly say it’s been one of our best purchases. We were looking for a reliable appliance for a family of four, and this model has exceeded all our expectations.
If you’re looking for a fridge that won't disturb your peace and quiet, and one where you don't have to play "Tetris" just to fit the Sunday lunch inside, look no further!
There is a problem with frosting up in the freezer
Has a problem with frosting up. Not had it 6 months and it's starting to frost up in the freezer. That being said, for how much it was and the immediacy of need, so it's doing pretty well. Shame you don't have a year to review the product like. Noise isn't too bad. Capacity is smaller than my previous freezer, despite being the same sort of size.
Overall, a decent fridge freezer so far.
Very good but
You would have got 5 stars, but when it was delivered they said they will not take the packaging. Everything said when I ordered it they would take the packaging from the new one,but they would not take the old fridge which I was happy whith. So sorry you lose a star for this which is a bad reflection on you. Which is a shame because other than this it was an excellent service.
Great Purchase, Great Price
Purchased this fridge/freezer several weeks ago, and I have to admit, I'm glad I did, as it is just what I've been needing for a long time. It's attractive, provides lots of space both internally & outside, it's very quiet, and with all that said, I was able to use the opportunity to pay through Klarna, so thank you Argos, you've put that smile back ony face.
Good products & Prices
Great fridge freezer really good price and excellent customer service, the first one delivered had scratches on the door, called customer services and had a second one delivered in two days and customer service was fantastic, I have purchased many electrical items from Argos and generally good prices and because of the customer service.
An Excellent Fridge-Freezer
This fridge freezer functions wonderfully well. I bought the fridge freezer with a mixed feeling, but now I'm convinced I made the right choice; it works beyond my expectations. I am happy I bought it, so without reservations I recommend it to the public and
everyone looking for fridge freezer to buy.
Simple but great fridge freezer with water dispens
Brilliant basic fridge freezer, good space for a family of 5 who goes shopping once’s a week for fresh food, nice little water dispenser, it’s quiet and was simple to install, plenty of compartments to keep your food separated, every thing stays cool, and efficiency is what it is for a fridge freezer
Don’t delay it’s a great fridge freezer
Smaller than my last fridge freezer but I’m not disappointed very nice and compact and everything I need to be far. Water holder is perfect and the freezer has plenty of room it’s also a quiet freezer no noises from the machine I had my doubts seen it was a brand name but it good
A really good fridge freezer
We have had this fridge freezer now for about 6 months can't fault it at all. Great value, I do find the freezer a little small for us, but we have moved house and we don't have the space for a huge chest freezer anymore. But I am learning!!
I would definitely highly recommend.
Great features
I bought this fridge last week and im literally in love! The size the space is just perfect. Comes with a water dispenser which is so convenient! I love how it looks inside out. Its so quiet cant even hear it. The cooling is brilliant got cold within minutes of turning it on !
Fridge freezer. Great value
I bought this fridge freezer about a month ago when I moved. It's very roomy and the salad drawer is a great size, and the freezer holds more than the chest freezer I had before and it has a bonus feature which is cold water from the front of the fridge! A true excellent buy!
