Labelling of Bosch refrigerators: what do the letters and numbers in the model name mean

When choosing a refrigerator Bosch, it is easy to get lost in the variety of models with their intricate designations. KGN39VL30R, KIN86AF30 or KAD92SB30 —what is hidden behind these combinations? In fact, each letter and number in the marking carries specific information about the characteristics of the device. By understanding the logic of the designations, you can quickly determine the type of refrigerator, its dimensions, climate class and even the level of energy consumption - even before you open the technical data sheet.

In this article we will analyze in detail the structure of refrigerator labeling Bosch, we will learn to decipher the series, types of compressors and additional functions. We will pay special attention new models 2023–2026to where the manufacturer introduced changes in designations. You will also learn how to use labeling to determine compatibility with smart control systems and the presence of freshness zones. This will help you avoid mistakes when purchasing and choose equipment that is ideal for your needs.

Labelling structure: general principle

All refrigerators Bosch have a marking consisting of 8-10 characters, which are divided into logical blocks. The classic scheme looks like this:

[K/G] [A/I] [D/N] [XX] [X] [X] [X] [X/R]

Where:

• 🔹 First character — type of equipment (K for refrigerators, G for freezers).
• 🔹 The second symbol — series or ruler (A, I, V etc.).
• 🔹 The third symbol is the installation type (D - free-standing, N - built-in).
• 🔹 Fourth–fifth characters —height or volume (in encoded form).
• 🔹 Sixth–eighth characters —functional features, color, energy efficiency.
• 🔹 The last character —case color (R —red, W —white, S —silver, etc.).

For example, in the model KGN39VL30R:

• 🔹 K —refrigerator (not freezer).
• 🔹 G - series VarioStyle (premium class).
• 🔹 N - built-in model.
• 🔹 39 - height ~185 cm (coding Bosch).
• 🔹 VL30 - functions (including VitaFresh and class A+++).
• 🔹 R - color Borneo Red.

Decoding of the first three characters: type and series

The first three letters are the “passport” of the refrigerator, which will tell you about its basic purpose and membership in the line.

Please note: in new models 2023–2026 Bosch started using the letter V in the second character to indicate line VarioStyle Pro with an improved cooling system MultiAirflow. For example, KVN39VL30R is a refrigerator series VarioStyle Pro with uniform air distribution technology.

⚠️ Attention: If the marking contains a letter P in the third position (for example, KIP47PX30), this indicates model with the function PerfectFit a special fastening system for built-in refrigerators, compatible with kitchen sets. Bosch i Siemens.

The fourth and fifth characters: height and volume

These numbers encode the dimensions of the refrigerator. Unlike other manufacturers, Bosch does not use direct meanings, but an internal notation system. Here's how to decipher them:

• 🔢 First digit (4th character) —height in decimeters:
  • 3 — ~170–185 cm (compact models).
  • 5 — ~185–200 cm (standard).
  • 8 — ~200 cm and above (large Side-by-Side).
• 🔢 Second digit (5th character) — total volume (refrigerator + freezer) in liters, coded by the formula:

  Volume ≈ (Number × 10) + 50 liters

  For example, 39 v KGN39VL30R means ~390 liters (3×10 + 50 = 80 is an outdated calculation; for new models the formula is used Number × 35, i.e. 39×35 ≈ 390 l).

Important: In 2026 models Bosch switched to a new volume encoding, where the numbers correspond to the actual volume divided by 10. For example, KIN86AF30 has a volume 386 l (86 × 10 = 860 l / 2 ≈ 430 l - this is incorrect; correct calculation: 86 × 4.5 ≈ 387 l).

Sixth to eighth characters: functions and energy efficiency

This block is the most informative. Here are encrypted:

1. 🔋 Energy efficiency (letter A–D + number of pluses).
2. ❄️ Type of defrosting (NoFrost, LowFrost).
3. 🌡️ Climate class (SN, N, ST, T).
4. 🍎 Additional functions (fresh zone, ice maker, etc.).

Let's decipher it using an example KIN86AF30:

• 🔹 A - energy efficiency class A+++ (highest).
• 🔹 F - availability of function SuperFreezing (fast freezing).
• 🔹 30 - climatic class SN-T (extended temperature range from +10°C to +43°C).

⚠️ Attention: If the marking contains a letter P in the sixth position (for example, KIP42PX30), this indicates support smart control via the application Home Connect. Such models can be integrated into the system. Smart Home and control your voice via Alice or Google Assistant.

What to do if there is no letter N in the marking (NoFrost)?

If there is no letter in 6-8 characters, this means that the refrigerator requires N, this means that the refrigerator requires manual defrosting or is equipped with a system LowFrost (indicated by a letter L). the freezer will have to be defrosted 1-2 times a year, even if the specifications indicate “automatic defrosting of the refrigerator compartment.”

Last character: body color

The color of the refrigerator is indicated by the last letter in the marking. Bosch uses standard coding:

• 🔴 R — Borneo Red (red).
• ⚪ W — White (white).
• ⚫ B — Black (black).
• ⚪ S — Silver or Inox (silver/stainless steel).
• 🟤 G — Graphite (graphite).
• 🔵 U — Blue (blue, rare).

For example, KAD92SB30 with the letter S at the end will have a stainless steel case, and KGN39VL30R - a bright red color (Borneo Red). In premium series (Serie 8), there are often exclusive shades, such as Anthracite (A) or Titanium (T).

Color affects not only aesthetics, but also cost: models with a stainless steel case (S) or exclusive shades (R, G) are usually 10–20% more expensive than white ones (W).

Climate class: what do the letters SN, N, ST, T mean

In the marking Bosch climate class can be encrypted in 7-8 characters (for example, 30 in KIN86AF30 corresponds to class SN-T). This parameter determines at what ambient temperature the refrigerator will operate effectively.

If the refrigerator will be used in conditions that do not correspond to its class (for example, model class N at +35°C), this will lead to:

• 🔥 Overheating of the compressor and an increase in energy consumption by 20–30%.
• ❄️ Insufficient cooling (the temperature in the chamber can rise to +8°C).
• ⚠️ Reducing the service life of equipment by 30–40%.

⚠️ Attention: In 2026 Bosch released models with extended climate class SN-T (from +10°C to +43°C), which are marked with a code 30 in 7–8 positions. Such refrigerators are universal, but cost 15–25% more than standard ones.

How to determine the year of manufacture by marking

Unlike cars or other equipment Bosch does not indicate the year of manufacture on the refrigerator label. However, there are indirect signs:

1. 📅 Serial number (located on the nameplate inside the refrigerator or on the back wall). Format: XX/XXXXXXX, where the first two digits are the year of production (for example, 23/... —2023).
2. 🔍 Changes in marking:
   • Until 2020 in premium series used the letter V for VarioStyle.
   • Since 2021, the letter appeared P for models with Home Connect.
   • Since 2023, a new formula has been used in volume markings (see section above).

🛒 Article in the store. Often contains the year at the end (for example, BOSCH KGN39VL30R/01, where 01 is the 2021 modification).

If it is critical for you to know the exact year of manufacture (for example, for warranty or repair), check:

1. A sticker on the compressor (sometimes the date of assembly is indicated there).
2. Documents (warranty card or receipt) where the date of sale is stated.
3. Official website Bosch by serial number (registration required).

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the marking of Bosch refrigerators

🔍 How to distinguish a built-in refrigerator from a free-standing one by markings?

In the marking of built-in models on third position is a letter N (for example, KGN39VL30R). Free-standing ones are indicated by a letter D (for example, KAD92SB30).

❄️ Which is better: NoFrost or LowFrost?

NoFrost (letter N v marking) completely eliminates the formation of frost and requires defrosting every 1-2 years for hygienic cleaning. LowFrost (letter L) is cheaper, but the freezer will have to be defrosted manually 2-3 times a year. For regions with a humid climate, it is better to choose NoFrost.

🔋 Which energy efficiency class is the most economical?

Since 2021, Bosch has been producing models with the class A+++ (indicated by a letter A with three pluses in the characteristics). 40–50% less electricity compared to class A+. In the labeling this can be encoded as A in the 6th position (for example, KIN86AF30).

🌡️ Is it possible to use a class N refrigerator in a hot climate?

Technically possible, but this will shorten the service life of the compressor. For temperatures above +32°C, choose models with class ST or T (the marking may indicate the code 30 for SN-T).

📱 How to understand that the refrigerator supports smart control?

The marking will have a letter P in the 6th position (for example, KIP42PX30). Such models are compatible with the application Home Connect and voice assistants.