Side by Side refrigerator: what is it and Who is this design suitable for?

What is Side by Side: design and principle of operation

Refrigerator Side by Side (abbreviated as SxS or SBS) is a two-door model where the refrigerator and freezer compartments are separated vertical partition and open like a wardrobe. The width of each door is usually 50–60 cm, and the total width of the body is from 90 cm or more. This makes them visually more massive than standard refrigerators, but it allows you to place more shelves and drawers at the same height.

Key feature - uniform temperature distribution the entire height of the chambers. In classic models, cold air accumulates at the bottom (according to the laws of physics), so in bottom-mounted freezers, food freezes faster, but the upper shelves of the refrigerator compartment may be warmer. In Side by Side this effect is minimized thanks to:

• 🔄 Multi-flow cooling system (for example, Multi Air Flow Samsung or Twin Cooling Plus LG), which evenly distributes air across all levels.
• 🧊 Separate compressors for each chamber (in premium models), which eliminates the mixing of odors between the refrigerator and freezer compartments.
• 📏 Ergonomic height of shelves —there is no need to bend over for food, as in models with a bottom freezer.

Important: do not confuse Side by Side with double-door French-type refrigerators (French Door). The latter have two upper doors for the refrigerator compartment and a drawer for the freezer below. SxS the freezer is a separate vertical door, not a drawer.

Advantages of Side by Side refrigerators: why choose them?

Despite the high price and dimensions, demand for Side by Side is growing. Here objective advantagesthat justify the choice:

1. Easy access to products. All shelves are at eye and hand level—no need to bend over for vegetables or reach for ice cream. This is especially valuable for people with back problems or the elderly.
2. Large usable volume. With the same height as classic models, SxS offers 20–30% more space due to its width. For example, a refrigerator Samsung RS62R5001M9 at a height 178 cm has a volume 617 l (versus 350–400 l standard models of the same height).
3. Better organization of space. Vertical doors allow you to use modular shelves, baskets for bottles, drawers and even compartments with adjustable humidity (for example, for herbs or cheeses).
4. Energy efficiency. Modern models correspond to the class A+++ and consume no more than classic refrigerators of the same volume. For example, LG GC-B247JLVZ with volume 601 l consumes only 380 kWh/year.
5. Design and integration. Side by Side often chosen for kitchens in the loft or hi-techstyle, where visual harmony with appliances is important. Some models (for example, Bosch KAN92VI30R) support a built-in option.

An important nuance: in Side by Side refrigerators, the freezer compartment is usually smaller in volume than the refrigerator compartment (ratio approximately 60:40). This is a plus for those who rarely freeze large batches of food, but can be a problem for those who like to prepare food.

Disadvantages and limitations: who is Side by Side not suitable for?

Despite the obvious advantages, Side by Side is not a universal solution. Here are key disadvantageswhich are often kept silent in advertising:

• 📏 Dimensions. Width from 90 cm requires a spacious kitchen. In typical “Khrushchev” or studio apartments, such a refrigerator can block the passage or interfere with the opening of neighboring cabinets.
• 💰 Price. The average cost starts from (budget models) and goes up to (premium) data-i="140">Price 80 000 ₽ (budget models ATLANT or Indesit) and reaches 300 000+ ₽ (premium Liebeherr or Samsung Bespoke).
• 🧊 Limited freezer. If you are storing berries, mushrooms or meat for the winter, the volume of the freezer (150–200 l) may not be enough.
• 🔌 Energy consumption with open doors. Due to the large area of the doors, cold loss when opening is higher than in classic models. This is compensated by powerful compressors, but can affect electricity bills.
• 🔧 Difficulty of repair. cooling, electronic modules and touch panels make SxS more vulnerable to breakdowns. Spare parts and service are more expensive.

It is also worth considering that not all models support door overhangingIf your kitchen requires left-hand opening, check this option. in advance (for example, the doors are overhanged, but the doors are not). Bosch KAN90VI35R the doors are hung, and Samsung RB37J5240SA - No).

Comparison of Side by Side with other types of refrigerators

To understand whether Side by Sideis right for you, let's compare it with alternative designs:

If you need maximum volume with limited width, consider French Door. If the priority is ease of access and organization of space, and the kitchen is spacious, Side by Side it will be optimal choice.

How to choose Side by Side: what to look for?

When choosing a refrigerator Side by Side consider not only the volume and design, but also technical parametersthat affect ease of use:

1. Cooling system:
   • 🌬️ No Frost —automatic defrosting, but takes up part of the useful volume.
   • ❄️ Low Frost —manual defrosting once a year, but more space inside.
   • 🔄 Double No Frost (for example, y LG)—separate systems for each chamber, no mixing of odors.
2. Noise level. Optimally - up to 40 dB. Models with inverter compressors (for example, Samsung Digital Inverter) operate almost silently.
3. Additional functions:
   • 🍷 Freshness zone (0°C) for meat, fish, cheeses.
   • 🧊 Ice maker (built-in or with water connection).
   • 📱 Smart control (Wi-Fi, voice assistant, open door notifications).

Pay attention to the width of the doors: if the opening in the kitchen is narrow, choose models with reduced opening radius (for example, Liebeherr SBSes 7255 opens at 90°, and not at 180°).

Measure the niche (width × depth × height)|Check the door opening radius|Check the possibility of overhanging the doors|Assess the noise level (up to 40 dB)|Check the presence of a freshness zone (if needed)-->

Installation and operation: nuances that are not talked about

Even the most advanced Side by Side will lose its advantages if it is installed or operated incorrectly. Here are the key points:

• 📍 Distance from the walls. data-i="235">for ventilation. Side gaps - minimum 5–10 cm for ventilation. Side clearances - minimum 2 cm.
• ⚡ Socket. The refrigerator should be connected directly, without extensions. grounding.
• 🧲 Magnetic seals. Check their tightness when closing: if there are gaps, the compressor will work for wear.
• 🧊 First switching onAfter delivery, let the refrigerator stand. data-i="244">in a vertical position (for oil distribution in the compressor). 4–6 hours in a vertical position (to distribute oil in the compressor).

Defrosting features:

- Models with No Frost do not require manual defrosting, but they need to be washed 1-2 times a year (unplugged from the mains).

- If the refrigerator is with a drip system, defrost the freezer when the ice grows thicker 5 mm.

⚠️ Attention: If the refrigerator Side by Side equipped with an ice maker connected to the water supply, install a fine filter. cleaning (for example, Aquaphor Crystal). Otherwise, scale will clog the system in 2-3 months.

Popular Side by Side models: comparison and prices

Here are examples of current models (2026–2026) with their key characteristics:

When choosing, be guided not only by the price, but also warranty period (optimally - 3–5 years for the compressor) and the availability of service centers in your region.

⚠️ Attention: Model characteristics may vary depending on the year of manufacture. Check the current data on the manufacturer's website or with the seller.

FAQ: answers to frequently asked questions