We assess how well the range of the fridge and freezer temperature options suit the needs of most users. The higher the score, the better the temperature management between the fridge and freezer compartments.

We measure how well the fridge adjusts to changes in the outside room temperature, like the change from winter to summer. The higher the score, the more stable the fridge temperature will be.

We measure how uniform the temperature is throughout each compartment. The higher the score, the more uniform. That means fewer fluctuations throughout compartments.

We test whether the fridge's default setting (which most people don't change) is suitable for the Australian climate.

Our priority is testing the models you'll see in stores and major online retailers. To do this, we check current market data to see what's most popular. We'll also test models that a lot of members have requested.

We use calibrated platinum resistance thermometers (PRTs) and set lots of them consistently throughout each fridge in a variety of areas. We do this to measure each compartment and shelf so you know where a fridge is warmer and cooler than normal. We replicate these areas according to the Australian Standard AS/NZS 4474.2. Our experts assess key test criteria including temperature range, response to outside temperature change, temperature evenness, noise levels, plus many more.

Our expert testers have over 30 years' combined experience in our thermal laboratory, and some of them sit on both national and international industry standards committees.

Unlike other product review sites, we don't accept free test models from manufacturers. This means we're independent and can review without interference. We buy products anonymously from a variety of retailers, then bring them into our labs. This means we get what you'd get, and can be sure the model hasn't been potentially 'tweaked' for better performance.

While fridges are a pretty simple device, their thermal properties take time to measure. We test every few months in batches of up to 10 fridges at a time. We're always looking for ways to improve testing, so we regularly survey our members to find out what's important to them and what they look for when buying a fridge.

Not all fridges are created equal when it comes to keeping your food fresh and safe to eat. Our food safety score is made up of three elements: temperature stability (40%), temperature evenness (30%), and response to outside temperature (30%).