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The Smeg FAB32RRD5AU is a design-led, freestanding bottom-mount refrigerator with 331 L of storage, modern frost-free cooling and a distinctive red 1950s-inspired exterior. It is a sensible choice if the appearance, 0°C storage drawer and flexible electronic controls matter as much as capacity. It is harder to justify as a value purchase: the listed price is around $4,290–$4,490 in Australia, stock changes, and published energy figures conflict between Smeg’s current specification and a 2023 independent test record. Measure the 1,968 mm height, 601 mm cabinet width, 768 mm handle depth and full right-hand door swing before ordering. Use the energy label on the delivered refrigerator—not an older retailer listing—to estimate running cost.
Is the Smeg FAB32RRD5AU worth buying?
Buy it when you want a statement refrigerator that still provides practical modern refrigeration. Its strongest case is the combination of 50’s Style design, a separate bottom freezer, Total No Frost, MultiFlow air circulation, an inverter compressor, a dedicated 0°C drawer and useful fast-cooling and fast-freezing modes. Its weak points are the premium price, substantial installation depth and uncertainty over which published energy figure applies to the current Australian unit.
The model is best suited to a household that values appearance and organized fresh-food storage over maximum litres per dollar. A buyer focused primarily on low running costs, the narrowest possible footprint or independently verified performance scores should compare other refrigerators using the same measurements and current energy-label method.
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1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteHow much food can the FAB32RRD5AU hold, and how is it arranged?
The refrigerator provides 234 L of fresh-food space and the freezer provides 97 L, for 331 L in total. The freezer is below the refrigerator, so frequently used chilled food stays at a more convenient standing height while frozen food is organized in drawers.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
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- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Fresh-food compartment
- Two adjustable glass shelves.
- One crisper drawer for fruit and vegetables.
- One covered door shelf.
- Two adjustable door shelves.
- One bottle shelf.
- A LifePlus drawer designed for foods such as meat, fish and cheese at about 0°C.
Freezer compartment
- Three freezer drawers.
- Glass shelving.
- A fast-freezing compartment and fast-freezing function.
The layout favors separation and visibility rather than an oversized freezer. The 97 L frozen section is adequate for normal weekly shopping, but households that batch-cook or store large frozen items should check drawer dimensions in the installation manual before assuming a particular container will fit.
What are the exact dimensions and clearance requirements?
The cabinet is 1,968 mm high and 601 mm wide. Depth is 728 mm without the handle, 768 mm including the handle and 1,197 mm when the doors are open to 90 degrees. Those figures describe more than the space occupied by the box: the right-hinged door needs room to swing, and the appliance needs suitable ventilation around its installation position.
| Measurement | Value | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 1,968 mm | Check ceiling height, overhead cabinets and the delivery route. |
| Width | 601 mm | A nominal 601 mm opening leaves little tolerance; confirm the actual niche width and floor level. |
| Depth without handle | 728 mm | Use this for the main cabinet projection. |
| Depth with handle | 768 mm | Use this when planning the finished front-to-back footprint. |
| Depth with doors at 90° | 1,197 mm | Allow this clearance for opening the doors and removing shelves or drawers. |
| Net weight | 96.5 kg | Plan a suitable trolley, floor protection and enough people or professional help for delivery. |
A 601 mm cabinet opening does not mean the refrigerator can operate in a 601 mm-wide installation zone. Measure skirting boards, adjacent handles, walls and islands, then mark the door arc on the floor. Also verify rear and side ventilation requirements with the installation instructions supplied for the Australian model.
What cooling technology and controls does it use?
The FAB32RRD5AU uses Total No Frost to limit ice build-up, MultiFlow fan-assisted distribution to circulate cold air, electronic temperature control and an inverter compressor. These features are intended to reduce manual defrosting and maintain more consistent conditions than a basic static refrigerator, although the public information does not include CHOICE’s member-only temperature scores.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Everyday controls
- Digital LED display for temperature and status information.
- Fast-cooling mode for a large load of fresh groceries.
- Fast-freezing mode and a dedicated fast-freezing area.
- Holiday function for periods when the refrigerator is lightly used.
- ECO function for lower-energy operation when conditions permit.
Protection and preservation features
- LifePlus 0°C drawer for short-term storage of meat, fish and cheese.
- Acoustic and visual door-open alarms.
- Acoustic and visual temperature alarms.
- LED interior lighting.
Smeg specifies a 40-hour temperature-rise time and a freezing capacity of 6 kg in 24 hours. Those are manufacturer specifications, not an independent laboratory ranking, and actual recovery depends on room temperature, loading and how often the doors are opened.
How efficient is the FAB32RRD5AU?
Published energy information is inconsistent, so do not combine the figures into one assumed rating. Smeg’s current Australian product page lists energy-efficiency class D and 204 kWh per year. CHOICE’s 2023 test record and retailer listings show a four-star rating and claimed use of 298 kWh per year.
| Source | Published rating or use | How to interpret it |
|---|---|---|
| Smeg current Australian product specification | Class D; 204 kWh/a | Current manufacturer figure, subject to the label and standard supplied with the delivered unit. |
| CHOICE, 2023 test record | Four stars; 298 kWh/year | Independent record using its stated test basis; detailed running-cost and performance results require membership. |
| Retailer listings | Four stars; 298 kWh/year | May reproduce the older or different database entry rather than the current manufacturer specification. |
The discrepancy may result from different labels, standards or database revisions, but the available public pages do not reconcile it. Before calculating lifetime cost, photograph the Australian energy label on your delivered refrigerator and multiply its annual consumption by your electricity tariff. Treat online retailer figures as provisional until they match that label.
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What does independent testing establish?
CHOICE categorizes the FAB32RRD5AU as a freezer-on-bottom refrigerator in its small 300–380 L class and records a 2023 test year. It also lists Italy as the country of origin and a two-year warranty.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
CHOICE does not publicly expose the unit’s temperature-stability, temperature-evenness, heat-load, running-cost, reliability or owner-satisfaction scores. Those results are member-only, so there is no defensible basis for assigning the refrigerator a numerical performance score or claiming that it outperforms competing models.
How much does it cost, and is it available?
Smeg lists a $4,490 price and showed the model as out of stock at the time of the captured product page. CHOICE showed $4,290, while retailer prices and availability varied. These are time-sensitive Australian figures rather than a guaranteed transaction price.
Because the refrigerator is heavy and tall, compare the delivered total—not just the advertised appliance price. Confirm stock, delivery to your postcode, removal of the old unit, access through doors and stairs, installation terms, warranty handling and the return process before paying. A lower shelf price can be outweighed by difficult delivery or a failed fit.
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What are the complete specifications?
| Specification | FAB32RRD5AU detail |
|---|---|
| Product type | Freestanding refrigerator with bottom-mount freezer |
| Finish | Red |
| Hinge | Right-hand |
| Total storage | 331 L |
| Fresh-food storage | 234 L |
| Frozen-food storage | 97 L |
| Cooling system | Total No Frost; MultiFlow; fan-assisted distribution |
| Compressor and control | Inverter compressor; electronic temperature control |
| Lighting | LED |
| Noise rating | 37 dB(A) |
| Temperature-rise time | 40 hours (Smeg specification) |
| Freezing capacity | 6 kg/24 hours (Smeg specification) |
| Connection rating | 127 W |
| Current | 0.8 A |
| Frequency | 50/60 Hz |
| Plug and cable | Australian plug; 180 cm cable |
| Net weight | 96.5 kg |
| Country of origin | Italy, according to CHOICE’s listing |
| Warranty | Two years, according to CHOICE’s listing |
How should you check the kitchen before ordering?
Use this sequence to avoid the most expensive mistake: discovering that a premium refrigerator cannot be delivered or opened in its intended position.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
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- Measure the niche. Record the narrowest width, the floor-to-ceiling height and the depth to the nearest obstruction, including skirting and power outlets.
- Map the door swing. The published unit is right-hinged. Mark a 90-degree door arc and confirm that walls, islands and neighboring appliances do not block it.
- Measure the delivery path. Check the building entrance, corridors, lift, stair turns and the final doorway. Compare every restriction with the packed-appliance dimensions supplied by the retailer.
- Confirm ventilation. Follow the Australian installation instructions for rear and side clearances rather than pushing the cabinet tightly against surrounding panels.
- Check the electrical point. The specification calls for an Australian plug, 127 W connection rating, 0.8 A current and a 180 cm cable. Ensure the outlet remains accessible without using an unsafe extension arrangement.
- Plan the floor and handling. At 96.5 kg net, the refrigerator needs a level, load-bearing floor and professional handling if the route includes stairs or tight turns.
- Inspect on delivery. Before signing, check the red panels, door alignment, seals, shelves, drawers and display for transit damage, and keep the serial number and purchase record for warranty service.
What are the main advantages and drawbacks?
Advantages
- Distinctive red 50’s Style exterior for kitchens where the appliance is part of the décor.
- Useful 331 L split with the fresh-food section above the freezer.
- Total No Frost reduces routine defrosting.
- MultiFlow circulation, inverter compression and electronic control provide a more sophisticated cooling system than entry-level designs.
- LifePlus 0°C drawer adds a dedicated zone for delicate chilled foods.
- Fast cooling, fast freezing, holiday and ECO modes cover different usage patterns.
- Door-open and temperature alarms provide audible and visual warnings.
Drawbacks
- Premium pricing makes capacity-per-dollar less attractive than conventional-looking refrigerators.
- At nearly two metres high and up to 768 mm deep with the handle, it needs careful planning.
- The 1,197 mm 90-degree door-clearance figure can be decisive in galley kitchens and narrow walkways.
- Energy information is currently inconsistent between Smeg, CHOICE and retailer pages.
- CHOICE’s detailed performance and satisfaction scores are not publicly visible.
- The 97 L freezer may feel limited to households that store large quantities of frozen food.
Who should buy this refrigerator?
Choose it if a visible, characterful appliance is a priority and your kitchen can accommodate its height, depth and right-hand opening. It also suits cooks who will use the 0°C drawer and flexible cooling modes rather than treating the refrigerator as a simple cold box.
Look elsewhere if your priority is the lowest verified annual consumption, the largest freezer, a counter-depth fit or a price close to mainstream 300–380 L models. A competing model should be judged against the same external clearances, usable fresh/freezer split, current energy label, warranty terms and delivery support.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How should you compare it with another refrigerator?
Do not compare decorative finish or headline litres alone. Use the following checklist so a cheaper-looking alternative does not hide a fit, operating-cost or support disadvantage.
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|---|---|
| External fit | What are the cabinet, handle and open-door dimensions, and which side is hinged? |
| Usable storage | How much space is fresh food versus frozen food, and do drawers accept your usual containers? |
| Energy | What number appears on the current local energy label, and which test standard produced it? |
| Cooling hardware | Does it include frost-free operation, multi-airflow, inverter control and a dedicated low-temperature drawer? |
| Convenience and safety | Are fast-cooling, fast-freezing, holiday, ECO and door or temperature alarms included? |
| Acoustics | What is the stated noise level, and are installation conditions likely to change perceived sound? |
| Ownership support | What warranty applies in Australia, who performs service, and what are the delivery and removal charges? |
| Total cost | What is the delivered price after freight, installation, old-appliance removal and any access surcharge? |
What is the final verdict on the Smeg FAB32RRD5AU?
The FAB32RRD5AU is a handsome, technically well-equipped 331 L refrigerator whose strongest justification is design combined with genuinely useful storage and controls. It is worth considering when the red finish and 0°C drawer are central to your buying decision and the installation measurements work. Treat the purchase as a premium design choice, verify the current energy label and final delivered price, and do not rely on unpublished independent scores to justify the premium.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the FAB32RRD5AU have a reversible door?
The published specification identifies a right-hand hinge but does not confirm that the hinge can be reversed. Treat the swing as fixed until Smeg or the installing retailer confirms reversibility for the Australian version in writing.
Is a 37 dB(A) rating always quiet in a kitchen?
A 37 dB(A) specification is a useful reference, but perceived sound also depends on flooring, wall reflections, compressor cycling and how level the cabinet is. Leave the stated ventilation clearances and level the appliance carefully rather than judging noise from the number alone.
What should I keep for a warranty claim?
Keep the tax invoice, model and serial-number photographs, delivery paperwork and a record of any installation work. Photographing the exterior and interior immediately after delivery can help distinguish transit damage from a later service issue.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Can the 0°C drawer replace a freezer for meat or fish?
No. The LifePlus drawer is a chilled storage zone intended for short-term holding of foods such as meat, fish and cheese; it is not a frozen-storage compartment. Follow the food-safety guidance supplied with the appliance for storage times.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
