Midea MRU03M2ABB 3.0 cu. ft. Upright Freezer Review
Midea MRU03M2ABB Upright Freezer – Quick Summary
Best For: Small households needing efficient, consistent cooling performance
Capacity: 3.0 cu. ft.
Energy Usage: 240 kWh/year (ENERGY STAR certified)
Key Feature: Dynamic cooling system for faster, more even freezing
Pros: Efficient performance, child lock, runs quiet
Cons: Manual defrost, rear temperature control, no interior light
Our Verdict
An upright freezer that does the basics remarkably well. The Midea MRU03M2ABB combines efficient cooling with quiet operation at an affordable cost.
The Midea MRU03M2ABB is an entry-level to lower midrange upright freezer, first released in 2020. With its energy efficient design and 3 cubic feet of space, its designed for everyday use in kitchens, dorms or confined spaces. The freezer cools quickly and holds temperature well, giving it a solid reputation among budget-friendly upright models.
Compared with the earlier Midea WHS-109FW1, this model fine-tunes what worked before. Most notably, the temperature range is slightly higher and it features a door lock for added security.
Key Features
- 3.0 cu. ft compact size
- Energy Star certified
- Reversible door
- Mechanical temperature dial
- Removable wire basket
- Manual defrost with drain plug
- Child lock
Design and Build Quality
Compact upright freezers often blend into small spaces, and this model follows that same practical approach. The Midea MRU03M2ABB has a black finish that gives it a sleek, modern look. The surface is smooth and easy to wipe down, which helps keep it looking fresh in kitchens or offices.
The recessed handle sits neatly at the top of the door, giving the front a clean appearance while keeping the design functional. The inclusion of a child door lock is a handy practical feature for households with children.
Setup and Installation
The appliance itself is well packed in the box with protective foam between components. The manual recommends the freezer should be handled by two people for the initial setup.
For placement, it requires at least 30 cm of clearance above for ventilation, so it’s not suitable for undercounter use. As the freezer’s height is 33.9 inches, you would need a total vertical space of about 45.9 inches to install it properly with sufficient clearance topside.
The minimum space clearance required around the unit:
- 20 cm (8 inches) on both sides
- 10 cm (4 inches) at the back
- 30 cm (12 inches) top side
Temperature Range and Cooling Performance
Temperature control plays a key role in how well a freezer performs. The MRU03M2ABB has an operating temperature range of 10.4°F to -11.2°F. Its higher upper temperature compared with the older WHS-109FW1 model allows slightly softer freezing, useful for short-term storage or items that don’t need rock-solid freezing. The lower limit is cold enough to handle long-term preservation of meats and other frozen foods, keeping contents stable and safe.
Due to its dynamic cooling system, cooling performance is steady once the unit reaches its set level. Although it takes about 24 to 48 hours to fully stabilize after setup.
A mechanical temperature control dial manages the settings, marked from 1 (warmest) to 6 (coldest). The dial is located near the compressor at the back. This improves space efficiency and gives the freezer a tidier layout, though the controls can be inconvenient to access if frequent adjustments are necessary.
Interior Layout and Storage
Inside this Midea upright freezer, the layout is simple and functional. Two fixed wire shelves divide the space evenly. A removable wire basket at the bottom adds extra room for smaller or loose items. The shelves are coated metal, which helps prevent rust and makes cleaning easier. Although they can’t be adjusted, the setup keeps food organized and easy to reach.
The wire shelves have tubing integrated that is part of the cooling system, which provides more effective and even cooling throughout the interior. This keeps items on the shelves at a consistently colder temperature compared to basic wire shelves without tubing.
Along the back wall on the inside, protected metal refrigerant lines are visible. This is uncommon in most upright freezers but not a problem in regular use. They’re securely covered and don’t interfere with storage.
Energy Use and Efficiency
For a compact upright freezer, the Midea MRU03M2ABB is above average for efficiency. It carries an Energy Star certification and employs a high-efficiency R600A compressor designed to minimize power consumption without affecting cooling performance.
The freezer uses 240 kWh per year, which is low for its size and capacity. In practice, this means it operates efficiently even with frequent door openings or when used as extra storage in warmer rooms. For anyone looking for an energy-efficient freezer that balances cooling power with reasonable electricity use, this model performs reliably.
Noise Level
Upright freezers are generally slightly noisier than chest freezers, so noise is a factor to consider. The Midea MRU03M2ABB has a noise level of 42 decibels, which is similar to the sound of a quiet kitchen or gentle background hum.
It’s about average for a compact upright freezer and generally unobtrusive once placed in a kitchen or utility area. The compressor cycles smoothly, with only a soft vibration when it’s running. For most home settings, the noise level is low enough to go unnoticed after a short time.
Maintenance and Defrosting
The Midea MRU03M2ABB is a manual defrost freezer, so regular care helps maintain performance. Frost buildup is typical for an upright freezer and should be removed once it reaches about ¼ inch (1 cm) thick.
Defrosting is simple: unplug the unit, remove food and shelves, and let the ice melt naturally. A built-in drain plug makes it easier to remove the meltwater without lifting or tipping the appliance.
Cleaning inside is also easy. The interior can be wiped with a cloth or sponge using a warm water and baking soda solution- about two tablespoons of baking soda per quart of water. The shelves and removable basket wash easily with mild detergent, while the exterior can be cleaned with a soft cloth and gentle soap.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Compact upright design fits easily in small spaces
- Energy Star certified with a high-efficiency R600A compressor
- Steady cooling performance across the full temperature range
- Reversible door and recessed handle for flexible placement
- Low annual energy use (around 240 kWh per year)
- Removable wire basket for small-item storage
Cons
- Temperature control dial is located at the rear, making adjustments less convenient
- 30cm top clearance required- not suitable for undercounter use
- No interior light for visibility in low-light areas
- Manual defrost requires periodic maintenance
Final Thoughts
The Midea MRU03M2ABB Upright Freezer is a proven performer that stands out amongst entry-level upright models. Its exceptional cooling performance, efficient compressor, and Energy Star certification are some of its key highlights.
Although it does lack some convenience features, auto defrost and interior lighting are not standard features typically found in 3.0 cu. ft. upright freezers. And its rear temp controls help free up some interior space. So this should be kept in mind when weighing up the pros and cons.
While the Midea MRU03M2ABB and WHS-109FW1 share nearly identical specifications, the choice between them mostly comes down to style and safety. The MRU03M2ABB has a black finish and includes a built-in child lock, while the WHS-109FW1 retains the classic white exterior without the lock feature.
FAQ: Midea MRU03M2ABB Upright Freezer
No. The Midea MRU03M2ABB is not designed for garage or outdoor use. It should be placed in an indoor area where the ambient temperature stays between 55°F and 90°F for reliable performance.
The freezer usually takes between 24 and 48 hours to stabilize at the selected temperature. It’s best to wait until it has fully cooled before stocking it with food.