Summit Appliance FFBF235PL Bottom Freezer Refrigerator Review

Summit Appliance has built a strong reputation for creating dependable refrigeration solutions for compact living spaces. The brand focuses on practical design and consistent performance, appealing to those who value efficiency without excess. Its Thin-Line series reflects that philosophy, offering refrigerators that balance style with space-saving engineering.

The FFBF235PL model now under review combines a sizable refrigerator and freezer in one compact footprint. Read on as we examine whether it’s the right fit for those who want a compact fridge freezer that maintains performance standards found in larger models.

Visit Amazon for more details

Key Features

• 24-inch Thin-Line design
• 10.8 cu. ft. capacity
• Bottom freezer configuration
• Stainless steel look finish
• Digital temperature controls
• Dual crisper drawers
• Adjustable glass shelves
• ENERGY STAR certified
• Frost-free operation

Design and Build Quality

The Summit Appliance FFBF235PL has a clean, modern design that suits small kitchens and contemporary interiors. Its stainless steel look doors feature a horizontal grain that gives a refined texture while staying fingerprint resistant. The side cabinet has a textured grey finish that blends nicely with the door’s sleek exterior. The plain front surface without a brand logo adds to its minimalist appeal. Two external handles provide a balanced look and offer a comfortable grip, supporting a more traditional refrigerator style.

With a depth of 23.25 inches, it sits nearly flush with standard kitchen countertops (around 25.5 inches), creating a built-in look ideal for compact kitchens. The 23.5-inch width reflects the brand’s Thin-Line approach, allowing the appliance to fit easily into narrow spaces.

Both doors are reversible. Also, before purchase, you can select either a right-hand (RHD) or left-hand (LHD) door configuration. This flexibility makes it easier to adapt to different kitchen designs or apartment layouts without needing to reverse the door yourself.

Interior Layout and Storage Options

The refrigerator section of the Summit Appliance FFBF235PL has a well-organized layout suited to small households. Inside, there are three adjustable safety glass shelves and a wire rack for bottle storage. Two drawers sit below, including a humidity-controlled crisper for fresh produce and a second drawer designed for meats and deli items. LED lighting brightens the interior evenly, making it easier to locate stored items without shadows or glare.

The door layout includes three racks, each made to hold bottles, jars, and condiments securely. Two height-adjustable slots give extra flexibility for storing tall containers or milk cartons. This makes efficient use of vertical space while keeping the main compartment clear for bulkier groceries. The smooth shelf and bin surfaces simplify cleaning and maintain a neat, organized appearance.

Below, the bottom freezer is divided into an open top shelf and two slide-out drawers fitted with clear plastic doors. The setup keeps frozen items visible and accessible while separating different types of food. The freezer includes an ice tray with a storage bin and a simple crank system, offering a practical way to make and store ice without taking up extra space.

There is some discrepancy regarding the freezer’s interior capacity. The manufacture lists the capacity as 3.43 cu. ft. in their official brochure but some online retailers list it as 5.0 cu. ft. Check this in advance if capacity is a priority.

Its total capacity of 10.8 cubic feet provides a balanced mix of refrigeration and freezer space, designed for everyday use in small kitchens, apartments, or compact homes.

Cooling Performance and Temperature Control

The cooling system in the FFBF235PL maintains stable temperatures across both the refrigerator and freezer compartments. A fan-assisted design keeps air moving evenly, preventing cold spots and helping food stay fresh for longer periods. Both sections are frost-free, which removes the need for manual defrosting and ensures consistent airflow and temperature balance.

The control panel is located at the top of the fridge interior and uses a simple touch interface with a digital thermostat. It features two buttons that allow quick temperature adjustments and a display of seven green indicator lights that show temp settings from 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F).

A handy practical feature included is the Super Freeze function. This rapidly drops the freezer temperature to -11°F, preserving freshness and nutrients when adding large amounts of new groceries. Activate it by holding the Super Freeze button for 3 seconds. It automatically turns off after 52 hours, returning to its previous setting.

During operation, the appliance runs very quietly at around 32.9 dB, which makes it suitable for open-plan or apartment living. The compressor operates smoothly with little vibration, and the consistent cooling helps maintain stable performance even in warmer environments.

Energy Efficiency

The Summit Appliance FFBF235PL is ENERGY STAR certified, reflecting its efficient performance for a refrigerator in the 24-inch class. With an annual energy consumption of 391 kWh, it balances cooling capability and energy use well for its size, making it a sensible option for anyone conscious of both space and electricity costs.

For small apartments or compact kitchens, this efficiency translates to practical day-to-day benefits, lower running costs and a consistent cooling experience without excess power draw. Its efficient design ensures reliable operation while maintaining a focus on long-term energy savings.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Routine upkeep for the FFBF235PL is basic. The removable glass shelves allow for easy cleaning and rearrangement when needed, to maintain a tidy interior with minimal effort. The materials inside the refrigerator are designed for quick wipe-downs, so most cleaning can be completed in a few minutes using mild detergents.

Overall, maintenance is occasional rather than frequent, with little required beyond standard cleaning of the compartments and surfaces. This simplicity makes it a low-effort appliance to keep in good condition.

Pros and Cons

Final Thoughts

The Summit Appliance FFBF235PL delivers a good balance of style, practicality, and energy efficiency in a compact form. Its stainless steel look and counter-depth design make it a natural fit for modern kitchens. And its quiet performance and efficient cooling system are impressive. Although its capacity may feel limited for larger households, it makes smart use of space and remains efficient for daily essentials.

For small apartments, condos, or minimalist homes, this refrigerator is tailor made for. We find it particularly suited to those who value quiet operation and low running costs without compromising on modern design. It’s a confident choice for anyone who needs a slim, space-conscious refrigerator.

FAQ: Summit FFBF235PL Bottom Freezer Refrigerator