Refrigerator buying guide: styles, depth and fit

The refrigerator is the biggest appliance in the kitchen and the one people open most. Choosing the style and depth early shapes the whole cabinet plan.

Styles

• French door: two fridge doors over a freezer drawer, wide shelves at eye level. The most popular choice.
• Side-by-side: narrow doors that suit tight aisles.
• Bottom freezer: a single fridge door over a freezer drawer.
• Column: separate full-height fridge and freezer units for a built-in look.

Counter-depth or standard

Counter-depth refrigerators sit closer to flush with the cabinets for a built-in look and a clearer walkway, with a bit less space inside. Standard-depth models hold more but stick out past the counters. Browse refrigerators.

Measure everything

• The opening width, height and depth.
• Clearance for hinges and doors to open fully, especially next to a wall.
• The path into the house: doorways, stairs and turns.

Check the spec sheet for the ventilation space the manufacturer requires.

Water and ice

An ice maker or water dispenser needs a water line to the refrigerator location, which is easy to add during a remodel. A filtered water line is a nice upgrade on well water.

Plan with the cabinets

A tall cabinet or panel around the refrigerator gives a finished, built-in look. See panel-ready appliances and plan the layout in the kitchen cabinet designer.

Common questions

What is a counter-depth refrigerator?

A refrigerator made to sit closer to flush with standard kitchen cabinets. It looks built-in and leaves more walkway, with slightly less space inside.

What refrigerator style is best?

French door models suit most kitchens. Side-by-side works in tight aisles, and column units give a built-in look.

How much space does a refrigerator need?

The opening plus the ventilation and door clearance on the spec sheet. Measure hinges and the delivery path too.