The answer to this question largely depends on your personal preferences and the space in your kitchen. Counter-depth refrigerators are shallower and fit more seamlessly with your kitchen countertops, but can be more expensive, have less capacity and less flexibility for door configuration.
Standard-depth refrigerators are typically more affordable and have more capacity, but they may not fit in as well with the kitchen space. If you have limited kitchen space and need to maximize counter space, counter-depth refrigerators are probably a better choice.
On the other hand, if you have a larger kitchen and need more interior capacity, then a standard-depth refrigerator may be a better match. Ultimately, you should consider what your specific needs and preferences are, as well as the overall design of the kitchen and if counter-depth or standard-depth refrigerators are the best choice.
Do I want standard or counter-depth refrigerator?
When deciding between standard and counter-depth refrigerators, it’s important to consider the space you have available in your kitchen, as well as the look and feel of your kitchen’s overall design.
Standard refrigerators have a more classic look and tend to protrude more out from the counter, while counter-depth refrigerators are built to rest flush with your counters.
When it comes to space, counter-depth refrigerators will require less room since they won’t protrude out from your cabinets or counters, meaning that you may be able to fit one in a space that wouldn’t typically allow for a standard refrigerator.
However, in addition to requiring less floor space, counter-depth refrigerators also tend to have smaller capacity and fewer shelving options than standard refrigerators. As such, you’ll want to keep your household size, food storage needs, and current kitchen design in mind when making a decision.
Ultimately, it depends on your personal needs and aesthetic preferences. Standard refrigerators are a classic choice that often have superior capacity and shelving options, while counter-depth refrigerators have the advantage of being more streamlined in design.
Are counter-depth refrigerators more expensive than regular?
Yes, counter-depth refrigerators are typically more expensive than regular-depth refrigerators. The added cost is usually due to needing shallower and wider cabinets to accommodate the shallower refrigerator, along with the cost of the smaller footprint of the counter-depth model.
In addition, counter-depth models tend to have higher-end features, like a sleek look or better insulation, which can also add to the cost. Finally, since counter-depth refrigerators are more compact, they lack some storage space that larger models may have, making them more expensive for comparable options.
Despite the additional cost, counter-depth refrigerators are becoming increasingly popular due to their modern, streamlined look and the fact that they take up less space in the kitchen.
How far should refrigerator stick out from counter?
The amount of space needed between the refrigerator and the counter will vary based on the appliance and the kitchen design. Generally, the refrigerator should be set at least 12 inches away from the counterso that you have adequate counter space and so that the refrigerator allows for adequate air circulation.
When purchasing an appliance, it’s important to measure the space where the refrigerator will fit, as well as measure all the countertop and other surfaces that the refrigerator will come very close to or that it will touch.
Make sure you have at least 2 inches of clearance between the fridge and any other wall area as well. This will allow enough space for a person to open the doors of the refrigerator and to also move around the fridge if a repair is ever needed.
Once installed, check the refrigerator seals and make sure the door closes properly, as poor installation can lead to weatherization issues, handling and running issues, and other problems down the line.
Is a counter-depth refrigerator the same as a built in refrigerator?
No, a counter-depth refrigerator is not the same as a built-in refrigerator. Counter-depth refrigerators are freestanding and do not require extra installation work since they fit flush with the counters and cabinets.
In contrast, built-in refrigerators require installation work and do not fit flush with the counters and cabinets, as they are slightly bigger in size and must be built into a wall. Depending on the make or model, a counter-depth refrigerator may have similar features to a built-in refrigerator, but it is not the same.
Does a refrigerator need breathing space?
Yes, a refrigerator needs breathing space. Without adequate breathing space, a refrigerator would not be able to run efficiently and could overheat, leading to potential problems such as fires and dangerous levels of carbon monoxide.
It is recommended that a refrigerator be placed at least three to four inches away from the wall to provide adequate room for air circulation. Additionally, the refrigerator should have at least one inch of space on each side to ensure maximum efficiency.
This allows fresh air to enter the back and top of the refrigerator and provide cooling. If the refrigerator is too close to walls, furniture, or other appliances, it may not be able to pull in air properly and reduce its cooling efficiency.
Furthermore, refrigerators can be quite noisy and if not given adequate space, the noise level may increase. It is therefore beneficial to give your refrigerator adequate room to breathe to ensure its efficiency, safety, and reduce the noise.
Can fridge be flush with cabinets?
Yes, fridges can be flush with cabinets. To achieve this look, you will need to purchase a cabinet-depth refrigerator and adjoining cabinetry to create the flush effect. Cabinet-depth refrigerators are shallower than standard models and when adjoined with the same brand’s corresponding cabinetry, the illusion of a continuous line can be created.
When shopping for a cabinet depth refrigerator, consider the size and capacity of your family’s needs. This type of refrigerator is not as spacious as a traditional model and is more expensive. Additionally, you’ll need to make sure that the brand you choose can accommodate the installation of the appliance in a flush mount configuration.
Consideration of factors, such as countertop and wall height and overall cost of installation are important to properly installing your cabinet-depth refrigerator.
Does depth of fridge matter?
Yes, the depth of a fridge does matter – depending on the size and layout of your kitchen, it may be important to pay attention to how far it sticks out from the counter or wall. A standard depth of fridge may stick out too far and be difficult to open the doors if it is located in a small kitchen.
Deeper fridges can help reduce this issue, while also providing more storage space. However, it’s important to factor in how this might affect other kitchen features such as the sink or counter space.
Depending on the model and type of fridge, some have adjustable shelves and door bins that can help save even more space. Ultimately, the best fridge for your needs depends on the size and layout of your kitchen, and what you plan to store in it.
What size is a standard refrigerator?
The average size of a standard refrigerator is around 23–26 cubic feet. This size generally consists of two separate compartments. One of the compartments is for the freezer, which is typically about 5-7 cu ft.
The other is for the fridge itself, which is around 16-19 cu ft. Additionally, many newer models of refrigerators come in counter-depth sizes which are shallower, around 22-24 inches deep, allowing them to fit more easily into tight spaces like kitchens with shallow counters or cabinets.
What is the most popular refrigerator size?
The most popular refrigerator size is usually around 23 to 36 cubic feet. Refrigerators in this range are the most popular size because they are large enough to hold enough items for a family, while still fitting in most kitchen spaces.
Refrigerators of this size come in a variety of styles, colors, and features, so you can find the one that fits your needs. Many of these refrigerators also come with advanced features such as humidity and temperature control, energy-saving settings, and water and ice dispensers.
How do I choose the right size refrigerator?
Choosing the right size refrigerator can be a daunting task. It’s important to consider the size of the space that’s available for a refrigerator and the size of your family. Before you go shopping for a new refrigerator, measure the space you have available and determine the maximum dimensions that will fit.
Also keep in mind any special needs that your family may have, such as storing additional bulk items, wine bottles or having a separate freezer.
When considering the overall size of a refrigerator, there are a few key metrics to look at to make sure you’re getting the right appliance for your space and needs. Most full-size refrigerators are between 30 and 36 inches wide, while counter-depth refrigerators are usually 24-30 inches wide and kitchen cabinets are typically 24 inches deep.
Your refrigerator should fit comfortably in the space you have.
You’ll also need to consider how much storage space you need. A family of four typically needs between 19-22 cubic feet; however, if you’re limited on space and need something smaller, you may opt for a mini-fridge or refrigerator-freezer combo.
Finally, look at features such as adjustable shelves and drawers, built-in ice makers and temperature controls. If these features are important to you, make sure to look for them when shopping. Also, pay attention to manufacturer warranties, energy rating and estimated yearly running cost.
With so many factors to consider, it can be a challenge to choose the right size refrigerator, but if you’re aware of the space and needs of your family, you’ll be able to find the perfect refrigerator for your home.
What size refrigerator do I need for a family of 2?
When choosing the right size refrigerator for a family of two, there are certain things you need to take into consideration. The most important factors to consider are how much space you have available to fit the refrigerator, the type of food you typically purchase, and how often you do your grocery shopping.
To determine the best size for a family of two, you should typically look for a refrigerator that is between 3-4 cubic feet in size. This size offers enough room for food going in and out with relative ease and stores a large variety of items.
Depending on your individual needs, such as if you purchase a lot of bulk items or do weekly/bi-weekly grocery shopping, you may need to go up to a 5-6 cubic feet size. This size offers a large capacity for storing food and works well for larger shopping trips or for those who prefer bulk-buying.
It is essential when choosing a refrigerator to consider not only the size of the family but also the type of food you typically purchase and your individual grocery shopping habits. With these important factors in mind, you should be able to determine what size refrigerator is best for a family of two.
Why are new refrigerators so deep?
New refrigerators are designed to be deeper for a variety of reasons. First, home designs have changed significantly since refrigerators first came onto the market. Over time, kitchens have become smaller, and the deeper design of new fridges allows for more storage space without taking up more room in the kitchen.
Additionally, deeper fridges can help increase efficiency. The addition of a deeper design offers more air space to help cool faster and maintain the temperature. By increasing the air space, a deep refrigerator design is able to provide more evenly cooled food, increasing food freshness.
Another benefit of a deeper height is the ability to store taller or bulkier items, like bottles of soda, larger platters of food, or two-liter containers. In fact, due to increased storage, modern refrigerators are able to hold up to 30% more food than previous models.
Lastly, deeper designs also allow for features such as adjustable shelves, drawers, and other storage options, making it easier to customize to your needs.
Will a 36 refrigerator fit in a 36 opening?
Yes, a 36 refrigerator will typically fit in a 36 inch opening. It is important to measure both the width and depth of the refrigerator to ensure that it will fit in the available space, as it is not always true that the width is equal to the depth.
Additionally, check the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure that the refrigerator is within the size constraints of the space and that all of the appliances accessories (hinges, handles, etc. ) will all fit.
If necessary, you may have to make adjustments to the opening to ensure that the refrigerator fits properly.
Which style refrigerator has the most usable space?
The style of refrigerator with the most usable space is a side-by-side refrigerator. This style refrigerator typically features two drawers on either side of the refrigerator and a top freezer compartment in the center.
The side-by-side design maximizes the usable space, making it easier to organize and access your food items. The upright design also allows for deeper shelves, which increases the storage capacity. Additionally, the shelves have an adjustable height, making it easier to fit different shaped items in the refrigerator.
The combination of these features allows for a large amount of storage space while still having easy access to all of your food.