Counter-Depth Refrigerator Sizes! (Read This First)

By - Ron Singh

Updated -

Counter-depth refrigerators are the perfect fit for your kitchen. They blend in with your cabinetry, giving your space a clean, streamlined look. It is a full-size freestanding unit with the same depth as a counter. 

This similarity allows it to fit under most kitchen cabinets without protruding into the main living area of your home like regular refrigerators do.

However, it is essential to know that not all counter-depth refrigerator sizes are created equal. Knowing what will fit into your space is essential before you buy one.

A counter-depth refrigerator is a full-size model that may or may not come with a freezer compartment. This counter-depth refrigerator has become quite popular, but there are upsides and downsides to consider before shopping for one. The refrigerator doors protrude past the counter (of about 24 inches) by at least 2 inches, so it goes anywhere.

What Is the Standard Size Of a Counter-depth Refrigerator?

Counter-Depth Refrigerator Sizes

A counter-depth refrigerator is an energy-efficient appliance designed to fit flush with cabinetry.

This type of refrigerator allows you to save space in your kitchen since it does not protrude out like other models.

Furthermore, the standard dimensions for a counter-depth refrigerator range from 30 to 36 inches wide, with the dimensions for the height ranging from 66 to 72 inches.

It can help you save money on appliance installation costs if you plan on installing your appliances instead of hiring professional contractors.

Other models, like built-in and under-counter refrigerators, usually fall outside the range of dimensions for counter-depth refrigerators.

Counter-depth Refrigerators tend to be more comprehensive and taller than standard-depth refrigerators by a narrow margin to make up for the shallower depth (and to avoid losing capacity). 

The capacity of a counter-depth refrigerator ranges from 15 to 25 cubic feet, with most counter-depth refrigerators having an average capacity of 22 cubic feet.

Consider the refrigerators’ doors, handles, and knobs when determining the Counter-depth Refrigerator dimensions.

They could lead to a change in the height, width, and depth measurements. Counter-depth refrigerators are also known as under-counter refrigerators.

This is because they are typically installed below cabinets or tucked in behind the kitchen countertop with limited space above it.

This means you have to mount these appliances on wheels so they can slide easily into place once unpacked.

Are All Counter-depth Refrigerators the Same Width?

To measure the width of a counter-depth refrigerator, start by measuring from the back wall to the front unit.

To measure the height of a counter-depth refrigerator, start from the floor, the bottom (freezer compartment), to the top.

The most common width for a counter-depth refrigerator is 30 inches, and 30 inches is considered standard. 

Some models have widths that extend up to 36 inches. Counter-depth refrigerators are typically 24 inches deep to accommodate many items.

If you shop for a counter-depth refrigerator, you will probably see several different models.

If you have ever shopped for a refrigerator before, you know that there are many different options regarding the size of your new appliance. You can find counter-depth refrigerators in all shapes and sizes.

When shopping for a new refrigerator, it is essential to consider both the size and features of your new appliance before making your purchase decision.

Do You Lose Space With a Counter-depth Refrigerator?

The answer is no. No, you do not lose space with a counter-depth model! On the contrary, you gain space since there isn’t an ugly door in your way!

 Counter-depth refrigerators have the same capacity as standard refrigerators. The only difference is that they are more profound than standard full-size refrigerators.

Counter-depth refrigerators are one of the most popular styles these days. The refrigerator is built into the countertop to flush with the rest of your kitchen.

This style gives you more room to prepare food and clean up. It also makes the refrigerator look sleek, modern, and out of sight.

So if you’re looking to save space in your kitchen, you should consider getting a counter-depth model.

You can still use that lovely counter space by placing items on top or underneath it if you have drawers under the cabinet.

Counter-depth refrigerators have designs that allow them to fit into existing cabinets without extra space.

In addition, they come in different sizes, so you can find one that fits perfectly in your kitchen. 

Just make sure that you sacrifice space for it. Make that space available! You can even find them online on sites like Amazon, so you do not have to leave home shopping for new appliances!

What Is the Difference Between Built-In And Counter-depth Refrigerators?

Many people are confused about the difference between built-in and counter-depth refrigerators.

The truth is that these two types of refrigerators are not quite the same. They do have some similarities, but there are also some significant differences.

Here are some of the differences between these two refrigerators:

Built-in RefrigeratorCounter-Depth Refrigerator
More difficult to installEasier to Install
Less StorageMore storage
More expensiveMore affordable
More customizableNot as many size options

#1. Cost

Built-in and counter-depth refrigerators are popular choices for homeowners looking to replace their old units.

However, there are some critical differences between the two that you should consider when making your decision: cost. Built-in refrigerators are more expensive than counter-depth refrigerators.

The most significant advantage to buying a built-in refrigerator is that it has the potential to use less energy than other types of refrigerators.

This advantage makes sense since you will not be opening and closing doors all day, allowing for more efficient cooling throughout the day.

#2. Installation

A built-in refrigerator has a design that makes it easy to install on your kitchen wall.

However, the installation process can take several hours and requires professional help to ensure everything is in place.

On the other hand, you can install a counter-depth refrigerator by yourself or an experienced contractor in a matter of minutes.

In most cases, you do not need to remove anything from your kitchen before installing a counter-depth refrigerator.

It simply fits into the space between your stove and cabinets without additional work.

#3. Storage

It is nearly impossible to spot an integrated refrigerator in a kitchen with shut refrigerator doors.

Unlike Counter-depth Refrigerators, built-in refrigerators typically have less storage due to their shallower depth.

Also, counter-depth refrigerators have values ranging from 30-36 inches in depth. They are taller and broader when compared with standard-depth refrigerators, so you do not lose any storage space.

Built-in refrigerators are hidden behind cabinetry, while counter-depth refrigerators sit on the countertop.

Both types of refrigerators can be an excellent solution for those looking for a modern look in their kitchen or outdoor living space.

The main difference between built-in and counter-depth refrigerators is their depth. Built-in refrigerators typically have less storage due to their shallower depth.

Counter-depth refrigerators, on the other hand, will offer more storage space but may not fit in tight spaces or cabinets.

Why Are Counter-depth Refrigerators Not Counter-depth?

Counter-depth is a term that refers to the distance between the front of your kitchen countertops and your back wall.

These refrigerators usually have values that range from 24-30 inches in depth, which is a bit shallower than most fridges.

This refrigerator will line up with the end of your cabinets and fit in nicely with the modern-day designs of your kitchen. 

Counter-depth also refers to a term retailers use often and misleads many people because the actual measurement can vary between the standard counter-depth of 25 inches to 30 inches. 

Like in a large kitchen, it is customary to find cabinets at the bottom much deeper than the standard 24-inch depth, and the counter will protrude further, usually by an inch.

Counter-depth refrigerators are an excellent option for small kitchens. They have designs that allow them to fit snugly into the space between your cabinets and counters, so there is no wasted space.

Counter-depth refrigerators also have a clean, streamlined look that can help create a stylish kitchen.

When considering buying a counter-depth refrigerator, it is essential to know about all the different sizes available.

The size of your kitchen will determine how large a refrigerator you need and which options are available in that size range.

Conclusion

Counter-depth refrigerators are an excellent option for those who have smaller kitchens or need to find more space in their kitchen.

Counter-depth refrigerators are ideal for smaller spaces, as they do not take up as much room compared to traditional side-by-side refrigerators/freezers.

Therefore, they should be a great option if you are looking to maximize your kitchen space.

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