What Is the Depth of a Counter-Depth Refrigerator?
Counter-depth refrigerators offer flexibility and style. They come in all shapes and sizes for any kitchen design.
If you’re remodeling a galley kitchen or any food preparation areas where space is at an absolute premium, counter-depth refrigerators are a great choice! While it is true that they offer less cubic footage than full-depth refrigerators, they’re a great way to make your kitchen appear less cramped, and they also add a real touch of class!
There are three types of refrigerators you can buy today. Standard depth refrigerators will protrude several inches into your kitchen from your cabinets and counters. Built-in refrigerators are a luxury option. Built-in refrigerators sit completely flush with your cabinets. Counter-depth refrigerators are moderately priced like standard depth refrigerators yet provide the upscale appearance of a built-in option.
Most of the leading manufacturers offer a wide selection of counter-depth refrigerators. They come in several styles and configurations, including side by side, top freezer, and bottom freezer configurations. And for a look that blends seamlessly into your kitchen decor, some models also accept paneling!
The standard depth for countertops is 24 inches, measured from the wall to the counter's edge. Remember that backsplashes aren't always included in that measurement, and tiled counters can also make a slight difference.
Most counter-depth refrigerators are about 24" deep, excluding the door and handles. The door and handles add a lot of depth. On average, you'll notice the total depth of counter depth refrigerators is approximately 28 inches deep. Since the counter depth measurement excludes the door and handles, you can often expect to see significant differences in reported dimensions on the manufacturers' product spec sheets. Each brand reports different door and handle depths.
When looking at the measurements of different refrigerator models in the most common widths of 30" to 36," you'll frequently see small space options as narrow as 24 inches and occasionally more than that on the largest models.
The differences in reported depths can be attributed to a number of factors, most notably what is included and isn't included in the measurement. Sometimes the reported depth is solely for the unit itself, and sometimes it also includes the coils in the back. Keep that in mind and you'll need to allow at least ⅜" of space behind the unit so that there's room for the plug, and to allow for proper ventilation.
Counter-depth refrigerators have a casement depth (excluding the door and handles) or 24 inches to be flush with the edge of counters and cabinets while allowing doors to open freely. Be sure that you measure all dimensions for your opening, and confirm that the refrigerator will fit properly before you get it home!
