Best Undercounter Refrigerators of 2025

Undercounter refrigerators are becoming more popular than ever thanks to many consumers opting for a counter-depth model for their main refrigerator. When you make the switch from a full depth to counter depth refrigerator, you lose an average of 4 cubic feet. A great way to make up for lost capacity is to get an undercounter refrigerator. Not only will you free up much-needed space in your new refrigerator, but your guests will appreciate not having to dig behind your leftovers to access a drink. With kitchen sizes increasing and the trend toward fully-equipped indoor and outdoor entertainment spaces, homeowners are realizing the value of adding extra refrigeration to their homes.

As your appliance authority, AjMadison not only wants to offer you the best undercounter refrigerators for your home, but also empower you to shop our wide selection of undercounter fridges like an appliance pro! Let’s go through all there is to know about undercounter refrigerators before checking out what our top picks have to offer.

Why Buy an Undercounter Refrigerator?

Aside from supplementing your main refrigerator’s cold storage capacity, there are plenty of additional benefits you’ll enjoy when adding an undercounter unit to your kitchen:

• Better Organization – Undercounter fridges let you declutter your main fridge of bottles, cans, and other small items that make it hard to navigate. Select models can include a freezer box, an ice maker, and other accessories that accommodate your storage needs.

• Easy Accessibility – Undercounter fridges are easier for people with disabilities to use since they don’t have to reach up to shelving as they would with a full-size refrigerator. They also allow children to self-serve, so they can enjoy a small degree of independence when their snack cravings hit.

• Precise Temperature Controls – Similar to full-size models, many undercounter refrigerators are equipped with precise temperature controls, making them suitable for storing wine, beer, cheese, or any other specialty items.

• Quiet, Energy-Efficient Operation – Since there is less space to cool in an undercounter fridge, the compressor does not have to run as often, resulting in less humming and electricity waste.

• Versatile Installation Options – Many brands design their undercounter fridges to be both freestanding and built-in compatible. This means if you ever decide to swap your undercounter unit for a new model, the old one can be kept in your basement, garage, home bar, or anywhere else you want convenient access to cold drinks without walking to the kitchen.

Undercounter Refrigerator Configuration Types

Undercounter fridges generally share the solid door appearance of their full-size counterparts, but plenty of brands offer alternative configuration types to match various kitchen styles, physical needs, and installation locations. These include:

• Glass Door Refrigerators – Showcase your drink collection in style! Glass door undercounter refrigerators are often equipped with LED lighting to brilliantly display what you store in them without raising the internal temperature. Many glass doors are also given a low-E coating designed to reflect heat radiation from the sun or other light sources, ensuring their efficiency.

• Drawer Refrigerators – Bending over to access an undercounter unit is not ideal for everyone. Drawer-style fridges allow you to reach down into them from a standing position, which is great for people with back or knee issues. For more storage capacity, drawer fridges also come in double drawer models, so you can put your most used items in the top drawer without exposing items in the lower drawer to warm air!

• Panel Ready Refrigerators – Equip your undercounter fridge with a custom panel to match surrounding cabinetry! Whether you’re crafting a designer kitchen or just want a minimalist aesthetic, panel ready units are easy to integrate into any kitchen suite. If you ever redesign your kitchen, all you have to do is swap out the panel instead of buying a whole new appliance to match it.

• Outdoor Refrigerators – Outdoor-rated units make it easy to entertain in your outdoor kitchen without having to go in and out of your home to get food or drinks. These units are crafted with high-grade insulation, weatherproof designs, and tight seals to maintain optimal cold storage conditions.

Do Undercounter Refrigerators Need Ventilation?

Like a normal fridge, undercounter units generate heat during operation, so you’ll need an outlet to prevent damage to the appliance or surrounding cabinetry. Many high-end undercounter refrigerator models have bottom front vents to minimize the cutout clearance you need to install them, but this is not always the case. Always check the manufacturer's recommendations for ventilation clearance around the refrigerator you purchase. This may include requirements for clearance above, behind, and on the sides of the unit to allow for adequate airflow. Select units also come with adjustable feet to set their heights for optimal airflow. Avoid installing them in areas with prolonged sunlight or heat source exposure to prevent the compressor from overworking and generating more heat.

How Long Do Undercounter Refrigerators Last?

On average, a well-maintained undercounter refrigerator can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years. Some strategies for making your undercounter fridge last a long time are:

• Regular Cleaning – Wipe down both the interior and exterior of your unit to prevent dirt, dust, or food particles from accumulating. Make sure to inspect door seals, dust the condenser coils to prevent overheating, and clear obstructed vents.

• Follow Recommended Temperature Settings – Follow the manufacturers guidelines regarding temperature settings to ensure optimal cooling performance and energy efficiency. Setting the fridge too low can overwork the compressor and strain its cooling system.

• Handle Your Fridge Gently – If your fridge does not have soft-closing hinges, avoid slamming it shut as this can damage hinges and seals.

• Keep Sharp Objects Away From It – Sharp items should not be placed on or in your fridge, as these can puncture insulation and other soft materials critical to temperature regulation.

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