New Code Sent!
Refrigerator sizes: how to measure fridge dimensions
Finding a refrigerator with convenient features that is also the right size for your kitchen can be easy when you know what to look for. Follow this guide to refrigerator sizes for everything you need to know to assess your space and find the right fridge for your kitchen and your family.
What are standard refrigerator sizes?
Although the average size of a refrigerator varies depending on the type of fridge (bottom freezer, top freezer, French door or side-by-side), standard refrigerator dimensions often fall between 24 to 40 inches wide, 61 to 72 inches tall and 28 to 37 inches deep, with depth extending to about 45 inches with the refrigerator door fully ajar—though dimensions may vary by model.
Learn more about the standard refrigerator sizes for the four types of fridges with the refrigerator sizes chart below.
Refrigerator capacity explained
Refrigerator capacity is the total interior space for food storage, measured in cubic feet. To calculate it, multiply the refrigerator’s length × width × depth (in inches) and divide by 1,728 (the number of cubic inches in one cubic foot).
For example, if a refrigerator measures 24 inches wide × 70 inches tall × 24 inches deep, multiply 24 × 70 × 24 to get the total cubic inches. Then divide that number by 1,728 to find the volume—about 23.3 cubic feet.
The definitions of small, medium and large capacity can vary widely—there’s no hard-and-fast rule. You may find larger models than those listed here, or smaller ones like undercounter fridges. But, in general, you can expect the following ranges:
Small refrigerators: 11 to 13 cu. ft.
Medium refrigerators: 14 to 21 cu. ft.
- Large refrigerators: 22 to 31+ cu. ft.
Sizes by refrigerator type
Refrigerators come in a range of sizes and styles, each offering unique benefits depending on your space, storage needs and design preferences. Whether you want a compact top-freezer model or a large-capacity French door refrigerator, understanding the typical size ranges by type can help you find the best fit for your kitchen layout and lifestyle.
French door refrigerators
Built-in storage bins let you organize with ease
French door refrigerator dimensions
On average, the size of a French door refrigerator often falls within the range of 29 to 36 inches wide, 68 to 72 inches inches tall and 28 to 37 inches deep, with depth extending to about 45 inches deep with the fridge doors opened. They range from 19 to 31 cubic feet in capacity, though the specific dimensions often vary by model.
Shop Whirlpool® French Door Refrigerators
Whirlpool® French Door Refrigerators can help keep your produce neat and fresh. Some with slightly larger dimensions, like this Whirlpool® 23 cu. ft. French door refrigerator, feature an EasyReach Zone and adjustable divider that provides countless ways to keep tall items organized. Slightly smaller models, including this Whirlpool® 20 cu. ft. French door refrigerator, offer Humidity-Controlled Crispers, which store fruits and vegetables in their ideal environment. This Whirlpool® 36-Inch French door model includes Large Capacity Freezer Ice Storage, which stores over 7 lbs of ice with a built-in ice maker in the freezer. Use it to fill the cooler, or turn it off for additional frozen storage space.
Whirlpool® 4 Door Refrigerators
Flexibility for the whole family
Flexible organization spaces make it easy to store your family’s favorites, from frozen meals to healthy snacks
4-door refrigerator dimensions
4-door refrigerators are often within the range of around 36 inches wide, 69-70 inches tall and 24 to 33 deep, although some models may vary. When the doors are open to 90 degrees, the depth can extend to roughly 49 inches. Specific dimensions may vary depending on the model.
Shop Whirlpool® 4-Door Fridges
Whirlpool® 4-Door Refrigerators offer different types of storage. Some, like this 4-door model from Whirlpool brand, feature Pull-Out Freezer Shelves, which keep large items like a 20-lb turkey neatly in place for easy access. Other models, like this Whirlpool® 4-Door Refrigerator, offer a Refrigerated Exterior Drawer to keep the items you use most within easy reach. An exterior drawer gives you additional refrigeration space and lets you adjust temperature controls and dividers based on what you’re storing.
Whirlpool® Refrigerators
A refrigerator for every kitchen
Whether you need extra freezer space or an exterior ice and water dispenser, Whirlpool brand has refrigerator options for you
Side-by-side refrigerator dimensions
On average, the size of a side-by-side refrigerator tends to fall into the range of 30 to 36 inches wide, 66 to 70 inches tall and 29 to 35 inches deep, though this may vary by model. The refrigerator depth can extend up to roughly 45 inches with the doors ajar, while the capacity generally ranges from 21 to 28 cubic feet, though again, some models vary.
Shop Whirlpool® Side-by-Side Refrigerators
Whirlpool® Side-by-Side Refrigerators can fit well into many kitchen configurations. Some models, like this Whirlpool® Side-By-Side Refrigerator, feature a Counter-Depth Design, which is more integrated with your counter for a built-in look. Other Whirlpool® Refrigerators, like this side-by-side model, have In-Door Ice & Water, with an ice bin that’s been moved to the door, so you get an extra full shelf in the freezer.
Top-freezer refrigerator dimensions
On average, a top-freezer refrigerator falls into the range of 24 to 33 inches in width, 61 to 69 inches in height and 28 to 35 inches in depth. The depth extends about 27 inches with the door open to 90 degrees, though these dimensions may vary by model.
With standard capacities ranging from roughly 10 to 21 cu. ft., this refrigerator type can be ideal for smaller spaces and typically boasts 4 to 5 cu.ft. of freezer capacity.
Even though they tend to come in smaller packages compared to other configurations, these models can still pack a punch. For instance, coming in at just under 30 inches wide, this Whirlpool® Top-Freezer Refrigerator boasts 19.3 cu. ft. of space. “If you are searching to get the best value out of your purchase, this refrigerator brings you great capacity at a good price with reliable craftsmanship and aesthetics,” says Whirlpool Product Marketing Director for Refrigeration, Ingrid Sanchez.
Top freezer refrigerators
Keep your frozen favorites conveniently at eye level
Shop Whirlpool® Top-Freezer Refrigerators
Whirlpool® Top-Freezer Refrigerators can add a classic touch to your kitchen. Some models, like this Whirlpool® Top-Freezer Refrigerator, feature Flexi-Slide™ Bins, which quickly and easily move side to side for convenient storage options. Other Whirlpool® models, like this top-freezer refrigerator, offer Humidity-Controlled Crispers, to store fruits and vegetables in their ideal environment.
Bottom freezer refrigerators
Easily access fresh ingredients when you need them
Bottom-freezer refrigerator dimensions
In general, the average size of a bottom-freezer refrigerator falls within the range of 24 to 33 inches in width, 67 to 71 inches in height and 27 to 34 inches in depth, with the depth extending to roughly 50 inches with the door ajar. Some models may vary.
These models typically range from 12 to 22 cubic feet with the freezer accounting for roughly ⅓ of the total capacity. That said, dimensions may vary depending on the model.
Shop Whirlpool® Bottom-Freezer Refrigerators
Whirlpool® Bottom-Freezer Refrigerators offer generous storage as well as convenient features. Some Whirlpool® models, like this bottom-freezer refrigerator, feature SpillGuard™ Glass Shelves, which help you contain leaks and spills for easier cleanup while the transparent design gives the refrigerator’s interior a cleaner, brighter appearance. Some other models, like this Whirlpool® Bottom-Freezer Refrigerator, offer Exterior Digital Temperature Controls, which allow you to easily adjust the temperature without opening the refrigerator door and are as easy to clean as they are to use.
Tip:
While these are good benchmarks for the average refrigerator size in every type, you should still check your specific refrigerator’s dimensions online or in store, as some models vary from these general estimates.
How to measure for a new refrigerator
To effectively measure for a new fridge, you will need to determine the refrigerator depth, width and height. Be mindful to account for a few inches of breathing room for proper ventilation, as well as extra space for the refrigerator doors to fully open.
What you’ll need:
This guide
Measuring tape
Pencil and paper
Step 1: Measure for refrigerator width
Measure from the wall to the counter, cabinet to cabinet or anything that may be on either side of your refrigerator space.
NOTE: If your refrigerator is located next to a wall, leave 2½ inches between the wall and the hinge side of the door so it can swing open.
How wide are refrigerators?
Refrigerator width ranges tend to fall roughly between 24 to 33 inches wide for slim top-freezer and bottom-freezer models, with wider side-by-side and French door fridges extending to 36 inches. Of course, some models may vary.
With doors fully ajar, depth may increase to 45 to 50 inches deep.
If you have a counter-depth refrigerator—a fridge that aligns more flush with countertops than standard models—be mindful that it will likely measure a few inches wider than standard refrigerators.
Step 2: Measure for refrigerator height
If you have cabinets above your refrigerator cutout, measure from the floor to the bottom of the cabinets.
How tall are refrigerators?
Standard refrigerator heights generally range from 61 to 70 inches tall, with French door and side-by-side models measuring on the taller end and bottom-freezer and top-freezer units trending toward the shorter end. Some models may vary.
Counter-depth refrigerators sometimes measure a few inches taller than standard refrigerators.
Whirlpool® Undercounter Refrigerators are counter-height and tend to fall on the shorter end at roughly 35 inches tall.
Step 3: Measure for refrigerator depth
To determine refrigerator depth, measure from the back wall, forward to the edge of your countertop and beyond, depending on the depth of the refrigerator you’re looking to purchase. These dimensions should be roughly 24 to 37 inches deep, though some models vary.
For best practices, make sure to record each of the following for the most accurate and comprehensive refrigerator dimensions to ensure the best fit:
Depth including fridge doors
- Depth excluding fridge doors
- Depth with fridge closed (including handles)
Depth with fridge closed (excluding handles)
Depth with fridge door open at 90 degrees
Depth with fridge door and drawers open
Be mindful to allow at least one inch of extra space between the back of your refrigerator and the wall for proper ventilation.
Additionally, if you have a kitchen island or are limited on space, measure the area in front of the refrigerator to ensure that the doors and drawers can fully open. Also, be sure to measure a path through your house, to be sure you can get the refrigerator into place.
How deep are refrigerators?
Refrigerators are categorized between counter-depth and standard-depth models, with refrigerator depth ranging roughly from 24 to 37 inches deep.
Counter-depth fridges are designed to be more aligned with the edges of countertops than standard models and generally measure between 24 to 30 inches deep, whereas standard-depth appliances may extend to 30 to 37 inches.
Despite shallow depth, Whirlpool® Counter-Depth Refrigerators are generally slightly wider and taller than some standard-depth models, allowing the appliance to maintain optimal capacity. Some models may vary.
Does your kitchen have an island?
Measure the space in front of the refrigerator so doors and drawers can open without getting dinged.
Step 4: Adjust measurements for ventilation space
Now that you have your refrigerator dimensions, add ½ inch on all sides to ensure proper ventilation. This will help the appliance to run at its optimal ability.
Allow for ½ inch of space on either side of the fridge
Allow for ½ inch of space above the fridge
Allow for ½ inch of space between the back of the fridge and the wall
Accounting for this extra clearance for proper ventilation is key. Without it, your fridge may consume more energy than necessary and become damaged.
Step 5: Map out and measure a path for refrigerator delivery
It fits your needs and fits your space, but how is it getting there? From the nearest entrance to your kitchen, measure the width of every hallway and doorway to ensure your new fridge can make it through.
What size refrigerator do I need?
Your optimal fridge size and style will vary depending on your kitchen space and family needs. As a rule of thumb, 4 to 6 cu. ft. of fridge space per person is sufficient. About 20 cu. ft. of storage is ideal for a family of four, but this depends on how you plan to use your refrigerator’s interior space. Larger families may benefit from a refrigerator with over 25 cu. ft. of storage space.
If you’re looking to maximize your freezer capacity, consider adding an additional freezer to your space. Learn about standalone freezer sizes and dimensions to find the ideal model for your family.
Save space with apartment-sized refrigerators
Does a counter-depth refrigerator fit in your kitchen?
Small refrigerator sizes
Overall, small, apartment-sized refrigerator dimensions tend to be slimmer with an average width of about 24 inches or so, yet maintain standard heights around 70 inches—though these dimensions may be different depending on the model. The common capacity for these models can range from 11 to 13 cu. ft. Dorm size or mini-fridge dimensions can be 4 to 5 cu. ft.
If you are looking for a space-saving appliance that does not sacrifice features such as an ice maker, a small fridge may be right for you.
Refrigerators with ice makers
Access fresh filtered water and ice without ever opening the refrigerator door
Shop Whirlpool® small-sized refrigerators
Whirlpool brand offers small-sized refrigerators that can fit into tighter spaces without losing functionality. Whirlpool® models, such as this small space top-freezer refrigerator, offer Adaptive Defrost. Other models, like this Whirlpool® Undercounter Refrigerator, feature a Reversible Stainless Steel Door,which can be installed on either side to accommodate unique spaces.
Medium refrigerator sizes
On average, a medium refrigerator size is around 24 to 32 inches wide, 66 to 70 inches tall and 29 to 36 inches deep. However, depending on the model, those dimensions may vary. A medium refrigerator with 20 cu. ft. can be ideal for a family of four.
Shop Whirlpool® medium refrigerators
Whirlpool® medium refrigerators can fulfill many needs. Some models, like this Whirlpool® French Door Refrigerator, offer the FreshFlow™ Produce Preserver, which keeps fruits and veggies in the ideal environment to help produce stay fresher longer.1 Other refrigerators, such as this slightly smaller Whirlpool® model, feature Frameless Glass Shelves, which enable you to store more items on each shelf.
Large refrigerator sizes
Large refrigerator sizes are typically in the range of 36 inches wide, more than 70 inches tall, and 33 to 35 inches deep. Capacity can range anywhere from 22 to 31+ cu. ft. to accommodate your family’s storage needs. Some models may vary from these sizes.
Shop Whirlpool® large-sized refrigerators
Whirlpool® large-sized refrigerators can accommodate many of your food and beverage storage needs. Some Whirlpool® models, like this 36-Inch French door refrigerator, offer a Pizza Pocket, which easily stores frozen pizzas upright without the hassle of trying to fit them on flat freezer shelves. Other models, like this Whirlpool® French Door Bottom-Mount Refrigerator, offer Adjustable Shelves, which can easily be moved up and down to make room for wide and tall items.
Find your new Whirlpool® Refrigerator
Still shopping for a new refrigerator or planning to move to a new home? With an array of options to suit kitchens of all shapes and sizes, Whirlpool brand can help you find your family’s fit. Learn more about different types of refrigerators or explore the complete fridge collection from Whirlpool brand. Learn more about finding the right appliances for your kitchen, such as how to measure for the right size dishwasher.
Shop top-rated Whirlpool® refrigerators
There is a Whirlpool® Refrigerator that can fit most kitchens and style preferences. Some, like this side-by-side Whirlpool® model, offer Electronic Temperature Controls up front so you can choose the ideal temperature for whatever you’re storing. Other models, like this Whirlpool® 4-Door Refrigerator, are Fingerprint Resistant. Available in a stainless finish, this easy-to-clean exterior resists fingerprints and smudges.
Was this article helpful? Pass it on
Explore more from Whirlpool brand
home heartbeat
Ready for more tips, home hacks and appliance guides?
1 Based on commonly purchased produce.
