Before buying a new refrigerator, you need to ensure it fits your space, home, and needs. The last thing you want is to have your dream fridge delivered—only to realize it won’t fit through the door!
This guide by The Trade Table will show you exactly how to measure for a refrigerator so you can shop with confidence and avoid any delivery headaches.
Step 1: Measure the Delivery Path
Before measuring the fridge space in your kitchen, make sure it can actually get there!
✔ Measure doorways – Jamb to jamb. If doors need to be removed, check if you or the delivery team is responsible.
✔ Measure hallways & stairwells – Width, height, and any tight corners.
✔ Clear the path – Move furniture, rugs, or anything that might be in the way.
Pro Tip: If your fridge is a tight squeeze, remove the handles or doors to make it fit through!
Step 2: Measure Your Kitchen Space
Knowing standard refrigerator dimensions helps, but you must measure your space to ensure a perfect fit.
✔ Width: Measure at the widest & narrowest points at the countertop, base, and upper cabinet levels.
✔ Height: Measure floor to cabinet at the front and back (cabinets aren’t always level!). Use the shorter measurement.
✔ Depth: Measure from the back wall to the front edge of the counters.
✔ Island Clearance: If you have an island, make sure the fridge doors can open without hitting anything.
Pro Tip: Never measure your old fridge! Measure the space instead.
Step 3: Account for Clearance Space
Refrigerators need breathing room to run efficiently and prevent overheating.
✔ Back Clearance: At least 2 inches from the wall.
✔ Side Clearance: ⅛-inch on each side.
✔ Top Clearance: 1 inch below cabinets.
✔ Door Swing: Make sure fridge doors can fully open without hitting walls or cabinets.
Pro Tip: Check manufacturer recommendations for clearance space on your model!
Step 4: Understand Refrigerator Sizes
Standard Fridge Sizes:
✔ Top-Freezer: 28-33” W | 61-66” H | 28-34” D
✔ Bottom-Freezer: 29-33” W | 67-70” H | 33-34” D
✔ Side-by-Side: 32-40” W | 66-71” H | 30-31” D
✔ French Door: 29-36” W | 68-70” H | 29-35” D
✔ Counter-Depth: Designed to sit flush with counters for a built-in look.
Pro Tip: Choose a fridge size based on your household:
✔ 1-2 people: 4-13 cu. ft.
✔ 3-4 people: 14-24 cu. ft.
✔ 5+ people: 25+ cu. ft.
Step 5: Find the Right Cubic Feet
If you’re wondering, "What size fridge do I need?" here’s how to measure refrigerator cubic feet:
✔ Interior Width x Height x Depth = Cubic Feet
✔ Most fridges range from 10 to 35 cu. ft. of storage space.
Pro Tip: If you cook a lot or have a big family, go bigger—you’ll thank yourself later!
Buy a New Refrigerator
Now that you know how to measure for a refrigerator, you’re ready to shop with confidence! Avoid delivery disasters and find a fridge that fits perfectly in your space.
Need a new fridge? Shop top brands at The Trade Table for the best selection of refrigerators, freezers, and kitchen appliances!
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