The name “counter-depth” was coined because the refrigerator sits at the same level as the kitchen counter. That being said, if you are wondering how deep a counter-depth refrigerator is, it is typically 30 inches deep.
Traditional refrigerators, on the other hand, are usually about 36 inches deep. But counter-depth fridges tend to be wider (as wide as 36 inches) to offset the relative shallowness.
But then again, this isn’t a one-size-fits-all rule. This is why in this article, we will let you in on how to measure the depth of your counter-depth refrigerator while we clarify the differences between this refrigerator category and standard depth fridges.
How Deep is a Counter-Depth Refrigerator? – Differences between Counter-Depth and Standard Depth Fridges
Here are some common differences between counter-depth refrigerators and standard depth refrigerators:
Size – The standard depth refrigerators which include the side-by-side and French door refrigerators among others are generally larger and take up much room space. Counter-depth refrigerators, on the other hand, have less storage space than the standard depth refrigerators. As mentioned earlier, they are usually wider and shallower.
Aesthetics – Counter-depth refrigerators will make your kitchen look more pleasing than the standard depth fridges. While the counter-depth refrigerators lack depth, they are much taller. Nevertheless, never forget that the choice of whether or not to go for a counter-depth refrigerator depends on the space you have and surrounding cabinetry.
The depth of counter-depth refrigerators varies. Depending on the manufacturer and type of refrigerator, the depth of your refrigerator may range from 23 to 30 inches.
You can check out the video below to learn the differences and similarities between counter-depth refrigerators and standard-depth refrigerators:
Now, let’s show you how to measure the depth of your counter-depth refrigerator.
How Deep is a Counter-Depth Refrigerator? – How to Measure the Depth
The major tool you need to carry out measurements on your counter-depth refrigerator is a measuring tape.
To measure the depth of your refrigerator, place your tape against the wall and stretch it to the edge of your countertop.
For proper ventilation and to avoid problems with your refrigerator, later on, leave some space (about 1 inch) between the back of the refrigerator and the wall.
If you’re just going shopping for a counter-depth refrigerator, you should measure the depth with your counter before you head out to get the refrigerator.
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Measuring the Width and Height
Although you are most concerned about how deep your refrigerator is, you also have to know the width and height before purchasing your refrigerator.
So, to get the width, measure the area between both cabinets, i.e. the cabinet cutout. After taking the measurement, leave about half to one inch on both sides. This is to allow for proper ventilation of your refrigerator.
If one side of your counter-depth refrigerator is not a cabinet or counter but the wall, leave about two inches and a half. This is done so that your fridge door will open properly. If it’s too close to the wall, the door might not be able to swing open as it should.
The next thing to do is to measure the height of the fridge. To do this, extend the tape from the bottom of the cabinet above the refrigerator to the floor.
Remember to take out half an inch from your measurement for proper ventilation.
Do you have another refrigerator sitting in your home? Find out how to measure a refrigerator
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A Quick Recap
Determining how deep a counter-depth refrigerator depends on the space in your kitchen and the refrigerator you’re purchasing. But, the depth of a counter-depth fridge is usually between 23 and 30 inches.
Counter-depth refrigerators look great when placed in kitchens. And because they are not as deep as the standard depth refrigerators, they are suitable for people with fewer items than they would put in a standard refrigerator. Nevertheless, height and width make up for this space deficit.
By the way, when measuring the area around your refrigerator, leave at least an inch around the sides. So, your counter-depth refrigerator is always ventilated and your fridge is not overworked from overheating.