Refrigerators are an essential appliance in every modern household. They are used to keep our food fresh and preserve perishable items for a longer duration. When it comes to purchasing a new refrigerator, one of the most important factors to consider is the size. Knowing what size refrigerator you need is crucial to ensure that it fits perfectly in your kitchen space and meets your storage requirements. In this article, we will discuss how to measure and determine the right size refrigerator for your needs.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Size
Selecting the right size refrigerator is important for several reasons. Firstly, it ensures that the refrigerator fits properly in the designated space in your kitchen. It is essential to measure the height, width, and depth of the available space accurately. Secondly, choosing the appropriate size refrigerator guarantees sufficient storage capacity for your household’s needs. Buying a refrigerator that is too small will result in insufficient storage space, while purchasing one that is too large might lead to wastage of energy and unused space.
Measure the Height, Width, and Depth
Before you begin the process of measuring for a new refrigerator, it is necessary to empty and unplug your existing refrigerator if you have one. This will help you have a clear and unobstructed view of the available space. To measure the height, width, and depth accurately, follow these steps:
1. Height: Using a measuring tape, measure from the floor to the top of the space where the refrigerator will be placed. Make sure to measure the shortest and tallest points, as the space might not be perfectly level.
2. Width: Measure the width of the space by measuring the distance between the walls that will accommodate the refrigerator. Again, measure at the narrowest point and the widest point to account for any irregularities.
3. Depth: Measure the depth of the space by measuring from the back wall to the front edge of the surrounding cabinets or countertops. This will give you an idea of how deep the refrigerator can be without protruding excessively.
Consider the Door Swing
Another factor to consider when measuring for a new refrigerator is the door swing. The door swing refers to the direction in which the refrigerator door opens. It is important to assess the available space, especially if the refrigerator will be placed near a wall or another appliance. You need to ensure that there is enough clearance for the door to open fully without any obstructions. Take note of whether the door swings to the left or right and plan accordingly.
Calculating the Required Storage Capacity
Determining the required storage capacity of your refrigerator depends on various factors, such as the size of your household, eating habits, and whether you often entertain guests. To calculate the required storage capacity, consider the following guidelines:
1. Household Size: As a general rule, each person in the household requires around 4 to 6 cubic feet of fresh food storage capacity. For example, a family of four would need a refrigerator with a capacity of 16 to 24 cubic feet.
2. Cooking Habits: If you frequently cook at home or store large amounts of leftovers, you may need additional freezer space. A good guideline is to have at least 1 to 1.5 cubic feet of freezer space per person in the household.
3. Entertaining Guests: If you frequently host gatherings or parties, you might need extra storage space to accommodate the additional food and beverages. Consider increasing the storage capacity of the refrigerator accordingly.
Types of Refrigerators
After measuring the space and determining the required storage capacity, you can explore different types of refrigerators that suit your needs. Here are a few common types:
1. Top Freezer
Top freezer refrigerators are the most traditional and budget-friendly option. As the name suggests, the freezer is located at the top, while the refrigerator compartment is below. These refrigerators generally have a smaller footprint and are suitable for smaller households or kitchens with limited space.
2. Bottom Freezer
Bottom freezer refrigerators are similar to top freezer models but with the freezer compartment at the bottom. This design allows for more convenient access to the refrigerator section, which is used more frequently. These refrigerators are ideal if you have back problems or prefer easy reach to fresh food items.
3. Side-by-Side
As the name implies, side-by-side refrigerators feature two vertical doors that open from the middle. One side is dedicated to the refrigerator, while the other side is for the freezer. These models offer a good balance of fresh food and freezer space and often come with various features like water and ice dispensers.
4. French Door
French door refrigerators are gaining popularity due to their elegant design and spacious interiors. They feature two narrow doors for the refrigerator section and a wide drawer-style freezer at the bottom. These refrigerators offer ample storage capacity and provide easy access to both fresh and frozen items.
5. Compact and Mini
Compact and mini refrigerators are ideal for small apartments, dorm rooms, or as an additional unit for storing beverages or snacks. They are smaller in size and have limited storage capacity compared to standard refrigerators.
Conclusion
Choosing the right size refrigerator is crucial to ensure that it fits your kitchen space and fulfills your storage needs. By accurately measuring the height, width, and depth of the available space, considering the door swing, and calculating the required storage capacity, you can make an informed decision. Additionally, exploring different types of refrigerators will help you find the one that suits your lifestyle and preferences. Remember to take your time, compare options, and seek professional advice if necessary. With the right size refrigerator, you can enjoy the convenience and freshness it brings to your daily life.