When it comes to purchasing a new refrigerator, one of the most common concerns that homeowners face is whether or not it will fit through their door. It can be quite a frustrating experience to have a brand new appliance delivered, only to find out that it won’t make it through the entrance. To avoid this disappointment and potential inconvenience, it is essential to measure your door and the refrigerator accurately before making a purchase. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of measuring your door and ensuring a perfect fit for your new refrigerator.
Measuring Your Door
Step 1: Gather the necessary tools
Before you begin measuring, make sure to have a tape measure, pencil, and paper handy. These tools will help you accurately record the dimensions and make the necessary calculations.
Step 2: Measure the door frame width
Start by measuring the width of your door frame. Use the tape measure to find the distance between the edges of the frame. Be sure to measure the narrowest part of the frame, as this will be the most critical measurement for determining whether your refrigerator will fit through.
Step 3: Measure the door frame height
Next, measure the height of your door frame. Place the tape measure at the top of the frame and extend it down to the bottom, recording the measurement as you go. This measurement will determine the maximum height your refrigerator can be to fit through the door.
Measuring Your Refrigerator
Step 1: Measure the width
Using the tape measure, measure the width of your refrigerator from one side to the other. Note down this measurement, as it will help determine whether the fridge will fit through your door.
Step 2: Measure the height
Measure the height of your refrigerator from the bottom to the top. This measurement is crucial in ensuring that the appliance can pass through your entrance.
Step 3: Measure the depth
Lastly, measure the depth of your refrigerator. This dimension is often overlooked, but it is crucial to account for any additional clearance needed to navigate tight corners or hallway turns.
Calculating Clearance
Once you have measured both your door and refrigerator, it’s time to calculate the clearance you would have when attempting to bring in your new appliance. To do this, subtract the width of your refrigerator from the width of your door frame. This will give you the difference or the amount of clearance you have available on either side of the fridge when maneuvering it through the doorway.
Alternative Solutions
In some instances, you may find that your refrigerator is a few inches too wide or tall to fit through your door, causing unnecessary stress. However, there are alternative solutions available to make it work.
Removing the Doors
In some cases, removing the doors of your refrigerator can provide the extra few inches needed to fit it through the doorway. Most refrigerator doors can be easily removed by unscrewing a few bolts or screws. Keep in mind that this process may require some assistance, and you should consult your refrigerator’s user manual for specific instructions.
Professional Delivery Service
If you are unsure of the measurements or concerned about maneuvering your fridge by yourself, consider hiring a professional delivery service. These experts are experienced in moving large appliances and can ensure a hassle-free delivery.
Consider Buying a Counter Depth Refrigerator
A counter depth refrigerator is specifically designed to align with your kitchen countertops, offering a sleek and integrated look. These appliances are typically shallower than standard refrigerators, making them an excellent option for narrow doorways.
Summary
Before purchasing a refrigerator, it is crucial to measure both your door and the appliance accurately. By knowing the dimensions of both, you can calculate the clearance and determine whether it will fit through your entrance. Should you find that your refrigerator is too wide or tall for your door, consider alternative solutions such as removing the doors or hiring a professional delivery service. With proper measurements and careful planning, you can ensure a perfect fit for your new refrigerator and avoid any unnecessary frustrations in the process.