Is Your Refrigerator Too Tall For The Cabinet? (Fix It Now!)

When you purchase a new refrigerator, you probably assume it will be a perfect fit. However, you may find out later that the refrigerator is too large for the space. If your refrigerator is too tall, use this as a guide to figure out your next steps.

If your refrigerator is too tall for the space, you should remove the cabinet above the refrigerator. This will give you 6 to 12 inches of additional space, typically enough clearance for the refrigerator to fit comfortably. If you can’t remove cabinets, you will have to relocate your refrigerator to another location in the kitchen.

The second option you have is to relocate the refrigerator to a different part of the kitchen. Keep in mind that this depends solely on the layout of your kitchen. Sometimes kitchens have additional spots where you can insert the refrigerator, but other times this isn’t an option.

Of course, you will want to make sure that the refrigerator isn’t too tall for the new space. This is important as you may have to redirect electrical and water lines or make adjustments to other parts of the kitchen.

French door refrigerators feature a pantry-style layout where two doors open up top to reveal the refrigerator. The freezer component slides out from below. These refrigerators often offer the most capacity and features compared to other refrigerators.

If you have a larger family looking for a high-end option, a french door refrigerator is for you. This style of refrigerator has wide refrigerator and freezer compartments for storing bigger items as well as exterior water and ice dispensers. There’s also more refrigerator capacity than freezer capacity with adjustable shelves, compartments, and storage.

A side-by-side refrigerator features two doors that open from the center. The difference between this and a french door refrigerator is that one side is a refrigerator, and the other side is the freezer. This style of refrigerator does have more capacity compared to others.

There is slightly more freezer capacity in a side-by-side refrigerator versus a french door refrigerator. There’s vertical storage to keep fresh and frozen items on eye level, as well as adjustable shelves and door bins. These refrigerators feature exterior ice and water dispensers and reduce door swing clearance, which is excellent for more narrow spaces.

Top-freezer refrigerators, also known as top-mount refrigerators, are a classic style where the freezer is above the refrigerator compartment. This type of refrigerator is easy to store freezer items and provides wide in-door storage. These refrigerators are also a lower price point since features like ice and water dispensers are less common.

These refrigerators offer a more traditional setup and look. While there is more refrigerator space than freezer space, it provides easy access to frozen items. Keep in mind this refrigerator has a large door, so you’ll need a larger clearance space in front of the fridge.

When measuring for a refrigerator, you’ll want to decide the depth you prefer. Refrigerators are available in standard-depth and counter-depth.

The standard depth of a refrigerator is measured from the wall and extends past the cabinets. You measure counter depth from the wall to the edge of the counter.

You’ll also want to keep other depths in mind within your kitchen. If you have an island, measure the space in front of the refrigerator. You should be able to open your doors and drawers without making contact with anything else.

Measure the depth of the drawer when open and measure the depth of the doors when open. Also, take measurements with and without handles.

Related Questions

Can the height of the refrigerator be adjusted?

You can adjust the height of most refrigerators, but it varies by model. In most cases, refrigerators have leveling legs. These are adjustable-height legs that you can tweak using a screwdriver or even by simply rotating them. To find out what your refrigerator has, you’ll have to read through the manual to see if it’s possible.

What’s the average cost of a new refrigerator?

Installing a new refrigerator costs about $1,500 on average. This price includes the cost of the fridge and labor. Some homeowners can pay as little as $800, while others can spend upwards of $12,000 or more. However, most homeowners pay between $1,000 and $2,000. Your installation cost will depend on two factors: the type of refrigerator you’re installing and the type of installation necessary. The type of refrigerator is a factor as some models, like built-in refrigerators, are more expensive. If your installation requires putting in a new outlet or water line, expect to pay more, as well. 

How big of a refrigerator do I need?

As a rule of thumb, you usually need 4 to 6 cubic feet of storage per person in your household. Most refrigerators list their cubic foot capacity, but if not, you can determine it by the width, depth, and height. Most manufacturers recommend 19 to 22 cubic feet of capacity for a family for four. If you buy in bulk or make regular big shopping trips, you may need 30 to 33 cubic feet.