BUYING TIPS: MEASURING FOR A NEW REFRIGERATOR
- Refrigerator Buying Guide
- Measuring for a New Refrigerator
- Refrigerator Organization and Capacity
- Find the Perfect Fit
DETERMINE WHAT SIZE REFRIGERATOR YOU CAN FIT IN YOUR SPACE
You may have an idea of what type of refrigerator you want to buy, but there are essential steps to take before your final decision is made. A common misconception is that any refrigerator will fit the space you currently have, but measuring height, depth and width are just the beginning. You need to remember that there are different dimensions that need to be included when measuring, including door opening space, the hinge side door space, ventilation space, cleaning space and even getting the refrigerator in the house.
Measuring Refrigerator Depth, Width and Height
When you measure the space for a new refrigerator, make sure to take several measurements. From top to bottom, left to right, front to back, it's worth measuring a couple of times for accuracy. Remember that homes settle and what one measurement is doesn't necessarily mean that it will be the same measurement on the opposite side.
Refrigerator Door Measurement
When it comes to the door opening of a new refrigerator, you need to think about how far the door will open and fill the space of your kitchen. Many refrigerators need to be open to 90 degrees or more to allow full access to vegetable and door bins. If space is a concern, be sure to review the installation instructions and specification sheets prior to your purchase.
Will the door block a main walkway?
Then you'll probably need to look into French doors or side-by-side doors to save space.
When the door is open, is there enough space on the hinge side for the door to open without hitting your walls?
If there's not about 2-inches of space on the hinge side, then you'll have to keep in mind that the refrigerator will need to be pulled out about 2-inches to make up for this.
Plan Proper Ventilation
Refrigerators need to breathe. If they are entirely boxed in, then there's not much room for ventilation. When you measure the space for the refrigerator, and compare it to the size of the refrigerator, leave at least 1 inch of extra room for the back and the top of the refrigerator.
Proper Refrigerator Cleaning Guidelines
It's also beneficial to remember to leave space on all sides of the refrigerator so it easily slides in and out for easier cleaning. Dusts builds up fast, and to save the life on your refrigerator, make sure the area remains dust free.
Moving in a New Refrigerator
Finally, it's necessary to measure your doorways and entry ways. You already measured the space and made sure the refrigerator would fit, but will it fit through your front door, down the hall and around the corner to its final resting place? Nothing is worse than getting your new appliance home and it won't fit through the front door.