The answer is: any refrigerator that is 36 inches wide or less can fit in a 36 inch opening. However, there are other factors to consider when choosing a refrigerator for your kitchen, such as the depth, height, capacity, style, features, and energy efficiency. In this article, we will guide you through the process of finding the best refrigerator for your space and budget.
Before you start shopping for a refrigerator, you need to measure the space where you plan to install it. You will need a measuring tape, a pencil, and a paper to record the dimensions. Here are the steps to follow:
Measure the width of the opening from wall to wall, or from cabinet to cabinet if there are any on either side of the refrigerator space. This is the maximum width of the refrigerator that can fit in the opening.
Measure the depth of the opening from the wall to the edge of the counter, or to the front of the cabinets if there are any behind the refrigerator space. This is the maximum depth of the refrigerator that can fit in the opening. You may also want to measure the depth with the doors open to make sure they have enough clearance to swing without hitting anything.
Measure the height of the opening from the floor to the bottom of the cabinets above the refrigerator space, or to the ceiling if there are no cabinets. This is the maximum height of the refrigerator that can fit in the opening. You may also want to measure the height with the door hinges at the top of the refrigerator to ensure a good fit beneath overhead cabinets.
Write down the measurements and take them with you when you go shopping for a refrigerator. You may also want to measure the width and height of your front door and any other doors or hallways that the refrigerator will have to pass through to reach its final destination. This will help you avoid any unpleasant surprises during delivery and installation.
How to Choose a Refrigerator Style
Refrigerators come in different styles, which are available in a range of sizes. The most common styles are:
French door: This style has two doors that open outward to reveal the fresh food compartment, and a bottom freezer drawer. It is popular because of its high-end aesthetic, easy access to frequently used items, and large capacity. However, it may also be more expensive, less energy-efficient, and have less actual storage space than claimed.
Side-by-side: This style has two doors that open from the center to reveal the fresh food compartment on one side and the freezer on the other. It is ideal for narrow kitchens because of its slim doors, and it may also offer more features such as ice makers and water dispensers. However, it may also be less spacious, especially for wide items like pizza boxes, and less energy- and space-efficient than other styles.
Bottom-freezer: This style has one door that opens to reveal the fresh food compartment, and a bottom freezer drawer. It is convenient because it puts the most used items at eye level, and it may also be less expensive and more reliable than other styles. However, it may also require bending to access the freezer, and lack features such as water dispensers.
Top-freezer: This style has one door that opens to reveal the fresh food compartment, and a top freezer compartment. It is the most traditional and affordable style, and it may also offer the most space for its size. However, it may also require reaching up to access the freezer, and lack features such as ice makers and water dispensers.
The best style for you depends on your personal preference, budget, and space. You may also want to consider the configuration of the shelves, drawers, and bins inside the refrigerator, and how they suit your storage needs.
How to Choose a Refrigerator Size
The size of the refrigerator is determined by its width, depth, and height, as well as its capacity. The capacity is measured in cubic feet, and it indicates how much food the refrigerator can hold. However, the capacity may not reflect the actual usable space inside the refrigerator, as some models may have thicker walls, larger compressors, or more features that take up space. Therefore, it is important to look at the interior dimensions and layout of the refrigerator, and not just the capacity.
The best size for you depends on your space, budget, and food habits. Generally, you want a refrigerator that can fit in your opening, leave some room for ventilation, and have enough space to store your food without wasting energy. According to the Energy Star program, the optimal capacity for a refrigerator is between 4 and 6 cubic feet per adult in the household. For example, a family of four may need a refrigerator with a capacity of 16 to 24 cubic feet.
How to Choose a Refrigerator Features
Refrigerators come with a variety of features that can enhance their performance, convenience, and appearance. Some of the most common features are:
Ice maker: This feature produces ice cubes automatically and stores them in a bin or dispenser. It can be located in the freezer or the door of the refrigerator. It can save you the hassle of filling and emptying ice trays, but it may also take up space, increase energy consumption, and require a water line connection.
Water dispenser: This feature dispenses chilled water from the door of the refrigerator. It can be paired with a filter to remove impurities and improve the taste of the water. It can provide you with easy access to fresh water, but it may also take up space, increase energy consumption, and require a water line connection.
Smart technology: This feature connects the refrigerator to the internet and allows you to control it remotely, monitor its status, and access various apps and functions. For example, some smart refrigerators have touchscreens, cameras, voice assistants, and grocery lists. This feature can offer you more convenience, entertainment, and customization, but it may also be more expensive, complex, and prone to glitches.
The best features for you depend on your personal preference, budget, and needs. You may want to prioritize the features that you will use the most, and avoid the ones that you will not use or need.
How to Choose a Refrigerator Energy Efficiency
Refrigerators are one of the most energy-consuming appliances in the home, as they run continuously to keep your food fresh. Therefore, it is important to choose a refrigerator that is energy-efficient and can save you money on your electricity bills. The best way to compare the energy efficiency of different refrigerators is to look at their Energy Guide labels, which show their estimated annual energy consumption and cost. You may also want to look for the Energy Star logo, which indicates that the refrigerator meets the strict energy efficiency standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
The energy efficiency of a refrigerator depends on several factors, such as its size, style, features, and settings. Generally, smaller, simpler, and newer refrigerators are more energy-efficient than larger, fancier, and older ones. However, there may be exceptions, so it is always advisable to check the labels and compare the models. You can also improve the energy efficiency of your refrigerator by following some simple tips, such as:
Keep the refrigerator away from heat sources, such as ovens, dishwashers, or direct sunlight, to reduce its cooling load.
Leave some space around the refrigerator for proper air circulation and ventilation, and clean the coils regularly to remove dust and dirt.
Set the temperature of the refrigerator between 35°F and 38°F, and the freezer between 0°F and 5°F, to maintain optimal food safety and quality.
Avoid overfilling or underfilling the refrigerator, as both can affect its cooling efficiency and performance.
Minimize the frequency and duration of opening the doors, as this can let warm air in and cold air out, and make the refrigerator work harder to maintain the temperature.
Unplug the refrigerator when not in use for a long time, such as when you go on vacation, to save energy and prevent mold and odor.
Choosing a refrigerator can be a daunting task, as there are many options and factors to consider. However, by following this guide, you can narrow down your choices and find the best refrigerator for your space and budget. Remember to measure your opening, choose a style, size, features, and energy efficiency that suit your needs, and compare different models and prices. A good refrigerator can last for many years, so it is worth investing some time and money to find the one that will keep your food fresh and your kitchen happy.
