American-style fridge freezers have become increasingly popular among homeowners looking for a convenient and spacious option for storing their food. These appliances can significantly enhance your kitchen's functionality; however, their larger size also means that you need to carefully consider the dimensions and available space in your kitchen to ensure a seamless fit.
In this American Fridge Freezer Size Guide, Hoover experts provide you with all the information you need to know about American fridge freezers, including the benefits of choosing one, the dimensions and sizes, and how to measure for one in your home.
What is an American-style fridge freezer?
An American-style fridge freezer, sometimes referred to as a side-by-side fridge freezer, is a large kitchen appliance that combines both a refrigerator and a freezer in one unit. The fridge and freezer compartments are typically located side-by-side, with the fridge being on the right side and the freezer on the left.
American fridge freezers are known for their generous storage capacity, modern design, and various features such as water and ice dispensers, digital displays, and adjustable shelves.
Benefits of American fridge freezers
American-style fridge freezers have several attractive features and characteristics which have helped the appliance gain popularity in recent years. Below are some of the most talked about benefits of choosing an American fridge freezer:
- Storage capacity: It’s often easy to spot an American-style fridge freezer due to its massive size. These appliances offer a larger storage capacity compared to traditional fridge freezers, making them perfect for families and those who often entertain guests.
- Accessibility: The two-door design allows easy access to both the fridge and freezer compartments without needing to bend down or reach up. In addition, these fridge freezers are typically loaded with shelves and drawers for even easier access to what you need.
- Style: American fridge freezers often come in sleek, modern designs that can enhance the look of any kitchen. Newer, high-tech options even include smart features, such as digital screens and Wi-Fi connectivity.
- Features: Most American fridge freezers boast additional features like water and ice dispensers (crushed or cubed), temperature control, LED lights, frost-free systems and adjustable shelving.
American fridge freezer dimensions
American fridge freezer dimensions can vary depending on the model, but here are some general guidelines:
- Height: Most American fridge freezers are between 160 to 180 cm.
- Width: American fridge freezer widths can range from 70 to 100 cm.
- Depth: The typical depth of an American fridge freezer is between 60 to 80 cm.
American fridge freezer widths
While the height and depth of American fridge freezers typically sit within a standard range, there are three distinct types of American fridge freezer widths: slim, standard, and wide.
Slim American fridge freezer widths are 70 to 85 cm long. Standard American fridge freezer widths are 86 to 95 cm long. Wide American fridge freezer widths are 96+ cm long.
The width of American fridge freezers is also dependent on the door style. For example, American fridge freezer styles can come in side-by-side doors, French doors, and four doors.
How to measure for an American fridge freezer
Before purchasing an American fridge freezer, it is essential to measure your available space to ensure a proper fit. Here's how to measure for an American fridge freezer:
- Height: Measure from the floor to the lowest point of any overhead cabinets or ceiling height restrictions.
- Width: Measure the horizontal space where the fridge freezer will be placed, considering any nearby cabinets or walls.
- Depth: Measure the distance from the back wall to the front edge of any countertops or obstacles.
Remember to account for door clearance, ventilation space, and any additional space required for water and ice dispenser connections. We recommend saving about 2 cm on the sides of the space and 4 to 5 cm for ventilation space behind where the fridge will sit.
In addition, it’s essential to consider how your American-style fridge freezer doors will open, making sure that they will not be blocked in by any islands, cupboards, or other items in your kitchen layout. If you’re purchasing a model with door shelving and pull-out drawers, you will need to ensure your space can accommodate the doors and drawers to open fully.
Explore American-style fridge freezers
We understand that investing in an American fridge freezer is a significant decision, and we're here to help you make the best choice for your home. By considering the size of these appliances and how they will integrate into your kitchen, you can be confident in your purchase and enjoy the convenience and functionality that an American fridge freezer has to offer.
Looking for more information on how to optimise the functionality of your American-style fridge freezer? Check out Hoover’s other blog posts on fridge freezers, including how to organise your fridge.
Ready to take your kitchen to the next level? Shop fridges and freezers with Hoover today!