STANDARD-DEPTH REFRIGERATOR BUYING GUIDE
A refrigerator can help make, or break, your kitchen’s flow. Use this guide to discover what makes a standard-depth refrigerator unique, learn key features to consider, compare these models with counter-depth and built-in refrigerators, and think through the pros and cons of adding a standard-depth model to your kitchen.
WHAT IS A STANDARD-DEPTH REFRIGERATOR?
Standard-depth refrigerators—or “full-depth” refrigerators—help maximize storage by extending several inches beyond the countertop, sometimes protruding out half a foot or more when installed in a standard cutout. With depths ranging from about 31 to 36 inches, they can offer ample storage space.
6 FEATURES TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A STANDARD-DEPTH REFRIGERATOR
From layout and capacity to features, energy efficiency and finish, paying attention to the right factors can help you find a standard-depth refrigerator that empowers the way you create and suits your space. Key features to consider include:
1. CONFIGURATION
Choosing a standard-depth refrigerator gives you a lot of options. You can find them in styles ranging from top- and bottom-mount to side-by-side, French door and multi-door designs. For example, this standard-depth KitchenAid® multi-door refrigerator—as well as this KitchenAid® French door model—sit roughly 36 inches deep compared with the 24 to 30 inches of most counter-depth refrigerators, offering generous space for both fresh and frozen favorites.
2. SIZE AND CAPACITY
The size and capacity of a standard-depth refrigerator can vary by configuration, but you can generally expect standard-depth refrigerator dimensions to fall within the following ranges, although there are always exceptions:
Width: 28¾ to 39¾ inches
Depth: 31 to 36 inches
Height: 61¾ to 71¼ inches
Capacity: 20 to 25 cubic feet
3. COLOR AND FINISH
Standard-depth refrigerators offer plenty of style flexibility, with a range of colors, textures and finishes to suit your kitchen. You can opt for a timeless aesthetic with stainless steel, go bold with black stainless steel, or keep it classic with white or black.
You can also explore distinctive finishes that pair beauty with practicality. For example, this KitchenAid® standard-depth side-by-side refrigerator features the specialized PrintShield® Finish for stainless steel that’s easy to clean with just water and a soft cloth, so you can spend more time cooking and less time cleaning up.
4. FEATURES
You can typically find similar features on both standard- and counter-depth refrigerators, but they’ll vary from model to model. These features can include everything from uniquely designed cooling systems that optimize freshness to external or internal water and ice dispensers, flexible drawers and shelving, and convenient lighting and features meant to accommodate unique cookware or prep techniques.
Some KitchenAid® refrigerators, for example, feature the Preserva® Food Care System, which uses two independent cooling systems with a dedicated refrigeration unit to help keep food fresh longer, and a separate system for frozen food. Or—on standard-depth KitchenAid® refrigerators like this one—you’ll find handy features like LED Lighting, SatinGlide® Crispers, the In-Door-Ice® System, the 3-Tier Freezer Drawer with a Storage Divider and more.
5. ORGANIZATION
The layout and storage options in standard-depth refrigerators can vary greatly, often depending on the style (whether side-by-side, French door, multi-door, or top- and bottom-mount). For example, standard-depth French door models generally open with two upper doors to reveal a full-width refrigerator and generous in-door storage with a pull-out freezer below. Side-by-side models, on the other hand, divide the space vertically, with the freezer on one side and the refrigerator on the other.
You may find that standard-depth French door and multi-door models come equipped with more high-end organizational features than other types of refrigerator configurations. For instance, KitchenAid® standard-depth multi-door refrigerators, like this model, feature 2 Soft-Close Drawers that offer optimized storage and are a first for freestanding refrigeration. The left drawer features five preset temperatures: meat/fish, drinks, greens/herbs, deli/cheese and thaw/marinate. The right drawer includes a Produce Preserver and is ideal for produce.
6. ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Standard-depth refrigerators may be considered energy efficient if they meet certain criteria for energy use. Some KitchenAid® standard-depth refrigerators, for instance, are Energy Star® Certified to exceed government standards for energy efficiency, supporting sustainability and helping to save money on utility bills.
SHOP STANDARD-DEPTH FRENCH DOOR REFRIGERATORS FROM KITCHENAID BRAND
KitchenAid® standard-depth French door refrigerators, like this KitchenAid® refrigerator, offer the flexible spaces and adaptable cooling you need for complete culinary freedom. The FreshChill™ Temperature-Controlled Full-Width Pantry on select models lets you choose the optimal temperature for what you’re storing with custom settings for fish and meat, deli and cheese, and wine, while Max Cool on some refrigerators helps quickly chill recently loaded groceries by setting the refrigerator compartment to the lowest temperature levels and maintaining them there for up to 24 hours. You can also keep your refrigerator’s sleek aesthetic intact when you opt for a select KitchenAid® refrigerator with the Interior Water Dispenser that provides easy access to filtered water inside the refrigerator.
STANDARD-DEPTH VS. COUNTER-DEPTH VS. BUILT-IN REFRIGERATORS
Unlike standard-depth refrigerators, which extend beyond the countertop, counter-depth and built-in models sit flush with your cabinets for a streamlined look. Both counter-depth and standard-depth options can be freestanding, while built-ins are secured within cabinetry for a permanent, custom fit.
No matter the style—standard-depth, counter-depth or built-in—you can find a wide range of configurations to suit your kitchen’s needs.
STANDARD-DEPTH REFRIGERATOR PROS AND CONS
Standard-depth refrigerators provide ample space, deeper storage and a traditional, timeless style, but in some kitchens, they may also disrupt kitchen flow, require more door clearance and interrupt a sleek, seamless aesthetic. Learn more about standard-depth refrigerator pros and cons below.
PROS
Larger capacity options: Standard-depth refrigerators often offer larger capacities than counter-depth models, making them ideal for big households or kitchens where cooking is a daily passion. With generous space in both the refrigerator and freezer compartments, you can often store more ingredients, leftovers and your latest creations with ease.
Greater depth: At around 6-12 inches inches deeper than counter-depth models, standard-depth refrigerators tend to offer more room, giving you flexibility in what you put where, and making it easy to organize your favorite ingredients.
Traditional aesthetic: In kitchens where a traditional and timeless aesthetic takes center stage, standard-depth refrigerators can fit right in.
- Less costly: Standard-depth refrigerators often come at a lower price point than comparable counter-depth models.
CONS
Disrupted kitchen workflow: Extending several inches beyond the countertop, standard-depth refrigerators can jut out into your work space and require you to watch your step as you create, especially in tighter kitchens.
Requires more clearance for the door: Some standard-depth refrigerator doors can extend up to 45 inches when they are fully open, which might be tricky in kitchens with an island or other fixtures nearby. In tighter spaces, this can make it harder to step back as you browse, access items or open the doors all the way.
- No “Flush” Feel: Because they don’t sit flush with countertops or cabinetry, standard-depth refrigerators might break up an otherwise seamless kitchen design, drawing the eye to the appliance and away from the open, streamlined flow of the space.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST STANDARD-DEPTH REFRIGERATOR FOR YOU
When choosing a standard-depth refrigerator, make sure it fits your kitchen’s space, family’s lifestyle and daily routines. Consider space, style, capacity and must-have features so your refrigerator becomes the ultimate kitchen companion.
Consider capacity: Although standard-depth refrigerators are generally deeper than counter-depth models, they still come in a wide range of capacities. Think about how much space you truly need for your cooking and storage habits to choose a model that fits your kitchen.
Measure your space: Bringing home a refrigerator that doesn’t fit your current cutout can be frustrating. Before you start shopping, measure the width, depth and height of your cutout so you can find a model that fits seamlessly.
Find features that fit: Whether you prefer stocking up at the farmer’s market, frequently entertain large crowds or need uniquely customizable storage, think about which refrigerator features and configuration are best suited to your family’s daily cooking routines and grocery habits.
- Find the right color and finish: Your kitchen’s aesthetic can both comfort and inspire as you explore new techniques or whip up classic favorites. Choose a refrigerator in a color and finish that complements your space to keep the look cohesive and inviting.
