Refrigerator Buying Guide
The Different Types of Refrigerators: 3 Installation Options
- Built-in
- Free-standing
- Counter depth
Each model has its own advantages, depending on the space available in your kitchen. Which model is best suited to your kitchen configuration?
Find out by exploring the particularities of each type of installation to find the appliance that will fit perfectly into your space.
Built-In Refrigerators
Freestanding Refrigerators
Counter-Depth Refrigerators
Choosing the Right Configuration for Your Needs
Before thinking about style, consider how you use your refrigerator. Single-door, double-door, with or without a freezer—each configuration matches a different lifestyle. Explore the 6 main types and find the one that suits you best.
French-Door Refrigerators
- Featuring two side-by-side doors for the refrigerator and a bottom freezer, this configuration offers generous storage and a modern look.
- You can open just one fridge door at a time, minimizing cold air loss.
- Narrower doors require less clearance, giving you more freedom to move around your kitchen.
Top-Freezer Refrigerators
- Top-freezer models are great for maximizing fresh food storage.
- About one-third of the unit is dedicated to the freezer, leaving plenty of space for refrigeration.
- Classic and practical, some versions feature reversible doors for left- or right-hand opening.
Bottom-Freezer Refrigerators
- Ideal if you access fresh food more often than frozen items.
- With the freezer located at the bottom—often as a pull-out drawer—refrigerated items stay at eye level, reducing the need to bend down.
- This setup helps with organization, offering distinct zones for fruits, vegetables, ready-to-eat meals, or snacks.
Freezerless Refrigerators
- With no freezer section, these units maximize refrigeration capacity.
- Perfect for professional kitchens or households that already have a standalone freezer.
- Depending on the model, features may include temperature-controlled meat or fish drawers and humidity-regulated bins for produce.
Side-by-Side Refrigerators
- Vertically split, these models offer refrigeration on one side and freezing on the other.
- A good option if you need plenty of freezer space without adding a separate unit.
- Both compartments are easy to access and let you see everything at a glance.
Compact Refrigerators
- Designed for small spaces, compact models fit neatly under a counter or in a discreet corner.
- Great for storing drinks and everyday essentials in a finished basement, bar area, or as a secondary fridge.
- Some units even include a small freezer compartment at the top.
Measure Your Space and Plan for Clearance
Before shopping for a new refrigerator, make sure to carefully measure the space where your appliance will go:
- Account for width, height, and depth, leaving enough room for proper airflow—especially around the compressor—and to fully open the doors.
- Leave at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) of space on each side for easy installation.
- Watch the depth: if your refrigerator is deeper than your counters, it may stick out.
- Don’t forget to check the height, as some models can be up to 75 inches tall.
Taking precise measurements ahead of time will help you avoid surprises and ensure a perfect fit in your kitchen.
Size Guide: How to Choose the Right Dimensions for Your Refrigerator
Most refrigerators follow standard sizing, which makes your choice easier. Here are the most common dimensions you’ll find in appliance stores:
- Width: 24 to 36 inches (61 to 91 cm)
- Height: 60 to 72 inches (152 to 183 cm)
- Depth: 30 to 35 inches (76 to 89 cm)
If space is limited, our appliance specialists recommend choosing a model between 24 and 30 inches wide—ideal for cottages, compact kitchens, or condos. For larger or professional kitchens, oversized models over 40 inches wide are also available.
Features and Options to Consider
Choose the features and options that best fit your needs to make everyday life easier and more comfortable.
Built-In Water Dispenser: Ice and Water at Your Fingertips
An integrated water dispenser gives you easy access to fresh water—and ice, depending on the model. A perfect feature for families or weekend dinners with guests.
Humidity Control: Keep Produce Fresh Longer
Effective humidity control helps maintain freshness by limiting bacteria and odors. Crisper drawers with independent humidity settings are especially useful for extending the shelf life of fruits and vegetables.
Temperature-Controlled Zones: Tailored Preservation
Some refrigerator compartments can be set to specific temperatures, ideal for preserving different food types. This ensures longer-lasting freshness—whether for meat, dairy products, or other perishables.
Deli and Cheese Drawer: Ready for Entertaining
A dedicated deli and cheese drawer keeps these delicate items at just the right temperature, maintaining freshness and preventing odors from mixing. It's the perfect feature for weekend gatherings or holiday celebrations.
Adjustable-Temperature Cooling Drawer
This built-in drawer allows you to store wine bottles, soft drinks, or fresh produce at the ideal temperature. You can adjust the settings based on your needs—whether keeping vegetables crisp or drinks refreshingly cool.
Adjustable Shelves and Door Bins: Flexible Storage
Adjustable shelves and door bins offer maximum flexibility to help you organize and store your food. Some models let you customize the interior layout to fit tall pitchers or adjust shelf height to accommodate large platters.
Smart Refrigerator: Remote Access and Monitoring
A connected refrigerator can be controlled via a mobile app. Receive alerts for maintenance and temperature changes, and track your energy usage in real time.
Style and Design: From Retro Charm to Modern Aesthetics
Today’s refrigerators are more than just appliances—they’re part of your kitchen’s look. If you love a retro vibe, a vintage refrigerator with bold colors and rounded edges adds a nostalgic touch to your space.
Energy efficiency of refrigeration appliance
Plan Your Refrigerator Installation
Here are expert tips from JC Perreault to avoid common mistakes and enhance your daily comfort.
Choose the Right Door Swing
Before installation, check which way the refrigerator door opens. Select a direction that works with your kitchen layout and allows for easy access. Make sure the door can open wide enough to remove crisper drawers and other interior accessories without obstruction.
Leave Proper Clearance Around the Appliance
A successful installation starts with giving your refrigerator enough breathing room. Allow for 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm) of clearance around the sides and at least 2 inches (5 cm) at the back. These gaps ensure proper air circulation and help prevent overheating.
Let the Refrigerator Rest After Transport
After transportation, it’s essential to let your refrigerator sit before plugging it in. Wait 4 to 6 hours—or up to 24 hours if it was laid on its side during the move. This gives the compressor oil time to settle, protecting the motor when the appliance starts up again.
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