Fridge sizing variations: how to know what type of fridge will work best in your household

What is the standard fridge size in Australia?

Most Australian houses will have a cavity space in the kitchen that measures at around 90cmW x 180cm H x 60cm D. This means that the majority of Australian fridges will be sized slightly below these dimensions to ensure that the fridge fits comfortably within its nook and can still be opened. Standard Australian fridges will have dimensions in the following ranges: 170cm-190cm (Height), 470cm-90cm (Width), and 49.2cm-90cm (Depth).

Different types of fridges will have specific standard dimensions. The way to determine a fridge’s type is to look at its composition and door style. French door fridges are a very common style where the top half (or ¾ ) of the fridge opens outwards on either size, with a freezer taking up the second half (or ¼). These fridges tend to be slightly taller than other sizes, with an average height of 173cm.

By contrast, side by side fridges have the same style of door (split in half and opening outwards) but instead of the separate freezer, side by side fridges are all one long door. They are slightly shorter than typical French door fridges but usually have a larger width to compensate. Top mount fridges are fridges with the freezer space on the top ¼, usually with a smaller height and width than French door or side-by-side styles. Bottom mount is the same, but with the freezer compartment situated on the bottom half.

Australian fridge sizes are in line with the standard fridge sizes around the world. However, European fridges are known for being very small and a European fridge will usually be much smaller than its Australian counterpart. This is because European dwellings on average are far smaller than Australian houses, meaning that kitchen size is limited and fridge space is often shaved down to compensate.

Fridges can be quite expensive. The average price of a fridge between $1,000-$2,000, though it is not uncommon to find a lower-capacity model for around $500. However, this does not incorporate the running costs of a fridge; more expensive models are much more efficient with their energy consumption and can save hundreds of dollars a year. Bear in mind that larger fridges are always more expensive to run, with the average cost of running a 600L fridge hitting $166 per year against the 350L’s $124.

Standard fridge size Australia by type: Fridge sizes guide to standard fridge dimensions

What size fridge to I need?

Fridge “sizes” can also mean the capacity of the fridge, which is measured in liters. A small fridge that will suit a household of 1-2 people is around 100-150L. Medium fridges can support approximately 3-4 people and will hold 150-200L. A large fridge is considered to be 250L or more and will easily store food and beverages for a household of 5+.

The liter capacity of a fridge is a good way to judge what size of fridge you will need for your household, but try to compare it with the expected food intake. For example, if you live in a house where everyone eats large portions frequently, a big fridge might be a more comfortable fit. Similarly, if you eat out often or have small meal portions / snack throughout the day, you might get away with a smaller fridge to save money.

The style of fridge that will work best for your home will depend on the amount of space in kitchen, how much space around fridge you want, your apartment size, and the capacity of your household. Larger fridges like the French door or double door styles are better for big families or share-houses, whereas a single door fridge with a shallow depth is a better design for those living alone or as a couple.

French Door

French door refrigerators are one of the most popular styles of fridge currently in use. This is because they provide a range of practical features as well as the aesthetic appeal of French doors. French doors are also more practical as it allows you to see the majority of your food without having to take things out or make space as you search. Shelves are wider and there is more space, plus the style of the doors makes it easy to open and close without risk of bumping into other cabinets or blocking off walkways.

Double Door

The main draw of a double door refrigerator is that they are usually frost free, using an automatic fan to prevent ice forming where it shouldn’t. The freezer compartment is much larger than with other fridges, giving the opportunity to freeze more food for longer. However, be aware that this setup does detract somewhat from the available fridge space, and that the freezer/fridge divide is 50/50 whereas in most fridges freezer space takes up about ¼ of the overall capacity.

Single Door fridges (top and bottom mount)

Single door fridges are a great way to save money. They cost less both the buy and run, so the potential savings in the long term are quite lucrative. Single door fridges also occupy less space in the room, keeping your kitchen feeling bright and open.

Small fridges also tend to be more environmentally friendly, because they are easily made efficient. However, having a small fridge will come with challenges if you are not used to storing food in limited space. This fridge is best suited to apartments with one or two occupants.