Counter-depth refrigerator dimensions & sizes

What is the typical size of a counter-depth refrigerator?

A typical counter-depth refrigerator generally ranges from about 24-30 inches in depth (not including handles) with widths around 36 inches and heights that sometimes run slightly taller than standard-depth models to offset the shallower depth without sacrificing capacity. Capacity runs anywhere between 15 and 25 cubic feet, with an average of about 22 cubic feet. Some models may vary.

When comparing against a standard refrigerator, counter-depth models are generally shallower—24-30 inches versus the 30-36 inches typical of standard-depth units—but can sometimes be wider or taller to compensate. Remember to factor in doors, handles and knobs when considering counter-depth refrigerator dimensions, as there can be significant variation in the general height, width and depth measurements.

Learn more about counter-depth vs. standard-depth refrigerators.

Shop shallow-depth refrigerators from Whirlpool brand

Whirlpool^® Counter-Depth Refrigerators sit virtually flush with your kitchen cabinets and come in a variety of styles. Select counter-depth refrigerators from Whirlpool brand feature In-Door-Ice^® Storage to give you an extra full shelf in the freezer with an ice bin that’s been moved to the door. Other models from Whirlpool brand offer EasyView^™ Drawers that help keep oversized produce visible.

Shop tall and wide Whirlpool^® Counter-Depth Refrigerators

Whirlpool^® Counter-Depth Refrigerators are designed to provide a streamlined look without sacrificing the features and storage options many households need. The largest counter-depth capacity refrigerators from Whirlpool brand measure up to 36 inches wide and over 70 inches high. Learn more about large capacity refrigerator options.

Select counter-depth refrigerators from Whirlpool brand feature The EasyReach Zone and adjustable divider, which provide countless ways to keep tall items organized. With more than a foot of space for tall items, you can store two 1-gallon milk jugs and two 2-liter soda bottles at the same time.

Shop small Whirlpool^® Counter-Depth Refrigerators

Small counter-depth refrigerators may be suitable for smaller kitchens. Select models that trend toward the smaller side from Whirlpool brand have a Flexible Ice Bin to help you make the most of your space. A divider in the flexible ice bin allows you to use the entire bin for ice, or save room in the bin for an ice scoop, ice packs or other items like popsicles.

How to measure for a counter-depth refrigerator

Getting the measurements right before you buy can save you from a costly mistake. Use the steps below to measure your space accurately, and determine where your refrigerator will be placed before you begin.

1. Determine refrigerator placement

If you’re designing a new kitchen or remodeling, pay close attention to the width and height of your cabinet cutout, not just the depth. Placing the refrigerator at the end of a cabinet run is also an option, which gives you a bit of flexibility.

If you’re replacing a standard-depth refrigerator with a counter-depth model, check that your existing cutout can accommodate the new measurements.

2. Measure refrigerator depth

To measure depth, start at the wall (not the backsplash) and measure to the edge of your countertop, then compare that measurement to the refrigerator’s product specifications. Counter-depth refrigerators can vary by model, so be sure to review the appliance dimensions, including depth with and without doors and handles, when determining fit.

Keep in mind that refrigerators need breathing room to run efficiently. Allow at least an inch between the back of the fridge and the wall for ventilation.

When shopping, you’ll likely encounter several depth measurements in product specs:

• Depth Including Doors

• Depth Excluding Doors

• Depth Closed Including Handles

• Depth Closed Excluding Handles

• Depth With Door Open 90 Degrees

• Depth With Drawers Open

Consider all of these when selecting your fridge. If you have a kitchen island, for example, make sure the doors and drawers will clear the island’s edge when open.

3. Measure refrigerator height

To measure height, start at the floor and measure to the bottom of any cabinets above, then subtract a half-inch for ventilation.

Keep your cutout dimensions handy when shopping, whether in store or online. A few minutes with a tape measure can save a lot of headaches later.

4. Measure refrigerator width

Counter-depth refrigerators are sometimes wider than traditional models to compensate for their shallower depth. When measuring your cabinet cutout, measure at the narrowest point and subtract one inch to allow for half-inch ventilation clearance on each side. If one side of the fridge will be against a wall, leave about four inches so the door can open to 90 degrees.

Tips for finding the right counter-depth fridge size

Finding the right counter-depth refrigerator starts with careful measuring. Keep these tips in mind before you buy:

• Pay close attention to both the depth and width of your planned cabinet cutout. Alternatively, you could place your refrigerator at the end of a row of cabinets, so if it’s a little wider it won’t cause fit issues. 

• Make sure your existing cabinet cutout can accommodate any extra width, especially if you’re replacing a standard-depth refrigerator with a counter-depth model.

• Always take note of the “door open” and “with handle” dimensions to ensure that the refrigerator is flush or nearly flush with your countertops.

• Remember to factor in breathing room on all sides of your refrigerator for proper ventilation—one inch of space between the wall and the back of the fridge and a half-inch on the top and both sides.

• Check that your floor is level before installation. If there are any irregularities, adjust the refrigerator’s leveling legs as needed to ensure the unit sits evenly.

Shop all styles of Whirlpool^® Counter-Depth Refrigerators

With counter-depth refrigerators available in French door, side-by-side, top-freezer and bottom-freezer configurations, you’ll be able to find the right style and size to match your preferences and kitchen layout.