Best Fridges for Renters: What to Look For and Top Picks
Choosing a fridge as a renter is different from buying for a family home. You need something that fits in a range of kitchens, is easy to move, holds its value, and suits a budget that may need to stretch to cover other rental costs. This guide walks through what renters should look for and recommends the best options available in Australia.
Key Considerations for Renters
1. Size and Fit
Rental properties have fixed kitchen cavities, and they vary. Measure your cavity before buying. Standard Australian fridge cavities are 60–90cm wide. The most versatile renter fridges are in the 60–80cm width range, which fits most rental kitchens. Confirm height clearance too — some apartments have overhead cabinetry above the fridge recess.
2. Capacity
For a single person or couple: 220–350L is usually enough. For a small family of 3–4: 350–500L is comfortable. Avoid buying much larger than you need — bigger fridges use more electricity and are harder to move.
3. Portability
Renters move more frequently than homeowners. Consider: Does the fridge have robust rear wheels for moving? Is the weight manageable for professional movers? Top-mount fridges are generally lighter and easier to move than French door models. Bottom-mount fridges are a good balance of usability and portability.
4. Energy Efficiency
Renters pay electricity bills. A fridge with a 4–5 star energy rating can save $80–$150 per year compared to an older or less efficient model. This pays off even if you only own the fridge for 2–3 years.
5. Budget
Renter budgets vary, but most are looking in the $600–$1,500 range. Ex-display models from quality brands are an excellent option — Oceania Appliances regularly has ex-display Samsung, LG, Westinghouse and Hisense models at significant savings.
Best Fridge Types for Renters
Top-Mount Fridge
The most practical choice for renters. Fits in virtually any kitchen, good capacity-to-footprint ratio, easy to move, and available from $600 upward. Top picks: Westinghouse WTB4600WC (460L), LG GN-H702HQHM (700L for larger rentals), Samsung RT42CG6421B1 (424L).
Bottom-Mount Fridge
Ergonomically better (most-used fridge section at eye level), slightly more expensive but widely available. Good choice for renters who plan to stay in a property for 2+ years. Top picks: Samsung SRL452MB (452L), Fisher & Paykel E441BRXFD4 (442L), Westinghouse WBE4504SB (450L).
Bar Fridge
Ideal for studio apartments, granny flats or as a second fridge. 100–180L capacity. Top picks: Hisense RR220D4ABE (220L), Westinghouse WRM4000WF (400L small).
What to Avoid
- Very large French door models — hard to move, may not fit rental kitchen cavities, often more than a renter needs
- No-brand budget fridges — poor energy efficiency, unreliable, hard to get repaired
- Water dispenser models — require plumbing connection you may not have in a rental
Ex-Display Fridges: The Smart Renter Choice
Oceania Appliances regularly has ex-display fridges at 20–40% off RRP. These are top-brand models (Samsung, LG, Fisher & Paykel, Westinghouse) that have been used as showroom displays. They're in excellent condition with full manufacturer warranties. This is an excellent way to get a quality fridge on a renter's budget.
Visit our Wetherill Park showroom or contact us at support@oceaniaappliances.com.au to ask about current ex-display stock.