How to Choose the Right Fridge Size for Your Home
Choosing the right size fridge is one of the most important decisions when buying a new refrigerator in Australia. Buy too small and you'll struggle with space; buy too large and you'll waste energy and potentially not fit the fridge in your kitchen. This guide walks you through exactly how to choose the right fridge size for your household.
Step 1: Measure Your Space
Before looking at any fridge, measure the space where your fridge will go. You need three measurements:
- Width: The gap between your cabinets or walls. Leave at least 15–20mm clearance on each side.
- Height: From floor to the bottom of any overhead cabinet. Leave at least 50mm above the fridge for air circulation.
- Depth: From the wall to the front of the cavity. Most standard fridges are 650–720mm deep (not including handles). Check whether handles will protrude into a walkway.
Step 2: Choose Capacity Based on Household Size
| Household Size | Recommended Capacity | Best Fridge Type |
|---|---|---|
| 1 person / studio | 200–350L | Bar fridge or compact top mount |
| 2 people | 300–450L | Top mount or bottom mount |
| 3–4 people | 400–550L | Bottom mount or French door |
| 5–6 people | 500–650L | French door or side-by-side |
| Large family (6+) | 650L+ | Large French door or side-by-side |
Step 3: Choose the Right Style
Top Mount Fridge
Freezer on top, fridge below. Most affordable style. Very common in older Australian kitchens and rentals. Less ergonomic (you bend to access the fridge section). Capacities: typically 300–500L.
Bottom Mount Fridge
Fridge on top, freezer below. More ergonomic — the most-used fridge section is at eye level. Popular in modern Australian kitchens. Capacities: typically 400–600L.
French Door Fridge
Double doors for the fridge section, freezer drawer below. The premium standard for large Australian family homes. Excellent usable fridge space. Capacities: typically 500–750L+.
Side-by-Side Fridge
Fridge and freezer side by side, full height. Very wide and needs significant kitchen space (usually 90cm+). Good for kitchens where fridge depth is restricted. Capacities: typically 500–700L.
Step 4: Consider Energy Efficiency
Running cost matters. In Australia, every extra star on the energy rating label reduces electricity use by approximately 10%. For a fridge running 24/7 for 10+ years, the difference between a 2-star and a 4-star model can be hundreds of dollars in running costs over the appliance's lifetime.
Aim for at least 3.5 stars for a modern fridge. Some Fisher & Paykel and LG models achieve 4.5–5 stars.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Buying too small: A fridge that's too small means frequent shopping trips, food spoilage and overcrowding that reduces efficiency
- Forgetting the depth: Many buyers forget to check fridge depth vs kitchen depth, especially in apartments
- Ignoring energy ratings: A cheap fridge with a poor energy rating can cost more over its lifetime than a more expensive efficient model
- Not checking door swing: On standard fridges, check which way the door opens; some fridges allow left or right hinge reversal
Shop Fridges at Oceania Appliances
We carry a full range of fridges from 200L bar fridges to 750L+ French door models from Samsung, LG, Hisense, Westinghouse, Fisher & Paykel and Electrolux at our Wetherill Park showroom.
- Showroom: 2/14 Centre Place, Wetherill Park NSW 2164
- Phone / WhatsApp: 0422 489 492
- Email: support@oceaniaappliances.com.au