How to Choose the Right Size Fridge
Buying a fridge that’s too small is frustrating. Buying one that’s too large wastes energy and money. Here’s a practical guide to working out the right capacity for your household.
The Standard Rule of Thumb
The most commonly cited guide for Australian households: 100 litres of fridge/freezer capacity per person in the household, plus 50–100 litres of buffer for shopping style and entertainment habits.
| Household Size | Recommended Fridge Capacity |
|---|---|
| 1 person | 150–200L |
| 2 people (couple) | 250–350L |
| Family of 3–4 | 380–500L |
| Family of 5–6 | 500–600L |
| Large family (7+) | 600L+ or multiple fridges |
Factors That Adjust the Estimate
How You Shop
Weekly bulk shoppers need more capacity than daily fresh-food shoppers. If you do one large Costco or Aldi shop per week, add 50–100L to the standard estimate.
Entertaining
If you regularly host dinners, parties or family gatherings, add 50–100L. Having guests frequently means needing extra drink, leftover and meal-prep space.
Freezer Needs
If you buy meat in bulk, meal prep in advance, or freeze a lot of leftovers, consider a French door fridge with a full-width freezer drawer, or a chest freezer as a supplement.
Cultural Background and Cooking Style
Households with Chinese, Korean, South Asian, Middle Eastern or Pacific Islander cooking traditions typically use significantly more fridge and freezer space than the standard estimate. High-volume cooking, marinating, fermenting and bulk provisioning are common practices. Add 100–150L to standard estimates for these households.
Fridge Types by Size
Top-Mount (200–450L)
Fridge on the bottom, freezer on top. Most affordable. Good for smaller households. Less convenient for the fridge section (you stoop to access it).
Bottom-Mount (350–500L)
Fridge on top, freezer drawer at the bottom. More ergonomic for the fridge section. Popular mid-size option.
French Door (450–700L)
Two fridge doors on top, freezer drawer(s) below. Excellent capacity, wide shelves for large items, premium look. The most popular large-fridge category in Australia.
Quad Door (550–750L)
Four doors — two fridge, two freezer. Maximum capacity and flexibility. Suits very large families or households with high freezer needs.
Measuring for Fit
Always measure your space carefully before buying:
- Width: measure the opening at its narrowest point, then subtract 5cm for clearance
- Height: measure from floor to the bottom of overhead cabinets or ceiling, then subtract 5cm
- Depth: measure from the wall to the front of your benchtop, noting that the fridge will often protrude 5–10cm beyond the bench
- Door clearance: ensure the fridge door can open fully, and that it won’t hit an adjacent wall or cabinet when open
Shop Fridges at Oceania Appliances
We carry fridges from 150L to 750L+ across all styles, from Westinghouse, LG, Samsung, Hisense, Fisher & Paykel and Miele. Free delivery across Sydney. Visit 2/14 Centre Place, Wetherill Park, call or WhatsApp 0422 489 492, or email support@oceaniaappliances.com.au. Open 7 days, 10am–8pm.