What Is a Bottom Mount Freezer and Why Are Australians Switching to Them?
The bottom mount fridge — where the fridge section is on top and the freezer is a drawer at the bottom — has been growing in popularity across Australia. If you've been considering one, here's what you need to know about how they work, why people love them and whether one is right for you.
What Is a Bottom Mount Fridge?
A bottom mount fridge (also called a bottom freezer fridge) has the refrigerator compartment on the upper portion (at eye level) and the freezer in a pull-out drawer at the base. This is the opposite of the traditional top mount layout where the freezer is at the top.
Why More Australians Are Choosing Bottom Mount
Your Most-Used Section Is at Eye Level
Most people use the fridge section many times a day and the freezer much less frequently. With a bottom mount fridge, everything in the fridge — leftovers, drinks, fresh produce — is visible and accessible without bending. The freezer, accessed less often, is at the bottom where bending is a minor inconvenience.
Better Food Visibility
Because the fridge is at chest to eye height, you can see everything at a glance. Shelves are at a natural height for viewing and reaching. This reduces the chance of food being "lost" at the back of a low shelf.
Energy Efficiency
Cold air naturally sinks. Having the freezer at the bottom means less cold air escapes when you open the fridge door (since the coldest section is already at the bottom). Many bottom mount models achieve excellent energy star ratings.
Modern Aesthetic
Bottom mount fridges have a clean, contemporary look that complements modern kitchens. They're particularly popular in kitchen renovations where fridge aesthetics matter.
Considerations Before Buying
The main trade-off is freezer access — you do need to bend down to access the freezer drawer. For people with mobility limitations or back issues, a top mount may be more practical. The drawer format also means frozen items can be harder to organise than in a traditional shelf-based freezer.
Sizing
Bottom mount fridges typically range from 350L to 650L+. They're available in standard 60cm widths up to 90cm for larger models.
Top Brands
Fisher & Paykel offers some of the best bottom mount models in Australia, particularly in the mid-to-large capacity range. Samsung, LG, Westinghouse and Hisense all produce well-regarded options across different price points.
Oceania Appliances stocks bottom mount fridges in all sizes from top brands. Free delivery across Sydney. Shop online or visit our Wetherill Park showroom.