What Is a Bottom Mount Fridge?
A bottom mount fridge (also called a bottom freezer fridge or bottom mount refrigerator) is a fridge where the freezer compartment is located at the bottom and the refrigerator section is at the top. This is the reverse of the classic top mount design where the freezer sits above the fridge.
How Is It Different from a Top Mount Fridge?
In a top mount fridge, the freezer is at eye level when you open the door. This design has been standard for decades. In a bottom mount fridge, the refrigerator section is at eye level and the freezer is a drawer at the bottom. Bottom mount fridges are growing in popularity across Australia because of this ergonomic advantage.
Key Advantages of a Bottom Mount Fridge
1. Fridge Section at Eye Level
Since most people access the fridge much more often than the freezer, having the fridge compartment at eye and hand level is more convenient. You can see everything in your fridge without bending down. No more crouching to find the butter or leftovers.
2. Wider Fridge Compartment
Bottom mount fridges often have wider, unobstructed shelving in the fridge section. Some designs include full-width shelves without the central support that top mount models require.
3. Modern Aesthetic
Bottom mount fridges have a clean, contemporary look that suits modern kitchens. Many models are available in stainless steel finishes that complement stone benchtops and handleless cabinetry.
4. Freezer Access Is Easy
The freezer drawer at the bottom pulls out like a drawer, giving you good visibility and access to frozen food. No more digging through a deep top freezer compartment.
Disadvantages of a Bottom Mount Fridge
1. Bending for Freezer Access
You will need to bend down or crouch to access the freezer. For people with back problems or reduced mobility, this can be less comfortable than a top-mount design.
2. Generally More Expensive
Bottom mount fridges typically cost more than equivalent top mount models. However, prices have come down significantly and there are now many affordable bottom mount options.
3. Freezer Drawer Can Be Awkward
Freezer drawers can be harder to organise than a shelf-based top-mount freezer. Loose items can fall to the bottom and be forgotten.
Who Is a Bottom Mount Fridge Best For?
- Families who use the fridge constantly and want easy access to fresh food
- People who want a modern aesthetic in their kitchen
- Households that use frozen food less frequently than fresh food
- Anyone who wants a large, wide fridge compartment
Popular Brands
Fisher & Paykel, Westinghouse, Samsung, LG and Hisense all make excellent bottom mount fridges. Capacities range from around 300L to 500L+ to suit households of all sizes.
See Bottom Mount Fridges at Oceania Appliances
We stock a wide range of bottom mount fridges from all major brands. Visit our showroom at 2/14 Centre Place, Wetherill Park โ open 7 days, 10am to 8pm. Free delivery across Sydney.