Side-by-side fridges are one of the classic large fridge formats. Here's the complete guide to what they are, their pros and cons, and who they suit best in an Australian context.
What Is a Side-by-Side Fridge?
A side-by-side fridge has two full-height doors — the fridge section on one side and the freezer section on the other. Both sections span the full height of the appliance, with the two doors opening from the centre.
Typical Dimensions
Side-by-side fridges in Australia are typically:
- Width: 795mm to 915mm (most common: 905mm)
- Height: 1700–1790mm
- Depth: 680–750mm
- Capacity: 500–750L total
The equal-width doors (each approximately 400–450mm wide) are narrower than a French door or bottom-mount single door, which matters for kitchen access.
Advantages of Side-by-Side
Eye-level access to both fridge and freezer: You never have to bend down for the freezer. Good for households that access the freezer multiple times per day (batch cookers, households with frozen food as a staple).
Water and ice dispenser in the door: The most common placement for water/ice dispensers is on the freezer door of a side-by-side. This is a convenience feature many Australians value.
Even temperature distribution: Both columns have dedicated cooling circuits, maintaining very even temperatures.
Double-door access: When two people need the fridge simultaneously (common in family households), each can open their side independently.
Disadvantages of Side-by-Side
Narrow door opening: The narrower individual doors limit what can be placed on shelves. Wide platters, full-size pizza boxes, and large baking trays often don't fit across a single shelf without angling.
Less efficient freezer space: The tall, narrow freezer column is less efficient for storing bulky frozen items than a wide bottom-mount drawer.
Width: At 905mm, side-by-side fridges require a wider kitchen cavity than the standard 600mm. Many Australian kitchens with standard cabinets can't accommodate them without renovation.
Who Is a Side-by-Side Fridge Best For?
- Households that access the freezer constantly (makes sense to have it at eye level)
- Those who want a water/ice dispenser in the door
- Households with two people who frequently access the fridge simultaneously
- Kitchens wide enough to accommodate 905mm fridges
Find Side-by-Side Fridges at Oceania Appliances
We stock side-by-side fridges and all fridge styles. Shop at oceaniaappliances.com.au/collections/fridges. Free Sydney delivery, 3-month warranty on certified refurbished models.