A counter-depth refrigerator is a full-size model with or without a freezer compartment. This style of a refrigerator has become quite popular but there are pros and cons to consider before shopping for one. Show The Term Counter-Depth Can Be MisleadingThe term counter-depth, though widely used amongst retailers, can be misleading because the actual measurement can vary somewhat from the standard counter depth of 25 inches. Especially in a large kitchen, it's not unusual to find bottom cabinets that are much deeper than the standard 24-inch depth and the counter will protrude further, usually by an inch. So counter-depth can be deeper than the average, ranging from 25 to 30 inches. Hence the importance of taking careful, precise measurements of the allowable space, when shopping for appliances. Do not assume that all counter-depth refrigerators are the same size; they can vary in depth by several inches. Cabinet-DepthWhen it comes to compact, under-counter refrigerators, coolers and freezers, these are usually referred to as cabinet-depth and though these can vary from the standard, most will be 24 inches so that they will be flush with the cabinetry once installed, much the same as a built-in dishwasher. And since most freestanding wine coolers are counter-depth, that leaves a counter-depth versus standard depth decision mostly applicable to freestanding refrigerators, freezers, and beverage coolers. Most upright freezers are standard depth, but freezers that are designed to be custom installed as a companion to a refrigerator are often counter depth for a more integrated style. Since the pros and cons will be similar for these appliances, this article will focus more on refrigerators. Is a Counter-Depth Refrigerator Best for You?The idea when choosing a counter-depth refrigerator is to have a more streamlined look—that in itself is very pleasing to the eye. This design style is available for all types of refrigerators—all refrigerator, bottom or top freezer, side-by-side and French door models. They are sometimes higher and usually wider than traditional depth models of the same capacity and this may be something you'll want to consider when installing a new refrigerator. Though the counter-depth design is a very popular choice and since this is a long-term appliance investment, you'll want to consider the benefits as well as the constraints, to this refrigerator model. Also note that the door of a counter-depth fridge will protrude slightly from the edge of the counter and the same goes for the handle, so depth may not include these in the measurements. The Benefits
The Trade-Off
What Is a Crisper?A crisper is generally a drawer that can help produce stay fresh in the refrigerator. It usually has a separate humidity control from the rest of the refrigerator, so you can adjust the humidity level to suit the type of produce in the drawer (e.g., leafy greens do best with high humidity). This just emphasizes the importance of measuring your space before ordering. With today's custom kitchen designs, there's more risk of deviating from what some might call standard. And read full appliance specs, the term counter-depth may not be included in the model title. At one time, market availability of counter-depth refrigerators was limited, but this popular model is now much easier to find. Which is better counterIf you need to conserve space for a better flow in your kitchen, go with a counter-depth. If you have a large family, though, we recommend regular-depth to ensure you'll have plenty of space to meet your daily needs. Meanwhile, avoid costly mistakes by carefully measuring your space.
What is the standard depth for a fridge?Refrigerators are categorized between counter-depth and standard-depth models, with refrigerator depth ranging from 24 to 36 inches deep. Counter-depth fridges align with the edges of countertops and measure between 24 to 30 inches deep, whereas standard-depth appliances may extend to 30 to 36 inches.
Why is counterTo achieve the same capacity as a standard appliance, a shallower counter-depth appliance needs to be considerably wider. This can mean a reduction in countertop space, as well as a wider door that requires a larger swing radius. And this special design may cost more than a standard appliance.
Do counterBecause counter-depth fridges are shallower than standard ones, they tend to offer less cubic feet of interior food storage space. Standard fridge/freezer combos average between 22 and 31 cubic feet of space, while baseline counter-depth fridges are between 20 and 23 cubic feet.
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