Finding the Perfect Fridge From Top to Bottom

Finding the perfect fridge isn’t easy. With so many styles out there it can feel overwhelming trying to make sense of it all. Do you need a Top Mount, a Side by Side, or maybe a French Door fridge? How do you know which fridge is right for you?

Whether you’re looking for a top of the line statement piece, something large and reliable to hold lots of groceries, or even something smaller to put snacks for the kids there’s a fridge to fit every need, at every budget.

With this guide to help, finding your new fridge couldn’t be easier.

Top Mount Refrigerator

Amana_Top Mount Refrigerator

Top Mount Refrigerator

With a full-width freezer on the top and a larger full-width refrigerator on the bottom, Top Mounts refrigerators offer exceptional value in a more traditional style. With the freezer at eye level, it’s great for families that store a lot of frozen foods but keep in mind that the top freezer design makes it less energy efficient compared to similar bottom freezers.

Available in a wide range of finishes from 24 – 33 inches wide, Top Mount refrigerators are perfect for singles and small families. At 15 – 21 cubic feet they offer fantastic storage capacity at an affordable price.

Bottom Mount Refrigerator

Bottom Mount Refrigerator

Bottom Mount Refrigerator

No surprises here, the Bottom Mount refrigerator has a full-width freezer on the bottom and a larger full-width fridge on the top. Many people prefer the convenience of an eye level fridge since they use it more often. And with both door and drawer freezers available, you’ll still have an easy time getting to your frozen foods.

Because the compressor doesn’t have to work as hard to keep the freezer cold, Bottom Mount fridges are more energy efficient than Top Mounts, and comparable models will cost less to run. Expect to find them in all finishes ranging anywhere from 30 – 36 inches wide with 19 – 24 cubic feet of storage space.

French Door Refrigerator

GWE19JMLES French Door Refrigerator in Slate

French Door Refrigerator

What started out as a tweak on Bottom Mount design, has grown into one of the most popular refrigerator styles in the world, the French Door refrigerator. The split doors offer an attractive, easy access to the fridge compartment, without demanding a lot of space.

Whirlpool French Door Refrigerator 4 doors

French Door Refrigerator, 4-Door

French Door refrigerators come in a number of configurations from 3, 4, or 5 doors, produce and chilling drawers, and some models even offer flexible temperature controls to expand your available refrigeration or freezer capacity. With so much versatility in their design, it’s no wonder they’re the go to style for many families.

Available in all finishes, French Door refrigerators offer the most features on the market and measure anywhere from 30 – 36 inches wide, with 18 – 32 cubic feet of storage.

Side-by-Side Refrigerator

Whirlpool Side by Side Refrigerator

Side by Side Refrigerator

The Side-by-Side refrigerator offers a full-length freezer and refrigerator in one unit. Their column styled design makes them an attractive addition to any kitchen, and the full-sized compartments offer tons of storage options. Measuring anywhere from 32 – 48 inches they boast 20 – 30 cubic feet of space making them a good choice for any family.

Built-In/Counter Depth Refrigerator

Built-in Panel Ready

Built-In Panel Ready Refrigerator

At the higher end, Built-In models are the refrigerator of choice. Built-In Panel Ready units can be outfitted with whichever panelled finish you choose, including the same cabinet exterior as your kitchen for a seamless look.

Built-In models are available in most styles, and from narrow columns to extra wide models, they offer the most size options of any design. Up to 84 inches high, with widths of up to 48 inches, they are designed to impress. And no question, they’re impressive.

Built-in Refrigerator

Built-in Refrigerator

Counter depth refrigerators offer a similar built-in look with a cabinet that extends just past your countertop. More wallet-friendly than a built-in model, some manufacturers even offer panel ready options.

Compact Refrigerator

Danby Compact Fridge

Compact Fridges

If you’re looking to expand your existing refrigeration, or you’re in the market for something smaller, a Compact Refrigerator or Mini Fridge are great options. Perfect for dorm rooms, bars, and offices these small units are more popular than ever.

From 1 – 6 cubic feet, compacts come in either All Fridge or Fridge/Freezer combinations, in a variety of styles and colours.

Undercounter and Built-In Drawer Refrigerators

KithchenAid Undercounter Fridge

Undercounter Refrigerator

Undercounter refrigerators are built-in beneath a standard countertop. With their compact design, they’re perfect for entertaining or extra storage. In addition to fully functional refrigerators and freezers, beverage centres and wine coolers are popular options. Usually measuring anywhere from 15 – 24 inches wide, undercounter models are available in a variety of styles including single and double drawer options.

Undercounter Refrigerator

Double Refrigerator Drawer

Now you know what’s out there; top to bottom mount. It’s time to hit the stores, hit the sites, and whatever you do don’t give up. Your perfect fridge is waiting for you.

Isabelle, Your Appliance Expert