A refrigerator runs around the clock for ten to fifteen years, so the choice matters more than most appliance buys. If you’re figuring out how to choose a refrigerator, you need to settle three things: how big it should be, which door style fits your kitchen, and how efficient it is.
As a starting point, plan on about four to six cubic feet of fridge space per adult, with a little more if you shop in bulk. Let’s go through size, style, measuring and energy ratings so you buy once and buy right.
How big should your refrigerator be?
Capacity is measured in cubic feet, and a common guideline is roughly four to six cubic feet for each adult, plus a bit more for a family that buys groceries in large amounts. A couple often does fine with 18 to 22 cubic feet total, and a family of four may want 25 or more.
Bigger isn’t always better. An oversized fridge half full wastes energy and floor space. On the other hand, one that’s too small leaves you cramming things in, which blocks airflow and spoils food faster.
Which refrigerator style suits you?
Each layout trades off space, access and looks. Here’s the quick rundown:
- Top freezer. Usually the most affordable and efficient. Fresh food sits at waist level, but the freezer is up high.
- Bottom freezer. Puts fresh food at eye level, with a pull-out freezer drawer below.
- Side by side. Narrow doors work well in tight aisles, but narrow shelves can’t fit wide platters or pizza boxes.
- French door. Wide fresh-food space with a bottom freezer. Popular, though often deeper and pricier.
- Counter depth. Sits flush with cabinets for a built-in look, with less total space.
- Compact or mini. Good for offices, dorms and basements.
Measure before you shop
This is the step people skip, and it’s the one that causes the most returns. Measure the opening’s width, height and depth, then add room for air. Many makers recommend an inch or so of clearance around the sides and top and a little at the back.
Don’t stop at the opening. Measure doorways, hallways, stairs and tight corners on the delivery path. Check door swing, too. French doors need room to open, and a door that hits a wall or island won’t open fully. Subtract from the listed dimensions if the handles stick out.
Understanding energy ratings
Look for the yellow EnergyGuide label in the U.S., which estimates yearly electricity use. Lower is better. Models with the ENERGY STAR mark meet efficiency guidelines and typically use less power than basic models.
Features affect use too. Through-the-door ice and water, extra drawers and big size can add to the total. Top-freezer models tend to be the most efficient in their class. Keep the fridge away from ovens and direct sun, which makes it work harder.
Features worth considering
- Adjustable shelves and door bins so you can fit tall bottles
- A humidity-controlled drawer for produce
- LED lighting, which is bright and runs cool
- Water filter access that’s easy to reach
- A quiet compressor, which matters in open-plan homes
- Smart features, if you’d actually use alerts
Skip extras you won’t use. Each added feature is one more part that can break.
Do you need a second freezer?
If you buy meat in bulk, cook ahead or hunt and fish, your fridge’s freezer may run out of room fast. A separate unit can free space and keep your kitchen fridge from being overfilled. If your garage gets hot or cold, check the temperature range, which our roundup of the best garage-ready upright freezers covers.
Planning for a new home? A fridge is a big-ticket item, so many buyers watch for it. Our list of the best new homeowner gifts has more useful ideas. And if you’re also considering a countertop cooker, compare it in air fryer vs convection oven.
Delivery, installation and daily care
A few details can save you a headache after the purchase. Ask whether the store will haul away your old fridge, and have coolers and ice ready for the day you swap them. If you’re adding an ice maker or water dispenser, you’ll need a water line nearby, and use a braided metal or copper line rather than a cheap plastic one that can leak.
Once it’s in, let the fridge run for several hours before you load it, since it needs time to cool down. Level it so the doors close on their own, and set the temperature with a thermometer rather than trusting the dial. Every few months, unplug the fridge, vacuum the coils and wipe the door seals. A little care keeps it running efficiently and helps it reach the longer end of its lifespan.
Frequently asked questions
How many cubic feet do I need for a family of four?
Most families land around 22 to 28 cubic feet, depending on how often they shop. Heavier shoppers may want the top of that range.
How long does a refrigerator last?
Many last roughly ten to fifteen years with good care. Cleaning the coils and keeping the door seals tight can help.
What temperature should a fridge be set to?
Food safety guidance says to keep the fridge at or below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, and the freezer at 0 degrees.
The bottom line
To choose a refrigerator, match capacity to your household, pick a door style that fits your space, measure everything and check the energy label. Ready to compare? Browse our guide to the best refrigerators next.