Living in a city with smaller homes like Boston can be challenging when buying refrigerators. We have tight hallways, islands, or even height restrictions. For this reason, a shallow refrigerator will have better flow and appearance.
Yet, almost all manufacturers do not market a 33" counter depth refrigerator. You probably have had a hard time finding one.
Most counter depth refrigerators are 36” width and 70” high. Fisher & Paykel model E522BRX and the Samsung RF18HFENBSR cater to these smaller kitchens.
They are built to fit within a 33” wide cabinet. Though both are similar in size, they have a few unique features.
Fisher & Paykel
Fisher Paykel is a conglomerate based in New Zealand. Their claim to fame was the double drawer dishwasher. Their line is limited, but they have a number of smaller counter depth refrigerators.
E522BRX - $1,569
Fisher & Paykel E522BRX is availabile with one door swing as a bottom mount freezer. The height is only 67” tall. Even though physically the unit is only 31” width, a 33” width opening is required because of the hinge swing.
ActiveSmart is a key feature to the Fisher & Paykel refrigerator. ActiveSmart adjusts the cold air between the refrigerator and freezer based on your daily use. It also keeps the temperature to the exact degree, ensuring persistent quality and keeping food fresh.
The E522BRX5 does not have an ice maker. Just plain ice trays included. It must be ordered correctly with specific hinges (not reversible). They do have a model with a water dispenser at a an additional cost.
Their stainless steel is their Ez-Kleen fingerprint proof which will also protect and keep the refrigerator looking new at all times.
The lastest Fisher Paykel E522BRX5 is EnergyStar rated.
Samsung
Samsung is a huge Korean conglomerate manufacturing just about everything. Their smallest division is appliances, and they are most known for refrigerators and laundry.
RF18HFENBSR - $1,449
Samsung RF197ACRS is 33” wide and 71" 13/16 height. The French doors will allow for lighter and easier opening. Each of the French door can hold gallon bins.
Twin cooling is the best feature of this refrigerator. A twin cooling system has two separate evaporators, which means the refrigerator will be stored at the right cooling temperature, while the freezer locks up cold air. Refrigerator is kept at higher humidity level keeping food fresher. Freezer has drier air preventing freezer burn.
The Samsung RF18HFENBSR comes standard with an automatic filtered ice maker. It also is Energy Star compliant and has LED lighting.
Samsung vs. Fisher Paykel Counter Depth Refrigerators
I like the cleanability and temperature control of the Fisher Paykel. It has a very clean and contemporary look, appealing to people who want something a bit different.
Samsung is cheaper to buy (especially during promotional periods) and less expensive to operate. The French door design is also more desirable especially in island configurations without swinging a bigger door. You also have an icemaker.
The downside to Korean manufacturers is the service aspect, but Fisher & Paykel is not much better.
Additional Resources
Our Counter Depth Refrigerator Buying Guide has sizes, terms and features invaluable in the buying process. Over 130,000 people have found answers in a Yale guide.
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Pricing on this blog is for reference only and may include time sensitive rebates. We make every attempt to provide accurate pricing at time of publishing. Please call the stores for most accurate price.
