The Best Counter-Depth Refrigerators for 2025
December 5th, 2024 | 19 min. read
Refrigerators have evolved over the years, offering various options—from classic French doors to multi-door units with various cooling systems.
But the biggest development is in size. Somehow, counter-depth refrigerators have become much larger.
This article will teach you about your best choices, from the basic to the largest models, and their reliability based on real service calls.
Let's get started.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Why This Article Is Worth Your Time
You can read some well-written articles from various news sources and enthusiastic bloggers.
As well-written as they are, you have no insight into the product's advantages, disadvantages, and performance after the sale.
Not here.
Based on the over 33,000 service calls our service department logged last year, you will learn the good, the bad, and the reliable.
The Evolution of Counter-Depth Refrigerators
The first counter-depth refrigerator was a Sub-Zero. Yes, they were the first with twin and fancy compressors up top.
However, designers loved them because a Sub-Zero didn't protrude into the kitchen.
The second counter-depth refrigerator was Amana.
From there, counter-depth refrigerators have changed in configuration and style and are a bit larger, ranging from 19.9 to 22 cubic feet.
Then, the LG Counter-Depth MAX refrigerator changed everything with its 26.5 cubic feet capacity in 2023.
The Best Counter-Depth Refrigerators for 2025
Bosch B36CT81SNS
Bosch 800 Series 36" French Door Bottom Mount Refrigerator
Dimensions: 35 5/8" W, 31 1/8" D, 72" H | Total Capacity: 20.8 Cu. Ft. | Stainless Steel Interior: Yes | Ice Maker: Yes | Wi-Fi: Yes | Sabbath Mode: Yes | ADA Compliant: No
This Bosch counter-depth refrigerator was introduced two years ago. It is built by Bosch in China rather than being outsourced there.
Best Features of the Bosch B36CT81SNS
Two Compressors
Bosch and their sister company Thermador are the only counter-depth refrigerators with two compressors for the refrigerator and freezer.
The warmer, moist air of the refrigerator does not blend with the drier, colder air of the freezer. They are independent of each other.
Dual compressors have the best chance of maintaining temperature and are more efficient.
Sub-Zero pioneered the twin compressor. Now, every premium refrigerator features twin compressors.
Beko, Samsung, GE, and LG, except for the Counter Depth MAX refrigerator, have two evaporators to separate the air.
Two evaporators control temperature, humidity, and odor well but are not as precise as two compressors.
VitaFreshPro
VitaFreshPro balances temperature and humidity for various food types, removing the guesswork from food storage.
MultiAirFlow
The two compressors regulate the airflow to provide a stable temperature throughout the refrigerator.
Metal Back
The back of the refrigerator is made of metal for better cold retention and cleanability.
To make the most of this feature, store items like milk and juice in the back of the fridge, where they are coldest.
Additionally, stainless steel is easier to clean and does not absorb odors.
Ethylene Filter
Bosch also features an ethylene filter to slow the spoiling process. Spoiled foods will emit ethylene gas. This gas can also cross-contaminate other foods.
Wi-Fi Enabled
Through their HomeConnect app, you can control the temperature of your refrigerator on your phone.
Bosch also offers this refrigerator with different handles. The design is well done, and it is a good-looking appliance.
Pros and Cons of the Bosch B36CT81SNS
Pros: Bosch is the only counter-depth refrigerator with two compressors for the refrigerator and freezer, which maintains temperature better and prevents moisture and odor transfer.
The refrigerator's metal back wall is designed to increase cold retention, and the ethylene filter helps prevent food cross-contamination.
The HomeConnect app allows you to control the temperature of your refrigerator on your phone, and the refrigerator comes with different handle options.
Cons: The cubic footage is slightly smaller than the average at 20.8 cubic while the average is about 23 cubic.
The price is high at $3,600, although it's less expensive in a package up to $500 off when you combine it with other Bosch appliances.
Key Highlights of the Bosch B36CT81SNS:
- Wi-Fi Enabled: Allows remote monitoring and control via the Home Connect app, offering convenience and technological integration.
- FarmFresh System: A combination of four innovative technologies, including VitaFreshPro, FreshProtect®, AirFresh® Filter, and MultiAirFlow™, to enhance food preservation and minimize waste.
- VitaFreshPro: Automatically balances temperature and humidity for various food types, removing the guesswork from food storage.
- MultiAirFlow: Ensures even air circulation and consistent temperatures throughout the fridge, enhancing food freshness.
- Dual Compressors and Evaporators: Offer efficient and precise cooling and humidity control while limiting odor transfer between the fridge and freezer.
- Adjustable FlexBar: Customizable storage space that utilizes typically unused areas in the refrigerator.
- Energy Star Certified: Ensures energy efficiency and cost savings throughout the year.
- Interior Design: Features high-quality glass and stainless steel shelves, providing a durable interior.
- Sabbath Mode: Accommodates various lifestyles and dietary practices.
LG LRFLC2706S, LRFXC2606S, LRFOC2606S, LRYXC2606S, and LRYKC2606S
The largest counter-depth refrigerators have a capacity of 26.5 cubic feet, over four cubic feet more than the average.
That space is equivalent to a college dorm refrigerator (the stand-up type, not the cube).
With these refrigerators, you no longer need to choose between the size of a standard-depth model and the sleek style of a counter-depth one.
LG's counter-depth MAX refrigerators offer more capacity and a more counter-depth look.
Best Features of LG Refrigerators
The LG LRFLC2706S is the least expensive at $1,599 (during promotions) and features an internal water dispenser.
The LG Counter-Depth MAX refrigerator is the largest and least expensive of all your options.
The LRFXC2606S adds an ice and water dispenser, compared to just the water dispenser in the basic model.
For $200 more, it also includes dual ice makers—one in the refrigerator and one in the freezer.
The LRFOC2606S offers an outside water dispenser and an InstaView window. Just knock twice to see inside your refrigerator and knock twice more to darken it again.
In addition, LG has added two models to the LG Counter-Depth MAX collection.
The LRYXC2606S has three ice makers that offer four different style cubes. You have a standard cube, mini cubed, crushed ice for soft drinks, and the slow-melting round craft ice.
Craft Ice is a slower-dissolving ice sphere designed for drinks with less water from a dissolving ice cube.
The LRYKC2606S has the Smart Mirror for a more updated version of the InstaView Panel.
The dispenser is their new UVnano Ice and Water Dispenser, which cleans the dispenser automatically using UV light.
They also have the SRFB27S3 under the LG Studio name at $2,799.
Linear Compressor
Linear compressors use fewer parts and have fewer problems now.
I say now because, in 2019, they settled a class action suit against LG due to compressor issues from 2014 to 2017
Many brands and products now feature the same compressor.
Warranty
LG has the best warranty with five years full and ten years parts only on the compressor.
Cool Guard
Like the Bosch, the Counter Depth MAX refrigerator features a metal back to absorb cold better.
Door Cooling Plus
Ever walked into a store in the summer, and the air conditioner is just blasting you in the face?
Door Cooling + operates the same way. A blast of frigid air is sent from the top down, creating a wall, so the refrigerator temperature stays unaffected by the warmer air.
The door is also thicker, so be careful where you place it in your kitchen.
Pros and Cons of LG Refrigerators
Pros: The Counter Depth MAX refrigerator is the largest counter-depth model available, providing over four cubic feet more space than the average.
It also features advanced temperature control with nine sensors, a metal back for better cold absorption, and Door Cooling Plus to maintain a consistent temperature.
Cons: The Counter Depth MAX refrigerator is designed with thinner walls than most refrigerators. The government sets energy standards so it will not use more energy.
It also has a single compressor with one evaporator versus two evaporators of other models.
Key Highlights of LG Refrigerators
- Large Capacity: The LG Counter Max offers an industry-leading counter-depth fridge capacity of 26 cubic feet, 3-7 cubic feet larger than the average counter-depth
- Door Cooling+: Delivers blasts of cool air to reach all refrigerator areas, ensuring even cooling throughout.
- Dual Ice Makers: Located in both the door and freezer, ensuring a plentiful supply of ice when needed.
- Slim SpacePlus Ice System: Designed for more shelf space, allowing maximum storage while accommodating the ice makers.
- Cool Guard Interior: Features wall panels that help maintain consistent cooling in a premium style.
Samsung RF23A9071SR
Samsung 23 cu. ft. Smart Counter Depth 4-Door Flex Refrigerator
Dimensions: 35 7/8" W, 28 1/2" D, 71 7/8" H | Total Capacity: 22.9 Cu. Ft. | Stainless Steel Interior: Yes | Ice Maker: Yes | Wi-Fi: Yes | Sabbath Mode: Yes | ADA Compliant: Yes
We don't sell Samsung refrigerators, but they offer interesting options and colors.
Their Family Hub models feature built-in touchscreens, and their Bespoke line allows customization.
However, I was always partial to their four-door options.
The bottom right drawer allows you to convert to either refrigerator or freezer.
You have an internal water dispenser and two types of ice: regular and ice bites, the more chewable kind.
Best Features of the Samsung RF23A9071SR
AutoFill Water Pitcher
A built-in pitcher that automatically refills with filtered water and the option to infuse with a flavor of your choice.
Dual Ice Maker with Ice Bites and Cubed Ice
The Dual Ice Maker produces two types of ice daily: cubed ice and Ice Bites, smaller nugget ice that chills your drink faster.
FlexZone
With five temperature settings, the lower-right compartment lets you switch between fridge and freezer, making it easy to adjust to your family’s storage needs.
FlexCrisper
This flexible storage drawer, with two customizable temperature settings, is perfect for storing meats, veggies, or cheeses at their optimal temperature.
UV Deodorizing Filter
Keep the air in your fridge fresh daily with a built-in deodorizing filter with UV technology that continuously cleans the filter.
CleanGuard
Treated with antimicrobial technology to deliver long-lasting protection of high-touch handle surfaces.
Triple Cooling System
A premium cooling system features three evaporators for ultimate freshness and provides precise temperature and humidity controls in all three zones to help your food stay fresher longer.
Pros and Cons of the Samsung RF23A9071SR
Pros: The Samsung 4-door refrigerator is very versatile. The bottom-right drawer can switch between a fridge or a freezer, giving you more storage options.
It also has a Dual Ice Maker for regular and chewable Ice Bites.
The AutoFill Water Pitcher refills itself, and the FlexZone lets you adjust the temperature for different types of food.
Cons: The service is an issue for Samsung. They are the most popular brand yet are the least vested in service. Their problems will become your issues.
Key Highlights of the Samsung RF23A9071SR
- AutoFill Water Pitcher: A built-in pitcher that automatically refills with filtered water and allows you to add flavors for convenience and hydration.
- Dual Ice Maker: Produces both traditional ice cubes and smaller nugget-style ice, perfect for chilling drinks quickly.
- FlexZone Compartment: The bottom-right section can switch between being a fridge or freezer, offering five different temperature settings to suit your needs.
- 23 Cu. Ft. of Capacity: Provides plenty of room for your groceries, along with adjustable compartments for better organization.
- Odor-Fighting Filter: A UV deodorizing filter keeps the fridge fresh by reducing odors and self-cleaning over time.
- Smart Connectivity: Syncs with your phone via Wi-Fi to send alerts, control settings, and monitor performance remotely.
- Precise Cooling: Maintains optimal temperature and humidity levels in each zone to keep food fresher longer.
SKS SKSFD3613S
This refrigerator is the most well-featured for a 36-inch counter-depth.
You have the features mentioned previously, like Door Cooling Plus, linear compressor, and stainless-steel back.
Best Features of the SKS SKSFD3613S
Door-in-Door
It features a Door-in-Door, a fancy term for an extra door on the refrigerator side to access milk and juices.
InstaView Door
You can see into your refrigerator or tap the glass, which becomes opaque.
Twin Evaporator Nine Sensors
Like the Counter Max, the Studio features nine sensors to maintain temperature. However, it has two evaporators to keep the air in the freezer separate from the refrigerator.
Craft Ice
"Craft Ice" is a larger, slower-dissolving ice cube perfect for premium cocktails. You see many of these cubes in high-end restaurants.
Dispenser
I shudder when I write this. Dispensers have the most problems, but the refrigerator does not break down due to leaking. On the flip side, they are convenient.
My neighbor has a refrigerator with an ice dispenser; the ice is convenient versus reaching the freezer for cubes.
That said, LG is the most reliable of the dispensers.
Pros and Cons of the SKS SKSFD3613S
Pros: The SKSFD3613S has impressive features such as a Door-in-Door panel, InstaView, and Craft Ice.
Additionally, the refrigerator's temperature control ensures your food stays fresh for longer.
Cons: The SKSFD3613S has unique features but costs over $4,000.
Key Highlights of the SKS SKSFD3613S
- InstaView Door-in-Door: This feature offers convenient access to favorite beverages and snacks and reduces cold air loss by eliminating the need to open the main refrigerator door.
- Dual Ice Maker with Craft Ice: This refrigerator produces standard ice cubes, crushed ice, and LG's exclusive slow-melting round Craft Ice™, perfect for entertaining and cocktail making.
- Smart Cooling Plus System: This system ensures that food stays fresh longer. It is designed to maintain superior conditions within the refrigerator and freezer with two evaporators and compressors.
- Micro Surface LED: Provides bright, energy-efficient, and long-lasting illumination.
- ThinQ App Compatible: This allows for smart refrigerator management. The ThinQ® app's Smart Learner analyzes habits to anticipate temperature, ice, and energy needs.
- 23.5 cu. Ft. Total Capacity: Large capacity with smart organization solutions to store more food efficiently.
- Counter-Depth Design: Offers a built-in look by fitting nearly flush with surrounding cabinetry.
- Energy Star Certified: This refrigerator is energy-efficient, which can lead to cost savings on utility bills.
Café Appliances CYE22TP2MS1
Café is the premium GE freestanding line of appliances above Profile and the base GE.
Best Features of the Café CYE22TP2MS1
Twin evaporators
Café's twin-cooling two-evaporator refrigerator keeps the refrigerator and freezer air in their respective compartments, using the Turbo Cool and Turbo Freeze features to maintain even temperatures.
Door Dispenser
The refrigerator has a digital ice maker, a built-in Insta hot water dispenser, and a Keurig.
Wi-Fi
With Wi-Fi, you can program the coffee to be dispensed when you wake up using the dispenser model.
Colorful Finishes
Café offers great customization options, with three base color options and six handle styles. More colors, like green and gray, are coming soon.
Have a look at Café White and Brass:
How about black and copper:
Service
Style aside, the café is the only refrigerator with a service department on this list. Appliance service is a crucial consideration in your buying decision (or it should be).
Service is a crucial consideration in your buying decision (or should be).
Service is a crucial consideration in your buying decision (or should be).Pros and Cons of the Café CYE22TP2MS1
Pros: The Café refrigerator features two evaporators to maintain an even temperature and separate cold air compartments.
It also has a digital icemaker, can make coffee or tea, and is customizable with various colors and handle styles.
A precise fill setting allows the exact amount of water to be dispensed.
Cons: You are paying a premium over the Profile model for customization and a few features.
To compare a more affordable option without the coffee system, consider the GE Profile PWE23KYNFS, priced at $2,969.
However, it's still more expensive and smaller than the Counter Depth Max, which ranges from $1,599 to $1,799.
Key Highlights of the Café CYE22TP2MS1
- Counter-Depth Design: This creates a sleek, built-in look, blending seamlessly with kitchen cabinetry.
- Water Dispenser: Delivers chilled filtered water, hot water for tea, and a Keurig coffee dispensing
- Customizable Hardware: Offers the flexibility to choose different finishes to complement various kitchen styles.
- Smart Features: Built-in Wi-Fi, powered by SmartHQ™, allows for remote monitoring and control via a smartphone app.
- Large Capacity: Provides 23.1 cubic feet of storage space, ideal for large families or those who entertain frequently.
- Energy Star Certified: Ensures energy efficiency for environmental sustainability and cost savings.
Fisher and Paykel RF201ADX5 N
According to our internal service data, Fisher and Paykel was the most reliable refrigerator brand 2022.
Fisher and Paykel also has a unique style and looks good compared to other unique Fisher and Paykel appliances.
Best Features of the Fisher and Paykel RF201ADX5 N
The refrigerator is based on ActiveSmart technology.
Fisher and Paykel's ActiveSmart technology provides optimal food storage conditions by intelligently adapting to daily usage.
It combines sensors, microprocessors, and algorithms to continuously monitor and adjust the temperature, humidity, and airflow within the fridge.
Key Components of ActiveSmart technology include:
- Temperature sensors: These sensors constantly monitor the temperature inside the fridge and freezer compartments, sending data to the microprocessor.
- Microprocessor: This central processing unit uses temperature data to determine the most efficient cooling strategy, adjusting the compressor's operation accordingly.
- Variable-speed fans: The microprocessor adjusts to distribute cool air evenly throughout the compartments.
- Humidity control system: This system maintains optimal humidity levels in the fridge by managing the airflow and condensation. It helps prevent food from drying out or becoming too moist.
- Adaptive defrost: The defrost cycle only starts when detecting usage patterns and conditions inside the fridge, reducing energy consumption and ensuring optimal cooling efficiency.
Pros and Cons of the Fisher and Paykel RF201ADX5 N
Pros: ActiveSmart technology monitors and adjusts the fridge's temperature, humidity, and airflow for optimal food storage conditions.
Cons: Smaller sizes at higher prices. With any unique brands, make sure service is available.
Fisher and Paykel does not make a counter-depth fridge with an exterior ice and water dispenser. You can get exterior water, but the ice is in the freezer.
Key Highlights of the Fisher and Paykel RF201ADX5 N
- ActiveSmart Foodcare Technology: Like a Nest, this feature learns how you use your refrigerator and adjusts the temperature, airflow, and humidity inside to help keep food fresher for longer.
- Spill-Safe Glass Shelves: The shelves are designed to contain drips and spills for easier cleanup.
- High-Quality Design and Materials: The refrigerator uses quality materials, including real stainless steel, for durability and a sleek look.
- Complementary Design: Designed to match the rest of Fisher and Paykel's kitchen appliance family, with premium handle styling and stainless steel finish.
- Humidity Control Slides: These slides in each storage bin create a microclimate that helps keep fruits and vegetables fresher for longer.
- Energy Efficient: Energy Star certified, ensuring lower energy usage and cost savings.
- Fast Freeze: Quickly lowers the freezer's temperature for faster item freezing.
- Smart Touch Control Panel: This is for easy adjustment of refrigerator settings.
- Adaptive Defrost: Adjusts defrosting times for efficiency and better food care.
- Sabbath Mode: Accommodates various lifestyles and dietary practices.
The Best 33-inch Counter Depth Refrigerators
Samsung RF18HFENBSR
French Door RF18HFENBSR 17.5 cu.ft
For many years, Samsung owned this size with a good refrigerator at an excellent price.
This refrigerator was one of the most popular searches on our website for any product. Samsung was the largest and most popular at 18 cubic feet.
It is a French-door refrigerator with a pull-out bottom freezer.
This unit is popular because of the $1,399 price.
Like GE, it has two evaporators for better temperature maintenance and no crossover between refrigerator and freezer.
However, finding a service for Samsung appliances can be challenging. Samsung has a bigger logistical problem because it is the number-one-selling brand in the US.
You need to know who can fix your Samsung refrigerator—or any appliance—before buying it.
Key Highlights of the Samsung RF18HFENBSR
- Capacity: This refrigerator's capacity, including the fridge and freezer compartments, is typically approximately 17.5 cubic feet.
- French Door Design: The RF18HFENBSR features a French door design with two side-by-side refrigerator doors and a pull-out freezer drawer at the bottom.
- Twin Cooling Plus: Samsung's Twin Cooling Plus technology helps maintain separate and optimal humidity levels in the refrigerator and freezer compartments, preventing odors from mixing and keeping food fresher for longer.
- Adjustable Shelves: The refrigerator compartment typically has adjustable glass shelves that can be customized to accommodate different-sized items.
- Gallon Door Bins: The door often features large bins that conveniently store large beverage containers and other items.
- LED Lighting: LED lighting illuminates the refrigerator's interior, providing bright and energy-efficient illumination.
- Power Freeze and Power Cool: Allows rapid cooling and freezing of items when needed.
- Ice Maker: The RF18HFENBSR has an automatic ice maker in the freezer compartment.
- Door Alarm: An audible door alarm alerts you if the refrigerator or freezer door is left open
- Digital Display and Controls: The external digital display and controls on the front of the refrigerator allow you to adjust settings and monitor the temperature easily.
- Energy Efficiency: Samsung refrigerators typically meet or exceed energy efficiency standards, helping to reduce energy consumption.
LG LF21C6200S
At 20.5 cubic feet, LG is the largest, by about two to three cubic feet or about 10-18% of the other brands.
It is roughly the same size as the Bosch B36CT80SNS 36-inch counter depth in a smaller 33-inch space.
This refrigerator is built like their successful Counter-Depth MAX refrigerators, with thinner walls and newer, more advanced insulation.
So now you have a much larger refrigerator in a smaller space.
The refrigerator uses one evaporator and two sensors to maintain proper temperatures instead of their standard two-evaporator design.
LG uses the Door Cooling+ with vents to cool from top to bottom and from the rear to keep a consistent temperature.
You can buy it as a French door or in two double-drawer models.
Key Highlights of the LG LF21C6200S
- Smart Cooling System: LG's Smart Cooling System uses multiple sensors to maintain optimal temperature and humidity levels throughout the refrigerator, ensuring your food stays fresh for longer.
- Linear Compressor: LG refrigerators often include an Inverter Linear Compressor, designed to be energy-efficient and provide quiet and precise cooling.
- Digital Temperature Controls: These controls, often located on the front of the refrigerator, allow you to adjust and monitor the temperature settings easily.
- CustomChill Drawer: The CustomChill® drawer is a versatile middle drawer with different temperature settings to accommodate various foods and beverages.
- Adjustable Shelves and Bins: LG refrigerators typically have adjustable shelves and bins in the refrigerator compartment, providing flexibility in storage space.
- Fresh Air Filter: An air filter helps to remove odors and keeps the interior air fresh.
- LED Lighting: LED lights provide bright and energy-efficient lighting, making it easy to see and access items in the refrigerator.
- Smart Technology: Some LG models are compatible with LG's SmartThinQ™ technology, which allows you to control and monitor the refrigerator remotely via a smartphone app.
- Door Alarm: An audible door alarm alerts you if the refrigerator or freezer doors are left open
Read More: For a more in-depth guide of the best 33-inch counter depth refrigerators, read "The Best 33-Inch Counter-Depth Refrigerators."
Are Counter-Depth Refrigerators Reliable?
We've already discussed the best refrigerators, but now it's time to examine the reality of appliance service.
What brands are the most reliable? And what kind of problems can you expect to run into?
Look closer at the most reliable refrigerator brands and the service industry.
Refrigerator Reliability for 2025
The following service rates are based on a minimum of 100 products sold and a total sample of over 2,000 products within 12 months.
Service Rate | |
LG Studio | 7.4% |
LG | 8.4% |
Bosch | 12.5% |
GE Appliances | 19.2% |
Café Appliances | 19.6% |
GE Profile | 21.6% |
Grand Total | 12.1% |
Service has increased across the board for every manufacturer.
We have more service technicians on the road in our history and can only service customers who purchased from us.
New parts sources after the supply chain problems may have caused issues.
Fortunately, the problems aren't massive.
The top three service calls are:
- Ice maker not working
- Doors not closing properly
- Buzzing noise
However, you need someone to fix these eventually, so check service availability by brand in your area.
Key Takeaways
In years past, my advice was to buy based on availability. This year, you can wait for a holiday to save money.
At the same time, consider what features work best for you and your family.
LG will be the largest, while Bosch and GE are also worth considering.
Lastly, service availability is an important consideration because you’ll need it eventually.
How to Buy a Counter-Depth Refrigerator
Buying the right counter-depth refrigerator doesn't have to be difficult. This brief guide will help you choose one that fits your kitchen well.
We'll cover everything from sizes that match your cabinets to the types of refrigerators available.
You'll also learn how to measure your space correctly to ensure your new fridge fits.
Plus, we'll talk about the best time to buy a fridge at a good price.
Refrigerator Size
Refrigerators follow the size of cabinet widths.
The standard sizes for refrigeration and cabinets are 24, 30, 33, 36, 42, and 48 inches, with 30 and 36 inches being the most popular.
However, heights and depths have changed as refrigerators have become taller. If you are replacing a refrigerator, measure the space, not the existing refrigerator.
You also want to measure all the doorways and entry points before delivery because your hallways and doorways may need to accommodate a new refrigerator.
Here is our free appliance delivery checklist to help you with other aspects of delivery.
Refrigerator Types
The most popular counter-depth refrigerator is a French door model with the refrigerator on top and the freezer on the bottom.
There are many types, such as two-drawer, French doors, four-door, and five-drawer. Before choosing a type, you must assess how much freezer versus refrigerator space is needed.
Top-mount refrigerators are inexpensive and have a good usable size. Side-by-side refrigerators have more freezer capacity and are less expensive than counter-depth French-door refrigerators.
Reliability
GE is the best if you are looking for a technical product with an ice dispenser.
GE has excellent service in many areas, but before buying a new refrigerator, you must ask who will fix it.
We calculated our reliability based on how many French door counter-depth refrigerators were sold and serviced by brand.
With 35 technicians in the field, we logged over 33,000 service calls in 12 months.
However, reliability varies between brands. You must be aware of potential problems before you buy any product.
We have stopped selling any brands with a disproportionate amount of service.
Counter-depth refrigerators have ice dispensers in the warmer refrigerator instead of the freezer, like a side-by-side refrigerator.
Reliability is now the biggest issue because appliance replacement parts are even worse than new product availability.
It is possible that you could wait 60 days for a repair.
If you are asking, I would buy one now.
How to Buy a Counter-Depth Refrigerator for Less
From 2020-2022, availability was an issue, but now every major company has plenty of inventory
.Buying appliances from 2020 to 2022 was a hassle.
Factories shut down, disrupting supply chains. Then, demand for appliances skyrocketed as people started remodeling.
But now the tables have turned.
Manufacturers have overproduced to lesser demand.
To exact revenge, follow the 2019 playbook when brands were killing each other for your hard-earned dollars.
Wait for a holiday, especially a promotional one, and save 10- 35%.
The best times to buy appliances are:
- Presidents' Day: February
- Memorial Day: May
- July 4th: July
- MA Tax-Free Weekend: August
- Labor Day: September
- Black Friday: All of November
New holidays may emerge in a struggling economy, so keep your eyes peeled for additional savings opportunities.
If you're looking for more tips on selecting the perfect refrigerator for your home, check out our guide: "The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Refrigerator"
The guide provides detailed insights and expert advice to help you make the best decision for your kitchen.
FAQs
Learn answers to the most frequently asked questions about counter-depth refrigerators.
What is a counter-depth refrigerator?
Unlike a normal refrigerator, a counter-depth refrigerator does not protrude from the cabinets. It looks better because you will not see the sides jutting out 5-8 inches in your kitchen.
You also benefit from a shallower refrigerator in a galley kitchen or island design. There will be more room between the refrigerator and the island itself.
What's the difference between standard depth and counter-depth refrigerators?
Regular counter-depths are shallower refrigerators. The doors will be the only depth sticking out past the cabinet or countertop.
Do counter-depth refrigerators cost more than a standard depth?
Yes, a counter depth will cost $100-500 more than a comparable standard depth refrigerator. If the next question is why fewer cubic feet cost more, I do not know.
How do I measure my space for a counter-depth refrigerator?
Refrigerators are produced to fit the cabinets. It is uncommon for a 36-inch refrigerator to be wider than a 36-inch-wide cabinet.
However, you want to measure your height and your hallways and doorways.
What's the difference between counter-depth, integrated, and professional refrigerators?
While they are all called counter-depth, there are significant differences between the three styles. Regular counter-depth refrigerators are shallower refrigerators. Typically, only the doors will protrude from the cabinets.
Integrated refrigerators fit inside the standard cabinet, making them seamless and indistinguishable from the cabinet itself. The doors do protrude on the pro and regular counter-depth refrigerators. Integrated refrigerators, like professional refrigerators, will cost a lot more.
Professional refrigerators are taller at 84 inches and have compressors on the top with a "restaurant" or commercial look for a much higher price of $8,000-16,000.
What's the real difference between two compressors and one compressor with two evaporators?
The main advantage of a refrigerator with two compressors is more cooling power and faster temperature recovery.
Twin compressors will help if you are frequently in and out of your refrigerator.
However, this design is typically more expensive and may use more energy than a single compressor system.
A refrigerator with one compressor and two evaporators is more energy efficient and can offer better temperature control and freshness for different types of food.
However, it will take longer to recover from temperature changes.
Additional Resources
Download the Yale Counter Depth Refrigerator Buying Guide with features, specs, and inside buying tips for regular, pro, and integrated counter-depth refrigerators. Well over 1 million people have read a Yale Guide.
Related Articles
- How to Buy a Refrigerator: The Ultimate Guide
- Best 33-Inch Counter Depth Refrigerators
- The Best 48-inch Counter-Depth Refrigerators
- Most Reliable Counter Depth Refrigerators
- Project Produce: Which Refrigerator Keeps Food Fresh the Longest?
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Steve Sheinkopf is the third-generation CEO of Yale Appliance and a lifelong Bostonian. He has over 38 years of experience in the appliance industry, and he is a trusted source of information for consumers on how to buy and repair appliances.
Steve has also been featured in numerous publications, including the
New York Times,
Consumer Reports,
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Bloomberg Radio, the
New York Post,
The Wall Street Journal, and
Entrepreneur, for his knowledge of how to buy appliances and appliance repair.
Steve is passionate about helping consumers find the best appliances for their needs, and he is always happy to answer questions and provide advice. He is a valuable resource for consumers who are looking for information on appliance buying, repair, and maintenance.
Despite being the worst goalie in history, Steve is a fan of the Bruins and college hockey, loves to read, and is a Peloton biker. The love of his life is his daughter, Sophie.
A Note About Pricing
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.
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