Standard Refrigerator Space Size

Additional Space Needed

• Whatever the height of the standard refrigerator may be, you need to have at least 1 inch of open space between the top of the unit and the ceiling or cabinet above the unit. The space size required for a refrigerator includes the additional space needed for the side clearance from the wall or cabinets, which is 1/8 inch. The space needed behind the refrigerator is 1 inch from the wall.

Air Circulation

• The additional space needed for a standard refrigerator pertains to air circulation. If you place the unit tight against the wall or cabinet, the air from the compressor cannot circulate and escape. The hot air stays by the refrigerator, making the area hotter than it would be if you had air circulation.

Temperatures

• Standard refrigerators must be used in an area that is no warmer than 100 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature is above this, the refrigerator will run more often trying to keep the internal temperature cold. This will cause higher electrical cost, as well as wear and tear on the compressor. When you don’t leave the proper space between the refrigerator and the walls or cabinets, the temperature around the unit can rise above the recommended temperature.

Cord and Water Line Placement

• If you are plugging the refrigerator into an electrical outlet behind or on the side of the unit, you will need more space so that when you plug the refrigerator cord into the outlet, the cord is not crushed between the wall and the refrigerator. For example, if the outlet is behind the unit, you need 1 inch for clearance from the wall for the unit, plus more space to accommodate the plug or water line.