How Much Does A Refrigerator Weigh? (By Types, Styles, Sizes)

Last Updated on June 6, 2022 by Kimberly Crawford

You might not understand why you need to know how much does a refrigerator weigh at this moment, but trust us when we say that you shall need it later when you do your first home move.

Refrigerator weights vary in terms of type, style, and size. While the weight is already expressed in the specification of the ref before you buy it, not all consumers really check it out. 

In this post, we shall look into refrigerator weights in different categories as well as ref moving tips for future reference. If this interests you, read on. 

Related: 7 Refrigerator Brands To Avoid and 5 Most Reliable Brands

Refrigerator weights by type

One of the most noticeable weight variances when it comes to refrigerators would be in terms of weight. In this section, we shall give a rundown of refrigerator weights by type.

From slight differences to significant variances in weight, we have listed here everything you should know about refrigerator weights by type. 

How much does a French door refrigerator weigh?

French door refrigerators are currently the most in demand in the market. As the name implies, they have side-by-side double doors for the top ref and at least two drawers below for the frozen items to be kept.

They are also the heaviest refrigerators, weighing from 230-390lbs. When it comes to per cubic foot capacity, they weigh 13lbs. 

How much does a side-by-side refrigerator weigh?

If you are into sleek designs and modern vibes, a side-by-side refrigerator is the one for you. Each door would have different functions. One side is for the frozen goods while the other one is basically the fridge. 

The ice dispenser is also typically located on the left door. The average weight of side-by-side refrigerators would be 285lbs. A solid range for different brands of this type would be 240-340lbs. They also have an average weight of 12lbs per cubic foot capacity. 

How much does a bottom freezer refrigerator weigh?

This is another classic ref style. As the term implies, this one is designed with the freezer at the bottom and the fridge on top. Bottom freezers are generally heavier than top freezers. As such, the average weight of this type of refrigerator would be 215lbs and a weight range in between 120-290lbs. As per cubic foot capacity, bottom freezers can accommodate 11lbs. 

How much does a top freezer refrigerator weigh?

For smaller households and more compact homes, the classic top freezer is always the best choice. This type of refrigerator is generally smaller and lighter compared to the others.

Their average weight would be 165lbs. Across brands, the weight range of top freezer refs would be in between 115-220lbs. 

While compact, they have a competitive per cubic foot capacity of 10lbs. This is significant to note because it just goes to show that weight and capacity do not necessarily rely on height and size. 

How much does a mini refrigerator weigh?

As you might have guessed from the name, these freezers are small and very compact, made for studio type spaces and small rooms.

Mini fridge models across brands have a weight of 60lbs at an average and a weight range of 22-95lbs. As for their per cubic foot weight capacity, mini refs can take in 13lbs.

The latter weight capacity is quite interesting because they can hold more compared to the bigger refrigerators listed here. 

How much does an under counter fridge weigh?

As the term implies, an under counter fridge is the one built-in beneath countertops and along the rows of cabinets underneath in the sink and area. They can be single-door or multi-door depending on the model and design.

When installing them, you have to know that they have a weight range of 60-130lbs. They might look compact and small, but they have a significant weight to look out for. 

The weight capacity of the under the counter fridge is also commendable as it could accommodate 10 cubic foot weight capacity. They also work entirely as a fridge too so you can still have an additional ref with a freezer for more spacious kitchens. 

How much does a commercial refrigerator weigh?

Commercial refrigerators come in two to three doors and their average weight is pegged to under 300lbs. However, with the wave of new commercial refrigerator models from different brands, you can have one which closes in to just 220lbs at most.

Nonetheless, when it comes to the weight range of commercial refrigerators, you can expect a range in between 250-350lbs. 

How much do refrigerator doors weigh?

With what we have covered, it is valid to ask about the weight of refrigerator doors especially when you are planning to move out or upgrade your refrigerator at home.

At an average, refrigerator doors weigh 35lbs each, in reference to those two-door and more refrigerators.

The more compact ones including the under counter fridge would have an average door weight of 20lbs and less. Commercial refrigerators would have at least 35-60lbs of door weight. 

How much does a refrigerator weigh without doors?

Given the average weights that we have just covered here, computing the refrigerator’s weight would mean subtracting at least 35-60lbs from their total weight.

For you to have a comprehensive guide of what average weight a ref would have without doors, click this list featuring the most popular ref brands, their type and their average weight for your reference. 

How much does an empty refrigerator weigh?

There is no definite figure as to this but it is said that it should be below 300lbs and should be close to 220lbs depending on the type, size, and model of the refrigerator. Side-by-side and French door refrigerators are exceptions because they would still have a weight of close to 300-350lbs at best. 

How much does the top of fridge weigh? 

Of course, this is only applicable to those ref models with a top fridge. At an average, the top of the fridge would weigh 60lbs. Aside from this, it could also accommodate other small appliances like microwaves and small plant vases for added aesthetics.

Nonetheless, if you can, it would be more ideal to leave the top of the fridge empty to allow the heat to escape from the fridge and for it to maintain its top performance. 

Factors impacting refrigerator weight

With the range of models and types of refrigerators, it is essential that we know the various factors impacting refrigerator weight.

This is essential if you are shopping for a new refrigerator or in remodeling your kitchen. They are as basic as they come but you still need to be aware of what these factors might be. 

Manufacture year

You have to know that older refrigerator models are generally heavier compared to current ones. The reason for this is that they have heavier repulsion tanks and more complicated electrical systems. On average, older ref models weigh at 250lbs and above. 

More modern refrigerator models now feature lighter materials. They also feature removable features for easy replacement. These models have a weight range of 170-350lbs. 

Refrigerator model

Different ref models typically have different weights. As we have covered in the list, French door refs and side-by-side ref models are some of the heaviest ref types. As such, one could also expect that ref models of these types are heavier than the others. 

Fridge size

Logically, refrigerators that are taller are also heavier than those that are 10ft and below. As such, the height of the ref is also a crucial choice if you are keen on the weight of the refrigerator.

The reason behind this is that it is understood that taller refs have more added features compared to the more compact ones. 

Fridge features

The extras that come with some refrigerator brands and models also add weight to the appliance. For example, those with added water tanks or ice makers and dispensers are generally heavier than those without.

Now that you know this, you have to consider ref models using lightweight materials through and through so that you can still enjoy its extra features without worrying about the weight. 

Moving a refrigerator tips

Since the ref is a bulky appliance, there is no less painstaking way to move it. Nonetheless, if you know what to do, you would not have problems with scratched floors, tedious moving tasks and more. As is the case, here are some refrigerator moving tips for you. 

1. Defrost and clean the unit

The first thing to do is to prepare the ref thoroughly. Empty the contents and discard those that need to be discarded. Prepare large coolers for the perishables since cleaning and defrosting take time. 

After it has been emptied, clean the surfaces with dishwashing liquid or baking soda. Melt all remaining ice in the freezer and dry it up immediately using a hair dryer. This is to prevent accidental leaks when you move the ref. 

2. Disconnect the fridge

If you have a ref model with a water tank and ice maker, make sure that these are the first things that you have to disconnect.

To carry on with this task, you have to check the user manual. After everything is disconnected and the cord tied up, remove the doors next if necessary. Keep all the small parts and the screws in a zip lock. 

Also, remove all the glass shelves and drawers. When moving, wrap them in moving blankets or in cushioned boxes for safe transport. Simply taping them in would not suffice. 

3. Include door measurements in your moving plan

The width of the door is very essential in safely moving your refrigerator out of the house. Thus, take the measurement of the ref’s width and then try if it fits in the door of the home. The last thing you would want is for the ref to be dollying in the door as you move out. 

4. Remove obstructions

Anent to the previous item, you also have to remove obstructions along the way. Moving the refrigerator out needs free space. As such, you have to remove all surrounding furniture as well as door hinges or stair railings if needed. This way, you can easily move out of the refrigerator and into the moving truck. 

5. Strap it on to the dolly

The good thing about most refrigerators is that they are on wheels so all you have to do is slide them out. However, it still needs all the support it needs so you will need to have someone to support it on both sides and then strap it on to the dolly for easy movement.

Never push the dolly onto the back or the ref’s front. Its function is to keep the appliance in place. 

6. Tilt back the refrigerator and move it slowly

Evenly position the ref on the dolly and then tilt it back slowly. Note that the ref should not be tilted at more than 45degrees. Check the terrain before moving.

Get the aid of someone if needed. Take control of the dolly at all times. The trick here is to always take extra precaution going down the steps. 

7. Roll the refrigerator into the moving truck

Using a plank or any stable platform, guide the refrigerator into the moving truck. This saves you time and effort compared to lifting it once and altogether. Never lay the refrigerator on the side. Make sure that it is positioned upright in the moving truck. 

8. Other important notes

There are also other things that you should remember when you finally move into your new home and you have to set up the refrigerator. 

• Do not plug in the refrigerator immediately. Check the user manual. Typically, a 24-72-hour requirement is needed before food items could be packed in. 
• If the ref is not plugged in immediately, keep the doors of the ref open to prevent moisture and odor buildup. You can also put charcoal inside so that odor shall be totally prevented. 
• Always position the refrigerator in an upright position in the moving truck.
• Get a dependable and stable dolly or else, you would be jeopardizing your appliances. 
• You cannot move the refrigerator alone. Always get additional people to move it with you. 

FAQs

Aside from the essential information and comparison of weight for refrigerators here, you also have to know some important information pertaining to moving refrigerators. Hence, here are some FAQs which you should be aware of. 

Why is my fridge so heavy?

Aside from the usual reasons which are model, type, and size, there are other reasons as to why your fridge is so heavy. One of these would be its contents.

A wrong arrangement in the items adds to the weight of the fridge, in general. As such, you have to make sure that the right items are stored in their right shelves so as to balance the weight inside it. Also, if there is ice buildup in the fridge, expect a heavier ref. 

What happens if you plug in a fridge after moving it?

We have previously mentioned that you have to check the user manual before plugging it in after moving it. The general rule is that you must not plug it in immediately. The reason behind this is that the oil inside could drip through the compressor. 

Note that the fridge shall inevitably move with the motion of the moving truck. Hence, you should give the oil enough time to settle back where it is supposed to be. The oil is an important component because if it runs out, its motor and piston could seize. 

How long should a fridge be off before moving it?

On average, you have to let the fridge stand for 4hrs before moving it. This way, the same oil that we have previously mentioned should settle. Also, make sure that the fridge is thoroughly dry before moving it to prevent moisture and odor from seeping in. 

How much does a refrigerator compressor weigh?

The answer to this depends on the manufacture year, model and type of your refrigerator. Older models of refrigerators have compressors that are more than 30lbs. Newer models would have compressors that weigh in between 15-20lbs. Of course, the adjacent parts also follow through these weight ranges. 

What is the heaviest refrigerator type?

Of the various types of refrigerators, it is said that the French door refrigerator would be the heaviest of all of them. Its weight ranges from 230-390lbs and its per cubic foot capacity is at 13lbs. The overall average range of French door refrigerators would be at 315lbs. 

How heavy are modern refrigerators? 

We have mentioned more than once that there is a significant difference in the weight between older and modern ref models. On average, modern refrigerators weigh between 200-400lbs.

Of course, this still depends on the type and brand of the ref in question. Nonetheless, expect that the midpoint weight of modern refrigerators would be at 220lbs. 

How do you move a refrigerator without a dolly? 

The most common replacement for a dolly would be furniture sliders. With the help of at least two people and furniture glides to strap on the refrigerator for stability, you could have the same function as that of a dolly.

Just make sure that everything is in place first before tilting the ref and moving it down the stairs and onto the moving truck. 

Can you put a rug under the refrigerator? 

Putting a rug under the refrigerator is a common mistake done by homeowners. Having fabric underneath might cause overheating since it clogs the added cooling unit installed beneath the refrigerator unit. When the cooling unit becomes heated, it might end up burning the rug once it is overheated. 

There is however, an exception when it comes to mini fridges. This type of refrigerator can survive even in heavily carpeted floorings. However, the drawback is that it might not perform as expected. 

Are refrigerator compressors recyclable? 

Not really. But they are gold standards in junkyards because of their scrap metal value. They contain copper so scrapyards really glow up when they see old and junked refrigerators in the bin. Scrapping for the copper is quite hazardous, however, since it contains harmful oils. 

Is it bad to sleep in the same room as the fridge? 

Well, we already have mini fridges that would settle the myth that it is bad to sleep in the same room as the fridge.

There is no scientific evidence that would affirm that fridges emit a lot of EMF radiation that can cause diseases. Hence, it is not forbidden to sleep in the same room as your fridge. 

Why does my fridge smell like nail polish? 

Once your fridge begins to smell like nail polish, you have to be worried because this means that the freon in it is leaking and it is the freon chemicals which you are smelling.

This is extra harmful since some of the leak could come in contact with the food items in your fridge. If you do not know how to troubleshoot this, consult a professional immediately. 

Why does my refrigerator with an ice maker smell like fish? 

When your refrigerator with a built-in ice maker smells fishy, the reason might be because it only has a single evaporator, which, by the way, is the common build.

This means that there is only one airflow which moves from each compartment in the ref so it carries the strongest odors in the ref with it. 

Related:

• 8 Reasons for GE Refrigerator Not Cooling and {How To Fix}
• 10 Reasons For Whirlpool Refrigerator Not Cooling and {How To Fix}
• 5 Reasons for Samsung Refrigerator Ice Maker Not Working (How To Fix)
• How Many Watts and Amps Does A Refrigerator Use?
• Why Is My Refrigerator Leaking Water? (Here’s How To Fix)

Conclusion

When it comes to refrigerators, weight is a crucial business to consider. The weight of refs determines their size, height and type to say the very least. The different weights that they have also determine their capacity.

There are a handful of factors which affect the average weight of refrigerators. As such, when choosing one or in moving one, you definitely have to take the ref’s weight into consideration. 

Now that we have narrowed down refrigerator weights when it comes to type, it would be easier for you to make the right refrigerator choice.