Side by Side

Side by side fridges are a popular choice for households that need plenty of storage space and easy access to both fresh and frozen foods. With a vertical split design and narrow door swing, they’re ideal for kitchens where space is limited but organisation is essential. Below, you can find some considerations to help you decide whether a side by side fridge is the right fit for your home, or if other models such as a French door, pigeon pair or top mount model the right solution for you.

FAQs

1. What are the main benefits of choosing a side by side fridge?

The side by side fridge configuration offers several practical advantages to other traditional style fridges. One major benefit is the narrow door swing. Unlike a standard single-door fridge or a French door fridge which requires significant space for the doors to open fully, the side by side fridge doors are half the width, making them an excellent choice for galleys or smaller kitchens where space is tight. Secondly, the vertical split provides excellent organisation; both the fridge and freezer contents are visible and accessible at eye and waist level, meaning less bending down compared to bottom-mount freezers. Finally, many high-end side by side fridge models come equipped with convenient features like plumbed or non-plumbed ice and water dispensers, adding a layer of functionality and comfort to your daily life.

2. Do side by side fridges have more space than regular fridges?

In most cases, yes. side by side fridges are typically designed as larger, family-sized appliances and offer significantly more total capacity than traditional top mount fridges or standard single door models. Because these units are physically wider, they generally provide a much higher litre count, giving you plenty of room to stock up on weekly groceries. If you are upgrading from a standard top mount unit, you will notice a substantial increase in storage volume for both fresh food and frozen items, making them an excellent choice for growing households that constantly find their current fridge overflowing.

3. How do I choose the best side by side fridge for my kitchen?

Selecting the ideal side by side fridge involves considering several key factors to ensure it fits both your space and your lifestyle. Firstly, measure your kitchen's cavity precisely, paying close attention to height, width, and depth, as well as considering clearance for door openings. Secondly, think about capacity. A larger household will need a greater total litre volume. Next, consider if you want an in-door water and ice dispenser? This is a common feature on many side by side fridge models and can be a huge convenience. Finally, look at the energy rating and finish to match your kitchen aesthetics. Finding a side by side fridge that balances space efficiency, features, and design is key to a happy kitchen. For more guidance on choosing the right fridge, check out our buying guide with expert tips to help you compare models.

4. Is a side by side fridge the same as a pigeon pair?

No, a side by side fridge is not the same as a pigeon pair, though they look similar from a distance and achieve a similar functional split. A side by side fridge is a single, integrated appliance with a fridge and freezer section built into one unit and powered by a single compressor. A pigeon pair, on the other hand, consists of two separate, full-height vertical appliances: a dedicated, standalone upright fridge and a dedicated, standalone upright freezer. These two units are purchased separately and placed next to each other to give the appearance of a single, large side by side fridge. Pigeon pairs offer significantly more total capacity than a typical single unit, as each appliance is fully dedicated to chilling or freezing, providing a maximum amount of storage for a large side by side fridge look.