How much does a refrigerator weigh?

Most refrigerators weigh between 150 and 450 pounds, depending on type and size.

Ever tried moving a fridge and realized halfway up the stairs you’re in trouble? I’ve been there. Whether you’re planning a move or checking if your floor can handle that new French door model, knowing refrigerator weight matters. As one of the essential kitchen appliances in your home, understanding your fridge’s weight is crucial. I’ll break down exact weights by type, brand, and size—plus share the moving tips that actually work.

Let’s start with the basics. The weight of a refrigerator depends heavily on its design, capacity, and features. Here’s what you need to know about each type.

French door models are the heavyweights of the refrigerator world. Most French-door refrigerators weigh between 300 and 450 pounds (136-204 kg).

Why so heavy? These units pack bottom freezer drawers, multiple compartments, and usually feature ice makers and water dispensers. The weight of a French door refrigerator increases significantly with stainless steel exteriors and advanced insulation for energy efficiency.

I recently tested a 25 cu ft Samsung model that clocked in at 395 pounds. That’s before adding food, which can add another 50-100 pounds depending on how well-stocked you keep it.

The weight of a side-by-side refrigerator typically falls between 250 and 400 pounds (113-181 kg). These models split the refrigerator and freezer vertically, which affects weight distribution during moves.

From my experience, the compressor and condenser coils in these units sit at the bottom, making them bottom-heavy. This actually helps with stability but makes them tricky to tilt when navigating tight corners.

Looking for something lighter? The weight of a top freezer refrigerator ranges from 150 to 250 pounds (68-113 kg). These classic designs remain popular in apartments and smaller homes for good reason—they’re easier to move and install.

A standard 18 cu ft top-freezer model weighs around 175-200 pounds. I’ve moved several of these, and with the right moving dolly and one strong helper, it’s definitely manageable.

The weight of a bottom freezer fridge sits in the middle range at 200 to 300 pounds (91-136 kg). These units offer convenient eye-level refrigerator access while keeping frozen items in pull-out drawers below.

Counter-depth models create a sleek, built-in look. The weight of counter-depth fridge units typically ranges from 250 to 350 pounds (113-159 kg), depending on cubic feet capacity.

These are designed to sit flush with your cabinets, which means they’re often narrower but can be deeper front-to-back. This affects how you’ll need to maneuver them during installation.

The weight of a mini fridge varies dramatically by size. Compact refrigerators weigh between 40 and 80 pounds (18-36 kg), while the weight of a mini bar fridge might be as light as 30 pounds.

I keep a mini fridge in my testing kitchen, and at 55 pounds, it’s light enough for one person to move—though you’ll still want to protect your back and use proper lifting technique. These compact units are perfect for dorm rooms, offices, or as supplementary storage alongside your main refrigerator.

Commercial units are in a different league. Commercial refrigerator weight vs residential models shows a massive difference—these beasts can weigh 500 to 1,200+ pounds (227-544+ kg).

I’ve worked with restaurant owners during kitchen renovations, and commercial refrigerators require professional moving services. They’re built with heavier-grade materials and larger compressor units to handle constant use.

Understanding refrigerator weight by cubic feet helps you estimate before checking specific models. Here’s a practical breakdown:

Refrigerator lbs per cubic foot averages around 12-15 pounds for most residential units. So a 20 cu ft refrigerator would weigh approximately 240-300 pounds.

• How heavy is a 18 cu ft refrigerator? Around 200-250 pounds
• How heavy is a 20 cu ft fridge? Typically 250-300 pounds
• How much does a 25 cu ft refrigerator weigh? Usually 350-400 pounds

These are ballpark figures. The actual refrigerator weight spec sheet from the manufacturer gives you precise numbers, including both refrigerator shipping weight and installed weight.

Here’s something most fridge weight comparison charts don’t mention—food adds serious pounds.

An empty refrigerator weighs what’s listed on the product specification sheet. But fill it with groceries, beverages, and condiments? You’re looking at an additional 50-150 pounds depending on capacity and how much you stock.

I weighed my 22 cu ft fridge empty (312 pounds) and fully stocked before a holiday (428 pounds). That’s 116 pounds of food. Keep this in mind when calculating load capacity for trucks or elevator capacity vs fridge weight for apartment moves.

Different manufacturers use varying construction methods. Here’s what refrigerator weight by brand typically looks like:

Samsung tends toward heavier builds with their premium features. Their 28 cu ft French door models often exceed 400 pounds.

LG refrigerators with similar capacity usually weigh 10-20 pounds less due to different insulation materials and compressor designs.

Whirlpool and Maytag stick to mid-range weights, balancing durability with manageability. Their top-freezer models remain some of the lightest full-size options at 150-180 pounds. Check Whirlpool’s refrigerator dimensions guide for detailed specifications on their current models.

GE commercial-style residential units can push 450+ pounds for their largest models with all the bells and whistles.

Frigidaire offers competitively lightweight options, especially in their compact refrigerator weight range.

Bosch built-in refrigerators are premium and heavy—expect 350-500+ pounds for their counter-depth and fully integrated models.

Use the refrigerator model weight lookup feature on manufacturer websites for exact specifications before purchasing.

Understanding weight factors helps explain why modern refrigerators pack so many pounds.

The compressor is your fridge’s engine. This sealed unit weighs 20-40 pounds alone and sits at the bottom of most models. The condenser coils add another 10-15 pounds.

Insulation between the inner and outer walls prevents temperature transfer. Modern energy-efficient models use thick foam insulation that adds considerable weight but saves money on your electric bill.

A stainless steel exterior weighs more than plastic or painted finishes. That gorgeous stainless look? It adds 15-30 pounds compared to basic white models.

Glass shelves are heavier than wire racks but easier to clean and more durable. Each thick glass shelf weighs 5-8 pounds.

Features like ice makers and water dispensers include pumps, water lines, and storage bins that collectively add 20-40 pounds to the refrigerator gross weight.

Moving a refrigerator requires planning. Here’s what I’ve learned from moving dozens of units.

Equipment Checklist

You absolutely need a moving dolly with proper appliance weight capacity. Standard dollies max out around 600 pounds, but check the weight limit for truck ramps fridge if you’re loading into a vehicle.

Appliance straps prevent the fridge from shifting during transport. These are non-negotiable for safety—similar to how you’d carefully handle other heavy kitchen appliances during a move.

Moving blankets protect both the refrigerator finish and your walls, doorframes, and floors.

Remove Refrigerator Doors Weight Reduction

This simple trick makes a huge difference. Remove refrigerator doors weight reduction can cut 30-60 pounds off the total. Most French door models have doors weighing 15-30 pounds each.

I always remove doors when moving through tight spaces. It also reduces the risk of damaging hinges during tricky maneuvers.

Heavy Fridge Safety Tips

Never attempt to move a full-size refrigerator alone. Even apartment size fridge weight requires two people minimum.

Keep the fridge as upright as possible. Tilting beyond 45 degrees can damage the compressor or cause oil to leak into cooling lines.

When using stairs, go slow. One person controls from below while another guides from above. Take breaks every few steps. Whirlpool’s guide on moving heavy appliances offers additional safety techniques for protecting both your appliance and your floors.

Check door clearance measurements before moving day. Measure the fridge with doors removed, then measure every doorway, hallway, and turn you’ll navigate.

Moving Company Refrigerator Weight Requirements

Professional movers use freight elevators when available. Standard residential elevators typically have 1,500-2,500 pound load capacity, so one refrigerator plus movers is usually fine.

Most movers charge based on weight and difficulty. Expect higher rates for heavier models or challenging access (stairs, tight spaces, long carries).

Many offer installation service for $50-150 extra, which includes positioning and leveling. Some include haul-away fees for your old unit—typically $25-75 depending on disposal weight for recycling.

Need to estimate but don’t have a scale for weighing appliances? Here’s my method.

Check the product specification sheet that came with your fridge. It lists the refrigerator shipping weight (usually 5-10 pounds heavier than installed weight due to packaging).

Can’t find paperwork? Search “[brand] [model number] weight” online. Manufacturers publish specs on their websites, like Samsung’s refrigerator specifications or LG’s product details.

For used refrigerators, look inside the door or on the back panel for the model tag. Use that for refrigerator model weight lookup online.

As a rough estimate, multiply cubic feet capacity by 12-15 to get pounds. A 20 cubic foot fridge? Estimate 240-300 pounds.

When ordering online, understanding refrigerator weight for delivery helps set realistic expectations.

Most delivery services handle refrigerator shipping weight up to 400 pounds as standard. Heavier units may require two-person crews and cost extra.

Ask about delivery weight limits for your area. Some services won’t deliver above certain weights without special arrangements.

Deliveries typically include unpacking and placing in your kitchen, but not installation (connecting water lines, adjusting feet for leveling). That’s usually separate.

Shipping pallets protect refrigerators during transit. You’re responsible for pallet disposal unless the delivery service offers removal.

This is crucial for upstairs installations or older homes.

Standard residential floors support 40 pounds per square foot. A 400-pound refrigerator with a footprint of 4 square feet distributes 100 pounds per square foot—well above standard limits.

However, weight distribution across floor joists and the refrigerator’s actual contact points usually makes this safe. The four small feet on most fridges concentrate weight, but joists running perpendicular typically handle it.

For built-in refrigerator weight installations or extra-heavy commercial models, consult a structural engineer if you’re unsure about floor support.

Here’s a fridge weight chart for quick comparisons:

For international readers or when dealing with shipping specs in different units:

Fridge weight conversion pounds to kg is simple: divide pounds by 2.205.

• 200 lbs = 91 kg
• 300 lbs = 136 kg
• 400 lbs = 181 kg

Most manufacturer spec sheets list both refrigerator weight in pounds and refrigerator weight in kg for convenience.

The average fridge weight lbs depends heavily on type and features. Mini fridges start at 40 pounds while commercial units exceed 1,000 pounds.

For typical residential models, expect average weight small fridge (apartment/compact) around 60-100 pounds and average weight large fridge (full-size) between 250-400 pounds.

Always check the manufacturer’s weight specification before moving day. Plan your equipment and helpers accordingly. Remove doors when possible to reduce weight and width.

The average refrigerator weight is approximately 250 pounds for standard full-size models. Mini fridges weigh 40-80 pounds, while large French door models reach 300-450 pounds. Type and capacity are the biggest factors affecting weight.

For refrigerator weight for moving, expect to handle the full shipping weight plus any food inside. A typical 20-22 cu ft fridge weighs 280-320 pounds empty. Add 50-100 pounds if fully stocked. Always remove shelves and doors to reduce weight and make navigating doorways easier.

The weight of a mini fridge ranges from 40-80 pounds, while full size refrigerator weight starts around 150 pounds and goes up to 450+ pounds. That’s a 100-400 pound difference depending on the exact models you’re comparing.

Yes, you need an appliance dolly rated for at least 600 pounds, appliance straps for securing the unit, and moving blankets for protection. For refrigerators over 300 pounds, consider hiring professional movers with proper equipment and insurance.

Check the product specification sheet that came with your appliance, or look for the model number tag inside the fridge door or on the back panel. Search online using your brand and model number for detailed specs including refrigerator shipping weight and net weight.