How to choose a narrow refrigerator: tips for buyers + 10 best models on the market

Not all apartment owners can boast of a spacious kitchen. In old buildings, more than 6 meters of area is rarely allocated for kitchen premises.The problem is relevant both in Russia and in many European countries: it is not easy to fit even the most important household appliances into small rooms.

The issue can be solved using non-standard sized appliances, for example, by installing a narrow refrigerator in the kitchen. We will tell you how to choose a refrigeration machine that can easily fit into a small space. The article we present provides a rating of the best models and provides useful recommendations.

The main differences between compact equipment

The width of standard refrigeration units is approximately 65 cm. Side-by-side models with hinged doors and low-rise, but rather deep Asian appliances, are even larger in size. It is unlikely that any of these options will fit into a cramped interior without compromising the overall space.

Another thing is “thin” refrigerators, designed specifically for the needs of miniature rooms. Their width does not exceed 45-55 cm.

The difference between them and their full-sized counterparts is significant, since often even 5 extra centimeters creates inconvenience during installation where literally every millimeter matters. No manufacturer has yet been able to implement more modest sizes.

A decrease in one parameter is mainly achieved by increasing another, so the range of narrow models is usually high. Their product height can range from 1.50 to 1.85 m.

Experts say that it makes no sense to develop refrigerator models less than 40 cm wide. The fact that there will be a demand for equipment that can hardly fit a pan of borscht raises serious doubts

The height of some models is lower due to the lack of a freezer, which can be placed separately. Ergonomic equipment produced by famous world brands is endowed with many advantages.

High quality build. The equipment is equipped with reliable compressor motors that are resistant to sudden surges in network voltage and excessive loads, which guarantees a long service life. Failures occur rarely and are largely associated with violation of operating conditions.

Extensive product range. As a rule, such refrigerators are presented in a variety of configurations that maximize their capacity.

The internal structure is carefully thought out: in chambers with a reduced width, compartments are made with a non-standard arrangement that can accommodate a variety of products.

Convenient control. The equipment is equipped with a clear mechanical system or an electronic unit with a touch screen, through which the cooling modes can be easily adjusted.

Safety. During the production process, proven materials and coatings are used that do not emit hazardous compounds. In some modifications, a layer of antibacterial composition is applied. It prevents the spread of germs that enter the chamber along with food.

Contrary to all concerns, the compact dimensions have virtually no impact on the functionality and capacity of the devices: the indicators are quite enough for the average family of 3-4 people.

Depending on the specific modification, the volume of the freezer compartment in narrow household appliances reaches 100 l, the refrigerator compartment - 250 l

Plus, the units are distinguished by an elegant style that harmoniously complements the decor not only in tiny kitchens, but also in any other room where interesting design concepts are planned to be implemented.

Criteria for selecting narrow units

When going to buy a refrigerator, you need to analyze in advance the main criteria that will help you understand which model is suitable in a particular case. This approach will greatly facilitate further selection.

The optimal loading volume of the refrigeration unit is calculated based on the total number of household members and possible guests on holidays and special circumstances. Amendments are made taking into account the dimensions that can fit in a particular kitchen

In addition to the dimensions, including the width, height and depth of the product, it is worth paying attention to a number of nuances: the location of the cameras; type of control unit; defrosting system; compressor type; functionality; noise level.

Number and location of cameras

Different models of narrow refrigerators may have one or two chambers.The first option is equipped with one door, opening which the user gains access to the freezer and refrigerator compartment simultaneously. In such solutions, the freezer is located on top: it has a small volume and is not divided into functional zones.

In two-chamber modifications, called “combi”, each chamber is equipped with its own door. The freezer compartment is larger, so it is well suited for long-term freezing of food. It consists of several drawers with a pull-out design located at the bottom.

The assortment includes convenient multi-chamber solutions with 3-4 doors and additional compartments designed for specific needs: dry freezing of seasonal berries, fruits and vegetables, storage of drinks, etc.

Refrigerator control methods

The control method in compact refrigeration units can be traditional mechanical or modern electronic. Both types have their own advantages and disadvantages. The mechanical control is simple and familiar: there are few settings and all of them are adjusted using a conventional control lever.

The electronic unit assumes a touch display that supports many functions that can be activated with one touch. The only disadvantage of such a system is its dependence on the stability of voltage indicators. Power surges often cause breakdowns of expensive electronic boards.

In principle, this problem can be prevented by installing a stabilizer that smoothes out sudden jumps.

Cooling options

Manufacturers offer two options for the cooling produced by refrigeration units. The first provides drip system. During work, condensation inevitably forms on the internal walls.During operation, frost and snow cover appear on the back wall of the refrigerator.

When frozen pieces of ice reach a certain thickness (no more than 6-8 mm), the motor stops and they melt. The droplets that appear flow down the surface to the compressor, fall into a special tank and evaporate. Because of this feature, models with a drip system are called “crying” refrigerators.

It should be taken into account that the freezer compartment in them is periodically defrosted manually with the equipment temporarily disconnected from the network.

The second option is units with advanced technology No Frost. Their advantages are obvious: the system operates automatically without frost formation. By creating a dry internal microclimate, the products retain their original benefits and value without losing vitamins.

The air in the chambers of No Frost models is distributed evenly, which guarantees uniform, high-quality freezing without frost.

Some products with a built-in No Frost system are produced with a zero zone, where optimal humidity is maintained - up to 90%. Products stored in this compartment remain fresh for a long time

Type of compressor used

It is recommended to approach the selection of the main part of any refrigerator with special responsibility. We are talking about the compressor presented in ordinary And inverter option.

The first version of the mechanism has been used in the production of refrigeration equipment for many years. It works on an on/off principle.

When a difference is detected between the set and actual temperature in the chamber, the device turns on and quickly reaches the desired cooling mode, using maximum power. Compressors inverter refrigerators function smoothly, constantly maintaining the temperature at the appropriate level.

Inverter compressors are more economical than standard devices in terms of energy consumption. However, there are also nuances, which include a higher level of vibration, price, sensitivity to voltage changes

The power indicators of such compressors can change smoothly with a gradual decrease or increase in speed. The internal temperature in the chambers of models with this type of compressor is always stable.

Special functions and noise

Checking the capabilities of a narrow refrigerator is a must-do item when choosing equipment.

Comfortable everyday use is ensured by the following innovations:

• sound and light alarms;
• autonomous maintenance of a certain temperature regime in cases of power failure;
• mode of fast freezing and cooling of products - “Super freezing”, “Super cooling”;
• option to reduce electricity consumption - “Vacation”;
• regulation of the humidity level in the freshness zone.

The normal noise level of the equipment should not exceed 53 dB. Each modification has an individual indicator. It depends on the complexity of the design, technical capabilities and set of functions. The more complex the model, the noisier it behaves in operation.

Eg, refrigerators No Frost equipped with a fan that creates additional noise. Their average operating hum parameters are 44-47 dB.

Equipment with a different system operates noticeably quieter - in the range of 34-42 dB. Moreover, the difference of several points does not matter, but it affects the price category.

To understand the noise level, you can take into account several values: the noise created by leaves in windy weather is about 25 dB, a standard wall clock is 30 dB, loud conversation is 50 dB

TOP 10 best models on the market

Having dealt with the leading criteria, it’s time to start choosing the best model from a specific brand. Despite advertising gimmicks in the form of profitable promotions and offers from unknown companies, experts advise considering only proven brands.

Companies that have established themselves in the household appliances market in a positive way guarantee the quality of their products and decent service.

Model #1 - NORD 507-012

The production of refrigerators is included in the main specialization brand Nord. Their distinctive features are good assembly, stylish design, decent functionality and relatively affordable prices. NORD 507-012 is one of the most convenient models in the company’s class of narrow single-chamber refrigerators. Its dimensions are optimal for small spaces.

The device operates with harmless refrigerant R600a (isobutane). Thanks to convenient controls, the temperature in the refrigerator compartment is set with an accuracy of two degrees.

With a modest height of 86 cm and a sufficient depth of 53 cm, the width is only 50 cm. In order to save space, the smallest details have been thought out, including ergonomic handles recessed into the body.

Its capacity is 111 liters, which is entirely accounted for by the refrigerator compartment. The main chamber has drawers for vegetables and several height-adjustable shelves made of glass. This chamber is defrosted using a drip system.

This refrigerator has enough space for basic products, small packages of fruit or containers of ready-made food.There is also a niche on the door for bottles, preserves, and an egg mold.

Model #2 – Samsung RT-22HAR4DSA

Samsung is a common and recognizable brand of refrigerators throughout Europe. During its presence on the Russian market, the company managed to win the trust of millions of consumers. Excellent quality is proof of this. Samsung refrigerators, productive technical solutions, convenience and unrivaled style of Korean household appliances.

Samsung RT-22 HAR4DSA is the most “slender” representative of the company’s model range. This is not only the narrowest, but also the flattest option. The model is made of absolutely safe materials. They do not contain harmful compounds that have a detrimental effect on the ozone layer. This is confirmed by an international sign.

The minimum dimensions allow you to install this refrigerator in very small rooms up to 4 square meters. m. Baby's height – 154,5 cm, depth - 63.7 cm, and width only 55.5 cm. It can easily be placed next to compact sinks and stoves.

The refrigerator has a set of standard functions necessary for storing food. Total useful volume of the device – 234 l, of which 181 l allocated for the refrigeration compartment.

The design provides four durable glass shelves, three door niches, and an egg stand. Instead of the usual two boxes for vegetables and fruits, this product has one - Big Box.

The unit is equipped with clear electromechanical control. Among the features it is worth highlighting the work on the system No Frost, which prevents the formation of frost on the walls. Which also provides long-term preservation of product freshness.

Model #3 – Samsung RT-25HAR4DWW

Another narrow representative of the brand is Samsung RT-25HAR4DWW.It is incredibly popular among buyers due to its combination of optimal technical parameters at an affordable price. This is a two-chamber beauty with a width of 55.5 cm. At the same time, its depth and height are 67.4 and 169.8 cm respectively.

Overall volume - 255 l, of which 202 l are provided for the cooling chamber and only 53 l for the freezer. The refrigerator model uses advanced technology No Frost, making regular maintenance much easier for users.

Thanks to this system, ice does not form inside the chambers, so manual defrosting is not required. The main difference between the model is the upper location of the freezer compartment. Many users see this as pros and cons at the same time. Some owners find this solution more convenient.

But opponents note extreme discomfort when using the bottom shelf of the refrigerator. Tall owners of the Samsung RT-25HAR4DWW speak especially negatively about this design.

Also, many buyers are pleased with the presence of a display and an electronic type of control, which allows them to more accurately set the desired temperature values ​​in each of the chambers.

Model #4 – Gorenje RK 4171 ANW2

A large Slovenian company, which began its work with the production of agricultural equipment, has been producing technically advanced models of household appliances for more than 50 years. Innovative technology and elegant design Gorenje refrigerators exceed all expectations of demanding users.

One of the most convenient and memorable modifications in the company’s line of narrow refrigerators is Gorenje RK 4171 ANW2. This is a godsend for lovers of compact and inexpensive solutions. The dimensions of the model are slightly larger than the previous versions (WxDxH):55x58x176 cm. However, it is considered quite compact and suitable for small kitchens.

The refrigerator has a decent volume for its segment: the refrigerator can accommodate 205 l, freezer – 68 l. The main compartment is divided into practical functional areas - durable shelves that can support up to 10 kg of weight, two containers for vegetables, door niches, and a bottle compartment.

The freezer located below does an excellent job of freezing up to 3 kg of food per day. It consists of trays that allow you to sort different types of products at your discretion.

Users note relatively quiet operation (up to 42 dB), efficiency, soft and eye-friendly interior lighting, and the option of intensive cooling of a large amount of food in a minimum time.

The model has a drip system, and the freezer requires manual defrosting as ice forms inside - this is on average 2-3 times a year.

Model #5 - Liebherr CU3311

The German concern develops high-quality and very easy-to-use refrigeration machines that meet all norms and standards. Liebherr refrigerators They clearly do not stand out for their design delights, but they are always one step ahead of competitors in terms of quality, stable and trouble-free operation for a long time.

The brand offers a simple and profitable budget solution in its range of narrow equipment - Liebherr CU3311.

Two-chamber unit in height 181,2 cm and depth 62,9 cm occupies 55 cm of space in width. The manufacturer has equipped it with mechanical controls that are intuitive. The capacity of compact German equipment is practically no different from its full-sized counterparts: the freezer compartment occupies 84 liters, the refrigeration compartment – ​​210 liters.

The device defrosts automatically, the freezer defrosts manually. Since the technology is built into the model Smart Frost, then there is usually no need to defrost it more than once a year.

In case of sudden power outages, the device remains cold for up to 27 hours, which prevents rapid spoilage of frozen foods.

Model #6 - Atlant X2401-100

In addition to these manufacturers, the Belarusian brand Atlant should be noted. Its product range includes a separate series with a narrow type of Compact refrigeration equipment. The models presented in it have good characteristics and excellent external design. One of the most popular among buyers is Atlant X 2401-100.

This is a single-chamber refrigerator with a width of only 55 cm. At the same time, its depth is 58 cm and height is 85 cm, which is quite enough to store the most necessary set of products.

The internal space of a single chamber with a total volume 120 l well thought out - 15 l allocated for a freezer in which you can place boxes of ice cream, dumplings or frozen cutlets.

The refrigerator compartment is divided into convenient zones by glass shelves, and the door has sections for placing various products - eggs, bottled milk or kefir, juice packages. The refrigerator uses a drip system, which indicates the need to defrost once or twice a year.

The unit's light weight of 26 kg and compact dimensions allow it to be transported independently from the store or, if necessary, transported to the countryside.

Model #7 — Atlant ХМ4724-101

Another of the best-selling two-chamber refrigerators of the Belarusian brand is Atlant XM4724-101.Its dimensions allow it to fit compactly even in a modest kitchen, taking up a minimum of usable space - WxDxH are respectively 56×62.5×192.9 cm.

Due to its height, the refrigerator turned out to be quite spacious, which undoubtedly attracts buyers. So, the useful volume is 334 l, of which 233 l are allocated for the refrigeration section and 101 l for the freezer. The unit requires periodic defrosting manually, because it uses a drip system.

Inside there are strong glass shelves, the arrangement of which can be adjusted according to your needs.

The freezer compartment is located at the bottom of the structure. Its volume allows you to prepare homemade berries and vegetables for the winter, placing the products in individual bags and placing them in different boxes.

Model #8 - BEKO RCNK270K20S

The owner of the BEKO trademark is the Turkish holding Koç Holding. The manufacturer supplies its, European and our markets with spacious and functional refrigerators at an affordable price.

The lineup Beko refrigerators allows you to choose a narrow and at the same time roomy option if desired. A prominent representative is BEKO RCNK270K20S. Moreover, the refrigeration unit will use electricity economically, because has class A energy efficiency.

Its width is only 54 cm, depth 60, and the height 171 cm. Such dimensions provide decent capacity, which for two cameras is 270 l.

Among the advantages noted by users, the system No Frost, as well as the presence of an antibacterial coating, which is more than pleasant when the unit costs up to 20 thousand rubles.As the owners state, all the stated parameters are quite true, and the refrigerator makes virtually no noise during operation.

Among the shortcomings, users of this model point out the lack of a freshness zone.

Model #9 - BEKO CNMV5335EA0W

Another narrow representative of the Turkish manufacturer, which is in great demand among buyers, is BEKO CNMV5335EA0W. This is a spacious two-chamber equipment with a volume of 300 l, 100 of which are intended for the freezer located in the lower part of the structure. Its capacity allows you to freeze up to 7 kg of products per day.

The dimensions of this refrigerator (WxDxH) are 54x60x201 cm respectively. The BEKO CNMV5335EA0W model is so popular due to the optimal combination of useful functions with a more than reasonable price.

So, the unit has electronic control, it is equipped with a display, a system No Frost for refrigerator and freezer compartments. It has a sound indication when the door is open, an antibacterial coating and a super-freezing mode for greater operating comfort.

Model #10 – Biryusa 108

The equipment of this brand is still popular! Refrigerators Biryusa are in demand and are popular not only among summer residents. Young families are actively purchasing them. It is the 108 model that consumers call the best against the backdrop of numerous products from “younger” brands.

The last place in the ranking is due to its compact size, which makes the unit as useful as possible in the country. And for an ordinary family of 3-4 people useful volume 115 liters will not be enough.

The parameters of Biryusa 108 (WxDxH) are as follows: 48×60.5×86.5 cm respectively. This is a single compartment model with a small freezer at the top of the refrigerator compartment.Its capacity is 27 liters.

The model provides the ability to change the door, as well as very economical energy consumption, corresponding to class A. Users also really like the almost silent operation of this refrigerator and the electromechanical type of control.

Among the shortcomings, the owners note the need for periodic maintenance - the unit uses a drip system. They also say about such refrigerators that they have a “crying wall”. Therefore, you cannot do without manual defrosting.

Tips for organizing space

Arranging a small kitchen space is not an easy task, and purchasing a narrow compact refrigerator cannot be limited to this matter.

It is important to think through and arrange everything so that in the kitchen it is comfortable to cook, dine with the whole family, sit down for a cup of coffee with guests, and still have room to spread out. That is why it is necessary to properly plan the organization of space in advance.

The first thing you should think about is determining the area for installing the refrigerator. Experts recommend choosing a corner, one of the walls of which goes directly into the work surface, the other is adjacent to the window opening. If this place is already occupied, it is better to place the device near the door.

In order to make the most productive use of every square meter, you need to try not to leave gaps between furniture and household appliances

The last option is relevant for small refrigeration units without a freezer. They are built under the dining table, work surface or any kitchen cabinet.

In this case, the freezer is purchased separately and is also built into the furniture or taken outside the kitchen.In addition to the placement of equipment, it is necessary to pay attention to other nuances.

The kitchen will become more comfortable and spacious if you follow these tips:

1. Install flexible holders and wall-mounted systems for small kitchen utensils and dishes.
2. Buy magnetic baskets for various small items and attach them to household appliances.
3. Buy compact furniture with the maximum number of drawers.
4. Equip additional shelves using every free part of the walls.
5. Attach niches and hooks to the interior walls of furniture doors.
6. For additional storage space, use a cart or a shelf on wheels, which can serve as a work surface or an excellent buffet table.

By approaching the problem wisely, you can easily get out of the situation by creating a unique indoor interior. Everything ingenious is simple: it’s enough to use slightly unconventional ideas and show ingenuity. As a result, every thing will find its place, and the room will not be too overloaded and cluttered.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

How to choose the right refrigerator:

Narrow refrigeration equipment is a real salvation for people who are puzzling over how to ergonomically arrange household appliances and furniture in their already cramped kitchen..

It is important to choose a model that is equipped with all the necessary functions and has enough working space to store food for all family members.

Please leave comments in the block below, post photographs related to the topic of the article, and ask questions about points of interest. Tell us about how you selected a narrow refrigerator for a small kitchen or cottage. Share which model you chose and why.