If you have a small kitchen, a home bar, or an office space, you might want to save some space and add some style by putting a mini fridge under a counter. A mini fridge can keep your food and drinks cold and handy, and fit neatly under your counter without taking up too much floor or wall space. But can you put a mini fridge under a counter? And if so, how do you choose, install, and use one?
The answer is yes, you can put a mini fridge under a counter, but you need to find a suitable model and follow some guidelines. Not all mini fridges are designed to be built-in or undercounter, and not all counters have enough space or power for a mini fridge. You also need to think about how to ventilate, level, and secure your mini fridge under your counter.
In this post, we will explain how to choose a mini fridge for under your counter, how to install it properly and safely, and how to care for it efficiently and effectively.
How to Choose a Mini Fridge for Under Your Counter
There are many types and models of mini fridges on the market, but not all of them are compatible with undercounter installation. When choosing a mini fridge for under your counter, you should consider the following factors:
- Size: The size of the mini fridge is measured in cubic feet (cu. ft.), which indicates how much storage space it has inside. Most undercounter spaces can accommodate a mini fridge that is between 1.5 and 4.5 cu. ft., depending on the available height, width, and depth of the counter. You should also check the dimensions (height, width, and depth) of the mini fridge to make sure it fits in your counter without blocking any doors, drawers, or outlets.
- Power: The power of the mini fridge is measured in watts (W), which indicates how much electricity it consumes. Most undercounter spaces have a limited amount of power available, usually between 500 and 800 W. You should check the wattage of the mini fridge and add it to the wattage of any other appliances or devices you plan to use in your counter to make sure you don’t exceed the limit. You should also look for a mini fridge that has an Energy Star rating, which means it is more energy-efficient and eco-friendly than other models.
- Features: The features of the mini fridge include the design, layout, and functions of the appliance. Some features to look for are:
- A built-in or undercounter design: A built-in or undercounter design is a type of mini fridge that is specially designed to be installed under a counter or in a cabinet. It has a front-venting system that allows it to release heat from the front instead of the back or sides. It also has a flush or recessed back that allows it to fit snugly against the wall without leaving any gaps. A built-in or undercounter design is more suitable for undercounter installation than a freestanding design, which is a type of mini fridge that is designed to stand alone on the floor or on a countertop. A freestanding design has a rear-venting system that requires some clearance around the appliance for air circulation. It also has a protruding back that may not fit well under your counter.
- A reversible door: A reversible door is a type of door that can be opened from either the left or right side. This can be useful if you need to adjust the orientation of the mini fridge according to the layout of your counter or furniture.
- A lock: A lock is a type of mechanism that can be used to secure the door and prevent unauthorized access to your items. This can be helpful if you want to protect your food and drinks from theft or tampering by other people.
- A thermostat: A thermostat is a type of device that allows you to adjust the temperature of the refrigerator according to your preferences and needs. This can help you keep your food and drinks at optimal freshness and quality.
How to Install Your Mini Fridge Under Your Counter
One of the main challenges of putting a mini fridge under your counter is how to install it properly and safely. Your mini fridge may require some modifications or adjustments to fit in your counter and work efficiently.
Therefore, you need to follow these steps to install your mini fridge under your counter:
- Measure your space: You should measure your space before you buy or bring your mini fridge to make sure it fits in your counter. Measure the height, width, and depth of your counter and compare them with the dimensions of your mini fridge. Leave some space around your mini fridge for ventilation and access.
- Prepare your power source: You should prepare your power source before you plug in your mini fridge. Find an outlet near your counter and make sure it has enough capacity to handle the wattage of your mini fridge. Avoid using extension cords or power strips. If you need to use a surge protector, make sure it has enough capacity to handle the wattage of your mini fridge.
- Level your mini fridge: You should level your mini fridge before you slide it into your counter. Use a bubble level or a smartphone app to check if your mini fridge is balanced on all sides. Adjust the feet or legs of your mini fridge if needed. Leveling your mini fridge can help prevent uneven cooling, noise, vibration, and wear and tear on the cooling system.
- Slide your mini fridge into your counter: You should slide your mini fridge into your counter carefully and gently. Avoid scratching or denting the body or door of your mini fridge or the surface of your counter. Align your mini fridge with the opening of your counter and push it in until it is flush with the front edge of your counter. Leave some space behind your mini fridge for the power cord and the venting system.
- Secure your mini fridge: You should secure your mini fridge when it is in place under your counter. Use straps, brackets, bolts, or locks to fasten your mini fridge to the floor or wall of your counter. Close and latch the door of your mini fridge to prevent it from opening accidentally. Secure any loose items from inside or outside of your mini fridge to prevent them from falling or spilling.
How to Care for Your Mini Fridge Under Your Counter
Another challenge of putting a mini fridge under your counter is how to care for it. Your mini fridge may be exposed to different conditions, such as dust, grease, spills, or pests, that can affect its performance and lifespan.
Therefore, you need to follow these tips to care for your mini fridge under your counter:
- Clean your mini fridge regularly: You should clean your mini fridge at least once a month or whenever it gets dirty or smelly. Unplug your mini fridge and remove all the items from inside. Wipe down the interior and exterior surfaces with a damp cloth and mild soap or baking soda. Rinse and dry thoroughly. Clean the shelves, drawers, and door seals with warm water and vinegar or lemon juice. Rinse and dry thoroughly. Reassemble the parts and plug in your mini fridge. Restock your items after they have reached room temperature.
- Check for leaks or damages: You should check for leaks or damages on your mini fridge regularly and fix them as soon as possible. Look for signs of oil or grease leaking from the compressor or tubing, cracks or dents on the body or door, loose or broken hinges or handles, or faulty wiring or connections. If you find any problems, contact the manufacturer or a qualified technician for repair or replacement.
- Ventilate your mini fridge: You should ventilate your mini fridge when using it under your counter. Leave some space around your mini fridge for air circulation and easy access. Avoid placing your mini fridge near heat sources, such as stoves, heaters, or windows. Avoid covering or blocking the vents or fans of your mini fridge with any objects or materials. Ventilating your mini fridge can help prevent overheating, condensation, mold growth, and fire hazards.
- Secure your mini fridge: You should secure your mini fridge when traveling with it in your camper. Use straps, brackets, bolts, or locks to fasten your mini fridge to the floor or wall of your camper. Close and latch the door of your mini fridge to prevent it from opening during transit. Remove any loose items from inside or outside of your mini fridge to prevent them from falling or spilling during transit. Securing your mini fridge can help prevent accidents, injuries, damages, or losses.
