When determining if a refrigerator will fit inside an SUV, there are some things you need to know. First of all, you should never lay a refrigerator on its back because you can crush the intricate parts on the back and cause the appliance to malfunction.
While some SUVs are large enough to carry a refrigerator, this does not mean you should. Below, you will find answers to this question and more information to help you decide if transporting a refrigerator in your SUV is possible or even wise.
Manufacturers Recommend Upright Transport
Manufacturers recommend transporting refrigerators in an upright position because of the compressor. The oil in the compressor can run into the lines and cause damage. That being said, people do lay refrigerators on their sides to move them from one place to another.
Use caution when moving a refrigerator in this way. If you decide to move a refrigerator on its side, make sure to leave it upright for one to two days before turning it on.
Will a Refrigerator Fit Inside an SUV?
Not everyone has a truck available for a move, and it might be tempting to load a refrigerator into the back of your SUV. Surprisingly, you can move a refrigerator in the back of some SUVs, but you will need to move it on its back or side.
What Are the Typical Refrigerator Measurements?
Fridges vary in size considerably. The most common refrigerator measurements are 65 to 70 inches tall, 30 to 36 inches wide, and 32 to 34 inches deep. French and side-by-side refrigerators are typically wider and taller, depending on the model. The following are some common measurements, though these vary among manufacturers.
Bottom Freezer
Bottom freezers are typically 65 to 69 inches tall, 23 to 36 inches wide, and 24 to 33 inches deep.
Top Freezer
If you have a top freezer, you will find its dimensions are 65 to 69 inches tall, 23 to 36 inches wide, and 24 to 33 inches deep.
French Door
French door refrigerators are typically 67 to 70 inches tall, 30 to 36 inches wide, and 29 to 35 inches deep.
Side-by-Side
Side-by-Side refrigerators are typically 67 to 70 inches tall, 30 to 36 inches wide, and 29 to 35 inches deep.
How to Measure a Refrigerator Properly
Measuring a fridge is not overly difficult as long as you know the steps and have the right tools.
What You Will Need:
- Measuring tape
- Someone to help
First, you will want to measure the depth of the refrigerator. It is important to note that the measurements provided by the manufacturer usually do not include the handles. The measurement of the depth is from front to back. Choose one side to measure.
Second, you will need to measure the width of the refrigerator. Place the measuring tape in a straight line along the very bottom edge of the refrigerator.
Thirdly, you should measure the height of the refrigerator. When measuring, make sure to add an inch or so to your total height to allow for hinge room, depending on your refrigerator style and model.
How to Measure Your SUV For Fit
Once you have determined the dimensions of your refrigerator, it is time to check those of the cargo space in your SUV.
When purchasing an SUV or any vehicle, manufacturers will list the cargo space in cubic feet. You will be given one measurement with the seats down and one with them up. SUV owners often become confused about cubic feet.
Cubic feet is a measurement of volume, but this measurement does not help you when you need to know the dimensions of width, height, and depth.
For instance, the 2019 Jeep Cherokee has around 55 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats in the down position. Without carrying out measurements, you can determine this is equal to a 6-foot by 4 1/2-foot garden shed.
Cubic Feet = Length X Width X Height
Take these measurements, and then compare them to the dimensions of your refrigerator to determine if it will fit.
Tips for Moving a Refrigerator in an SUV
Loading and transporting a refrigerator in an SUV is not as difficult as it might seem, but there are some tips that will make it easier.
- Get a friend to help because some refrigerators can weigh as much as 450 pounds or more.
- Wrap the refrigerator in blankets to prevent scratches and scuffs.
- Read your owner’s manual to ensure you can transport the refrigerator on its side or back.
- Use straps to secure the refrigerator in the back of your SUV to prevent damages.
- Drive carefully to prevent the refrigerator from moving around and causing damage to your SUV.
Let the Refrigerator Settle Overnight Before Plugging It In
Depending on your refrigerator model, you are taking a risk by laying it on its side or back. If you have no other choice but to transport the appliance this way, make sure you set it upright as soon as you get to your destination.
Leave the refrigerator unplugged for at least 24 hours before plugging it in and turning the refrigerator on for use. Leaving the refrigerator to settle will allow any oil or coolant to go back to the correct areas.