How big can a mini fridge be in a dorm?

3.3 cubic feet—we consider this the ideal size for most dorm mini fridges. You can find fridges in this size with freezers or not and either should provide enough room for two people. 4+ cubic feet—lucky you if your dorm allows for a fridge this large!

How big should a dorm mini fridge be?

However, a mini fridge with about 3.3 cubic feet of storage space tends to be the most popular choice among dorm dwellers, says Jason Carter, a professional appliance repairman from Oregon. “This size provides enough space for keeping drinks, snacks, sandwiches, and some small food items,” says Carter.

Can you have a mini fridge in your dorm room?

Mini fridges are a dorm room staple. They help students keep snacks and drinks (or beauty products like moisturizers and eye masks) cool, but they aren't typically considered dorm decor. At best, they're overlooked when determining the aesthetic of a space — a necessary but blah appliance that kind of just blends in.

Is a mini fridge worth it in college?

However, mini fridges are a great appliance to have in a dorm room or an apartment because of the individual storage it provides you away from a shared fridge. We consider it to be essential for college students to have, there's just no reason to ship it or try to move it with you.

How much space does a mini fridge need?

Mini fridges are a great solution when you either have very limited space or need somewhere to store excess items. The specific size of mini refrigerator that you need will depend on what you plan to use it for, but most often range from 30 to 35 inches in height, 18 to 24 inches in width, and 19 to 26 inches in depth.

Top 4 Mini Fridges in 2024👌

How big are dorm refrigerators?

2.5-2.6 cubic feet—this is a nice mid-size model that allows for a freezer compartment option or not. This size fridge would provide enough room for one person, but you might be a bit cramped with two. 3.3 cubic feet—we consider this the ideal size for most dorm mini fridges.

Can a mini fridge fit under a dorm bed?

Yes. A small dorm sized refrigerator will work in almost every room. A large one might take up too much space, but that depends on the size of the room you're in.

Where to put mini fridge in dorm?

Should I rent or buy a mini fridge for college?

Bottom line: it is REALLY difficult to plan out your living situation for the next four years with any sort of certainty. Purchasing a mini fridge will limit your options and may result in wasted money. However, Renting will allow you much more flexibility for whatever situation you find yourself in the future.

Does a mini fridge waste a lot of electricity?

Typically, a mini fridge consumes around 25kWh per month. But, if you don't take care of energy-saving tips like keeping the door properly closed or they have in your kitchen, it can take a huge chunk of your electricity bill.

Is it safe to put a mini fridge against a wall?

Side Clearance – Plan for between one-half inch to one inch of clearance on both sides of the unit. Rear Clearance – Allow between one to two inches of space at the rear of the refrigerator for proper airflow. Top Clearance – Ensure there is a minimum of one-half inch to one inch of clearance on top of the unit.

How much ventilation does a mini fridge need?

It is recommended that a ventilation path of at least 200cm2 is provided to flow over the rear of the unit (for example, a 5cm deep channel across the entire width of the fridge would be suitable).

What should a mini fridge sit on?

Plastic drip tray is made to protect flooring, carpet, and furniture when using a mini refrigerator. The tray sits underneath the feet of the refrigerator catching moisture. Moisture can come from condensation, spills or leaks inside the refrigerator. This is our most popular size.

How do I maximize space in my mini fridge?

What are the disadvantages of small fridge?

Space Limitations

Mini fridges are designed to be compact, which means they don't have much space for food or beverages. If you have a large number of items you want to store in your fridge, you may quickly run out of space.

Why are microwaves not allowed in dorms?

Microwaves are often banned in dorms due to fire safety concerns and limited electrical capacity. They can also increase the risk of foodborne illnesses from improper use.

Is it important to have a fridge in your dorm?

Unless your diet consists of all packaged foods, you'll need a little fridge to store your perishable food and drinks.

Is it safe to have a mini fridge on carpet?

No, not very safe. You need a hard surface and ample clearance for proper cooling. Even then the hot components can ruin carpet as can moisture generated by the fridge.

Do mini fridges have to be on the floor?

Plus, because they're so small, mini fridges can sometimes fit on a countertop instead of the floor, as long as there's enough clearance for ventilation. Mini fridges vary in capacity from about 1.7 to 4.5 cubic feet, so it's likely you'll find one that fits your specific needs.

Can you lay a dorm fridge on its back?

The answer is no. A refrigerator should never be transported on its back; the weight of the fridge can damage internal parts, and the internal fluids such as the oil inside the motor; or the refrigerant may shift and settle in undesirable places in the machine's system.

Are mini fridges noisy?

The smaller mini coolers will make a small amount noise due to the fan on the back, and is not recommended to be placed near a bedside if you are a light sleeper.

What is a dormitory style refrigerator?

A dormitory-style refrigerator is defined as a small combination refrigerator/freezer unit that is outfitted with one exterior door and an evaporator plate (cooling coil), which is usually located inside an icemaker compartment (freezer) within the refrigerator.

What size fridge is in the dorm room at UW Madison?

University Housing provides

University Residence Halls provide furniture which can be “lofted” or stacked to create more floor space. Compact refrigerator (size varies from 2.4–3.1 cubic ft.)

How much power does a dorm fridge need?

In general, A mini refrigerator uses between 70-90 watts and 280-360 starting watts; An average household refrigerator uses between 90-180 watts and 360-720 starting watts; A side-by-side refrigerator uses 180-200 watts and 720-800 starting watts.

Can you leave a mini fridge on all night?

It is OK to run all the time. The only time you would unplug is to defrost the freezer for cleaning.