Imagine opening your refrigerator door. Is it a treasure trove of fresh food, or a chaotic jumble of forgotten leftovers? For many of us, the refrigerator is the heart of the kitchen. But when it comes time to pick a new one, especially a 36-inch model, it can feel like a huge puzzle. So many brands, so many features – it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure where to begin.
Choosing the right 36-inch refrigerator is a big decision. You want one that fits your space perfectly, keeps your food fresh, and works with your family’s needs. But with so many choices, it’s tough to know which one is best. You might worry about energy use, how much food it holds, or if it will even fit through your doorway! We get it, and that’s why we’re here to help.
In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about 36-inch refrigerators. We’ll look at different styles, helpful features, and what to consider before you buy. By the end, you’ll feel confident in choosing a refrigerator that you’ll love for years to come. Let’s dive in and make your kitchen dreams a reality!
Our Top 5 36 Refrigerator Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 36 Refrigerator Detailed Reviews
1. Kenmore 36″ French Door Refrigerator with Freezer – Accela Chill
Rating: 8.9/10
The Kenmore 36″ French Door Refrigerator with Freezer offers a stylish and smart way to keep your food fresh. Its sleek stainless steel finish looks great in any kitchen, and it’s designed to fit perfectly with your cabinets for a built-in look. This fridge is packed with features to make storing and cooling your food easy and efficient.
What We Like:
- It has a 20.3 cu. ft. space that fits well in your kitchen.
- The Accela Chill feature cools your groceries super fast.
- You can organize everything easily with adjustable shelves and special drawers.
- The fingerprint-resistant finish means less wiping and more shine.
- It’s ENERGY STAR certified, so it saves energy and money.
- The bright LED lights make it easy to find things.
- The icemaker makes plenty of ice every day.
- The Even Cooling System keeps all your food at the right temperature.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 20.3 cu. ft. capacity might be a bit small for very large families.
- Some users might prefer more advanced smart features.
This Kenmore refrigerator is a fantastic choice for those who want a modern, efficient, and well-organized kitchen. It balances great features with energy savings, making it a smart addition to your home.
2. Forno Salerno 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator and Freezer with 20 Cubic Ft.- Stainless Steel French Door Built-In Ice Maker Fridge
Rating: 9.5/10
The Forno Salerno 36″ Side-by-Side Refrigerator and Freezer offers a spacious and modern solution for your kitchen. Its sleek stainless steel French door design and built-in ice maker make it a stylish and functional addition, perfect for keeping your groceries fresh and organized.
What We Like:
- Generous 20 cubic feet of total storage space, with 13.48 cubic feet for fresh food and 6.53 cubic feet for frozen goods.
- The fresh food zone features adjustable glass shelves, a gallon bin, and crisper drawers for easy organization.
- A multi-air flow cooling system ensures consistent temperatures throughout the refrigerator.
- The freezer includes two convenient storage drawers and two side-door shelves.
- A soft alert sound notifies you if the freezer door is left open.
- The unit boasts an Intelligence chip temperature control and digital display for precise adjustments.
- Special modes like Child Lock, Vacation Mode, and Sabbath Mode add versatility and peace of mind.
- Interior LED lighting illuminates the entire refrigerator for better visibility.
- It includes a built-in ice maker that can produce both solid and crushed ice.
- The E-star energy rating helps save on electricity bills.
What Could Be Improved:
- The side cabinet is dark grey, which might not match all kitchen color schemes.
- The air duct cover and glass shelves trim are white, which could show dirt more easily.
This Forno Salerno refrigerator is a well-rounded appliance that balances style and functionality, making it a solid choice for many kitchens.
3. DUURA Elite DE210FDBMDSS Refrigerator Built in with French Doors Adjustable Glass Shelves Dual Drawer Bottom Freezer with Ice Maker
Rating: 8.8/10
The DUURA Elite DE210FDBMDSS Refrigerator is a spacious and feature-rich appliance that will upgrade your kitchen. Its sleek stainless steel exterior and French doors give it a modern look. This fridge offers plenty of room for all your groceries with its 20.7 cubic feet of storage. You can keep your food perfectly fresh and frozen thanks to its precise temperature controls.
What We Like:
- Generous 20.7 cubic feet of space for both fresh and frozen foods.
- Built-in ice maker for convenient ice production.
- Adjustable temperature settings let you set the perfect cool for your items.
- Humidity-controlled crispers keep fruits and vegetables fresh longer.
- Adjustable gallon door bins offer flexible storage for drinks and condiments.
- Dual-drawer freezer makes organizing frozen goods a breeze.
- Front exhaust design is ideal for a built-in look, creating a seamless kitchen.
- Bright LED interior light makes it easy to see everything inside.
What Could Be Improved:
- The metallic finish might show fingerprints easily and require frequent cleaning.
- While it has many features, some advanced smart home integrations are not present.
This DUURA Elite refrigerator is a fantastic option for families needing ample storage and excellent organization. It combines style and functionality to keep your food at its best.
4. Kenmore 33 in. 20.5 cu. ft. Capacity Refrigerator/Freezer with Full-Width Adjustable Glass Shelving
Rating: 8.8/10
The Kenmore 33-inch Refrigerator/Freezer is a great choice for busy families. It offers a large 20.5 cu. ft. of storage space. This means you have plenty of room for all your groceries. The fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish looks sleek in any kitchen. Plus, it’s ENERGY STAR certified, so it helps save you money on your electric bill.
What We Like:
- Big storage for lots of food.
- Adjustable glass shelves fit tall items and big platters.
- Humidity-controlled drawers keep fruits and veggies fresh longer.
- Gallon door bins hold big drink containers.
- ENERGY STAR certified saves energy and money.
- Fingerprint-resistant finish stays clean.
- Bright LED lights make it easy to see inside.
What Could Be Improved:
- The icemaker is optional and costs extra.
- Some users might prefer more drawer space in the freezer.
This Kenmore refrigerator is a solid option for keeping your food organized and fresh. It offers smart features and a good amount of space for most households.
5. Kenmore 4675625 36″ French Door Refrigerator with Freezer Accela Chill
Rating: 9.0/10
The Kenmore 4675625 36″ French Door Refrigerator is a stylish and smart addition to any kitchen. Its fingerprint-resistant stainless steel finish looks great and is easy to clean. This fridge offers a huge amount of space for all your food, but it fits neatly into your kitchen thanks to its counter-depth design. It’s built to keep your food fresh and your energy bills low.
What We Like:
- Extra Large Capacity in a Counter-Depth Design: You get 28.6 cubic feet of storage, which is a lot! This means you can fit all your groceries, even for big family meals or parties. The gallon door bins and full-width pantry drawer help you organize everything.
- Rapid Cooling with Accela Chill: This feature quickly cools down new groceries. The inverter compressor keeps the temperature steady, making less noise and lasting longer. This saves energy and keeps your food at the perfect temperature.
- Filtered Water and Ice Dispenser: Enjoy clean, great-tasting water and up to 3 pounds of ice daily. The built-in water filter gives you peace of mind.
- Smart Storage Options: The humidity-controlled crispers keep your fruits and veggies fresh. A foldable shelf lets you store tall items easily. The snack drawer is perfect for smaller items or delicate foods.
- Energy Efficient: It’s ENERGY STAR Certified, which means it uses less electricity and helps save you money on your utility bills.
- Even Cooling System: Dual evaporators and a Multi-Flow Air System make sure the temperature and humidity are just right throughout the entire fridge and freezer.
What Could Be Improved:
- The large capacity might be overwhelming for very small kitchens.
- While the fingerprint-resistant finish is good, it can still show smudges with heavy use.
The Kenmore 4675625 refrigerator offers impressive storage and advanced cooling features in a sleek design. It’s a strong choice for families who need a lot of space and want an energy-efficient appliance.
Your Guide to Finding the Perfect 36-Inch Refrigerator
Choosing a refrigerator is a big decision. You need something that keeps your food fresh and fits your kitchen. A 36-inch refrigerator is a popular size. It offers good space without being too large. Let’s explore what makes a great 36-inch fridge.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a 36-inch refrigerator, keep these important features in mind:
- **Capacity:** How much food can it hold? Look at the cubic feet. For a 36-inch fridge, you’ll usually find options between 20 and 30 cubic feet. This is enough for most families.
- **Configuration:** Do you want the freezer on top, bottom, or side-by-side with the fridge? Each has its pros and cons. Side-by-side offers easy access to both. Bottom freezer models give you more fridge space at eye level.
- **Energy Efficiency:** Look for the ENERGY STAR label. This means the fridge uses less electricity. It saves you money on your power bill and is good for the planet.
- **Cooling Technology:** Some fridges have special cooling systems. These help keep food fresh longer. They might have separate cooling for the fridge and freezer. This stops odors from mixing.
- **Ice and Water Dispenser:** Do you want one? Many 36-inch models offer this. Some have it on the door, while others are inside. Consider if you need filtered water.
- **Smart Features:** Some newer fridges connect to your Wi-Fi. You can control them with your phone. They might even tell you when the filter needs changing.
Important Materials
The materials used in a refrigerator affect its look and how long it lasts.
- **Stainless Steel:** This is a very popular choice. It looks modern and is usually fingerprint-resistant. It’s strong and easy to clean.
- **Black Stainless Steel:** This offers a sleek, dark look. It can hide smudges better than regular stainless steel.
- **White or Black Enamel:** These are classic options. They are budget-friendly and easy to wipe down.
- **Interior Shelving:** Glass shelves are common. They are easy to clean and look nice. Some shelves are adjustable, which gives you more flexibility for storing tall items.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a refrigerator great or not so great.
- **Build Quality:** A well-built fridge feels sturdy. Doors should open and close smoothly. Components should feel solid, not flimsy.
- **Noise Level:** Some refrigerators are louder than others. Look for models that are known for being quiet. This is especially important if your kitchen is near living areas.
- **Temperature Consistency:** A good fridge keeps food at the right temperature. It shouldn’t have hot or cold spots. This is key to keeping food safe and fresh.
- **Durability:** High-quality parts mean the fridge will last longer. Read reviews to see if other users have had problems with breakdowns.
- **Ease of Cleaning:** A fridge that’s hard to clean can be frustrating. Look for features like spill-proof shelves and easy-to-remove drawers.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use your refrigerator matters. Think about your daily life.
- **Families:** A 36-inch fridge with a large capacity and good organization is ideal. A water dispenser is very handy.
- **Entertainers:** If you host parties, you need space for drinks and appetizers. Side-by-side models can be great for this.
- **Busy Individuals:** A fridge with simple controls and reliable cooling is important. Smart features can help manage groceries.
- **Small Kitchens:** Even with a 36-inch width, thoughtful interior design makes a big difference. Adjustable shelves help you make the most of the space.
Frequently Asked Questions about 36-Inch Refrigerators
Q: What is the most common type of 36-inch refrigerator?
A: The most common types are side-by-side and French door models. These offer good access and storage options.
Q: Are 36-inch refrigerators energy efficient?
A: Many 36-inch refrigerators are ENERGY STAR certified. This means they use less energy. Always check for the ENERGY STAR label.
Q: How much food can a 36-inch refrigerator hold?
A: They typically hold between 20 and 30 cubic feet of food. This is a good amount for most households.
Q: Is stainless steel worth the extra cost?
A: Stainless steel is durable and looks modern. It can be worth it if you want a stylish and long-lasting appliance.
Q: What does “French door” mean for a refrigerator?
A: French door refrigerators have two doors for the refrigerator compartment on top. The freezer is usually a pull-out drawer below.
Q: Should I get an ice and water dispenser?
A: It depends on your needs. They are very convenient for filtered water and ice, but can sometimes be more expensive and require filter changes.
Q: How do I clean the inside of my refrigerator?
A: You can use a mild soap and water solution. For tough stains, a baking soda paste can work. Always unplug the fridge before cleaning.
Q: What is a good noise level for a refrigerator?
A: Most refrigerators operate between 40 and 50 decibels. Quieter models are usually below 45 decibels.
Q: Can I fit a 36-inch refrigerator in a standard kitchen opening?
A: Yes, 36 inches is a standard width. However, always measure your kitchen opening and the refrigerator’s dimensions to be sure.
Q: Where can I find reviews for 36-inch refrigerators?
A: You can find reviews on manufacturer websites, appliance retailer sites, and consumer review websites. Reading reviews from other buyers helps you make a good choice.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.