What Is the Average Refrigerator Weight?

As refrigerators come in a range of models and sizes, it is clear that the average refrigerator weight can be exceedingly difficult to calculate. However, calculating the weight of a refrigerator can be useful if you are hoping to have it removed, or are planning to sell an old one for scrap. There are so many varieties of refrigerators, from small, half-height models to side-mounted fridge-freezers that are taller than the average human being. The differences will also be affected by the age of the refrigerator, how heavy the internal engine is, and many other calculations.

Older Refrigerators

If you have a refrigerator that is more than around 15 years old, then you will most likely have a fridge that weighs more than something newer. These can weigh as much as 250 pounds or nearly 100 kilograms. In addition, they may have larger propulsion tanks fitted internally, and other electrical items which will be heavier than comparably sized modern varieties.

Newer Refrigerators

Refrigerators that were built after 1995 will be made with lighter materials, and often feature removable parts that can be unscrewed prior to lifting to make moving easier. But because of the wide variety in size, model, and manufacturer, the average refrigerator from this age can range anywhere from 170-350 pounds. This calculation can also be affected by any additional modern conveniences such as in-door water and ice dispenser.

Size and Model

As you probably already guessed, size is important when averaging the weight of your refrigerator. An average modern, full-sized refrigerator is about 18 cubic feet, but the larger the fridge, often the heavier it is. Specific models, such as side-by-side and french door types, can also be indicative of a heavier weight since they average larger than the generic top freezer unit. This isn't true for all models and manufacturers, but you can still use the size and model of your unit to average whether yours will be on the lower or upper end of the scale in terms of weight.

Extras

As technology continues to improve, so do our home appliances. While people in the 1920s were thrilled with simply having an easier way to keep food chilled and frozen, refrigerators of the modern-day are far more complex and having any of the newer features could add weight to your refrigerator. Features such as dual evaporators, temperature-controlled crisper drawers, and special shelving designs must be considered when estimating your weight. Likely, if you have a higher-end refrigerator with a lot of these bonuses, you will come out at the top of the scale.