A 48” refrigerator offers the ultimate in luxury: ample storage and a design that makes a true statement. It’s no mistake you’ll find these high-end refrigerators in the kitchens of popular entertainers and food celebs, but they’ve also been common additions for homeowners who has the coin to splurge.
But buying a 48 inch refrigerator involves more than picking a favorite brand or style, and our experts have put together the checklist for you to follow. Follow this guide as we walk you through everything you should know to make an informed choice.
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Shop 48" Refrigerators5 Things You Should Know About 48” Refrigerator Models
Despite the size, shopping for a 48” refrigerator comes with basic guidelines, along with a few specific ones. These are five major considerations our experts suggest reviewing before choosing a 48 inch fridge.
Measuring for a 48” Refrigerator
Before falling in love with a particular 48 inch wide refrigerator, you need to be sure your kitchen has enough space for it.
Standard 48 inch fridge dimensions generally measure:
- 83 to 85 inches in height
- 24 to 30 inches in depth
- 48 inches wide
However, you also need to allow clearance for door swing, ventilation, and surrounding cabinetry. To get the right refrigerator dimensions, follow these steps:
How to Measure a Refrigerator
- Measure the Height: Measure from the floor to the top of your cutout space, ensuring the refrigerator clears overhangs, moldings, or overhead cabinets.
- Measure the Width: Include space for door clearance when open. Most manufacturers recommend at least ½ inch on either side.
- Measure the Depth: Measure the depth of cabinets, walls, and backsplash. Remember, a 48 inch built-in refrigerator will sit flush with surrounding cabinetry, whereas freestanding counter-depth models stick out up to 48 inches beyond cabinets and countertops.
- Consider Utilities: If your fridge has water or ice dispensers, locate water lines and electrical outlets. Make sure wiring and plumbing can reach the appliance without strain.
- Check for Ventilation: Built-in models often require space at the back and top for airflow to prevent overheating.
Installing a 48” Refrigerator
Once you’ve measured for a 48” refrigerator, consider professional installation. While some homeowners with experience may be able to attempt a DIY a 48 inch fridge installation, it’s generally not recommended.
That’s because incorrect installation can void the warranty, damage the appliance, or create performance issues. Certified installers are able to ensure proper leveling, secure water connections, and seamless integration with cabinetry, especially for panel-ready models.
Choosing the Right 48” Refrigerator Style
A 48” refrigerator comes in several designs, each with unique advantages and target buyers. Understanding the pros and cons of French door, side-by-side, and counter-depth refrigerators will help you choose the model that aligns with your kitchen workflow and lifestyle.
48” French Door Refrigerator
🟢Pros: 48” French door refrigerators combine wide storage with a bottom freezer for easy access to frozen food. Adjustable shelving and crisper drawers make fridge organizing simple. Many models also include dual ice makers, filtered water dispensers, and smart connectivity.
🔴Cons: This is generally a more expensive 48” refrigerator style and a lower freezer can be hard for some users to use.
🔵Best for: Entertainers or large households who prioritize fresh food accessibility and want a luxury-feeling appliance in the kitchen.
48” Side by Side Refrigerator
🟢Pros: 48” side by side refrigerators offer tall, vertical compartments with the freezer and fridge lined up side by side, providing quick access to both frozen and fresh items. Side-by-side designs are often more affordable than full-width French door models.
🔴Cons: Narrow shelves can limit storage for larger items like party platters or wide pizza boxes.
🔵Best for: Busy households who want an organized layout with easy access to frozen foods and prefer a tall, less deep footprint for standard kitchen layouts.
48” Counter Depth Refrigerator
🟢Pros: Counter-depth 48” refrigerators sit nearly flush with cabinets for a seamless, built-in look, making them ideal for modern kitchens. This style often includes luxury features like adjustable shelves, ice/water dispensers, and smart controls.
🔴Cons: Storage capacity is slightly less than full-depth models due to the shallower interior.
🔵Best for: Homeowners seeking a high-end, integrated look without sacrificing key refrigerator functions.
Panel Ready vs. Standard 48” Refrigerator
Many luxury 48 inch built-in refrigerators offer panel-ready fronts, allowing your fridge to match surrounding cabinetry. Panel-ready appliances are cohesive but require the purchase of separate custom panels and professional installation. While the upfront cost is higher, the result is a visually cohesive design that enhances the overall aesthetic. If a seamless, built-in look is a priority, panel-ready options are worth the investment.
Learn More: Choosing the Right Panel Ready Refrigerator
48” Refrigerator Pricing
Luxury 48” refrigerators start at premium price points, for their advanced technology, large capacities, and sophisticated designs. Expect 48 inch built-in refrigerator prices to begin in the high-end range with many models costing $10,000 or more.
Shipping
Due to their size and availability (luxury fridges are generally custom orders), 48 inch fridge models are often shipped to order. This means lead times can extend several weeks, and buyers should plan remodels or installations accordingly. Advanced planning ensures that the appliance arrives on schedule and avoids delays in kitchen projects.
The Appeal of a 48” Refrigerator
Aside from a clear luxury experience, 48 inch fridges come with perks that are exclusive to the design. Overall, we recommend a 48” refrigerator for:
✅Large households: With 25 to 30+ cubic feet of storage, you can store more groceries, meal prep, and bulk purchases without crowding.
✅Entertainers: Ample freezer and fridge compartments accommodate party platters, beverages, and fresh ingredients, making 48” refrigerators a dream for entertainers.
✅Luxury kitchen upgrades: Full-width, panel-ready, or built-in designs enhance kitchen aesthetics while offering premium features.
✅Large kitchens: 48-inch models make proportional sense in expansive kitchen layouts and provide balance with oversized cabinetry or islands.
Learn More: 5 Signature Kitchen Suite Refrigerator Features You’ll Use Every Day
Top Picks: 48 Inch Refrigerators for Luxury Experiences
Wondering what is the best 48 inch refrigerator? We’ve rounded up our top high end refrigerators from the best 48” refrigerator reviews to get you started on your journey.
Sub-Zero Classic Series 48” 28.9 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Built-In Counter Depth French Door Refrigerator
Shop This Sub-Zero Refrigerator
This Sub-Zero 48” French door refrigerator from the Classic Series provides nearly 29 cubic feet of storage and revolutionary Split Climate cooling. Its state-of-the-art food preservation is unmatched, and this model keeps produce and proteins fresher for longer. ClearSight LED lighting illuminates the interior fully, while the internal water dispenser provides fresh, filtered water without interrupting the sleek stainless-steel design. With Wi-Fi connectivity, night mode lighting, and customizable freezer baskets, this refrigerator combines convenience with luxury. Its industry-leading warranties and rigorously tested durability make it a long-term investment in both style and performance.
Dacor 48 in. 27.7 Cu. Ft. Panel Ready Built In Counter Depth French Door Refrigerator
This Dacor 48-inch fridge combines panel-ready customization with innovative features like dual ice makers and the Freshzone drawer. The Hidden Touch Control panel and auto-fill water pitcher enhance convenience, while precise cooling technology maintains consistent temperature performance. Style-forward entertainers will love its looks, plus features like the whisky ball ice maker for a unique spin on specialty drinks.
⭐Featured Dacor DRF487500AP Review:
“Amazing appliance! Love the depth of the fridge the ambient lighting and whiskey ball ice. Can definitely see this fridge inside my home.”
SKS 48” 26.0 Cu. Ft. Panel Ready Built-In Counter Depth French Door Refrigerator
The SKS SKSFD4826P 48-inch refrigerator offers precise preservation and modern styling with dual ice makers, convertible drawers, and LED interior lighting. Signature Fit ensures integration with surrounding cabinetry, creating a seamless kitchen design. Inside, adjustable drawers and shelving make organization simple, which is ideal for large families or culinary enthusiasts. Its panel-ready design allows homeowners to customize the exterior while enjoying high-end cooling technology.
KitchenAid 48 in. 29.4 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel with PrintShield Finish Built In Counter Depth Side-by-Side Refrigerator
Shop This KitchenAid Refrigerator
This KitchenAid 48 inch side by side refrigerator features over 29 cubic feet of storage, extendable FreshChill drawers, and sliding storage trays. The Max Cool and Max Freeze modes deliver rapid temperature adjustments to preserve ingredients, while the PrintShield stainless finish resists fingerprints. Overall, the KBSD708MPS is a top choice for ideal for households that require efficient, organized food storage in a system with a high-end aesthetic.
Learn More: 6 Best Features in KitchenAid’s Latest Built-In Refrigerators
Monogram 48 in. 28.6 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Built In Counter Depth Side-by-Side Refrigerator
Shop This Monogram Refrigerator
Our recommendation from Monogram delivers advanced temperature management with an air tower that evenly distributes cold air. The climate-control drawer allows precise chilling and thawing, while WiFi Connect enables remote appliance controlTrue stainless dispensers accommodate glasses of various sizes, and the sealed vegetable drawer preserves freshness. Designed for luxury kitchens, this full size refrigerator balances performance, style, and functionality for high-volume households.
⭐Featured Monogram ZISS480DNSS Review:
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JennAir Rise 48 in. 29.4 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Built In Counter Depth Side-by-Side Refrigerator
Shop This JennAir Refrigerator
JennAir Rise offers a daring Obsidian interior with multi-point cinematic lighting for dramatic presentation of ingredients. Its fully flush, integrated design creates a sleek, invisible look, and then there’s a striking contrast once the door is opened. The Precision Temperature Management system ensures optimal cooling, while climate-controlled crisper drawers preserve produce. Gallon door bins, adjustable shelving, and Max Cool/Max Freeze modes provide ultimate versatility. Perfect for design-forward homeowners who entertain frequently, this 48 inch built-in refrigerator combines luxury aesthetics with top-tier refrigeration technology.
⭐Featured JennAir JBSS48E22L Review:
“Very quiet. The black interior looks great. A very nice addition to our kitchen.”
Leveling up to the largest refrigerator size on the market is a big deal, and we want to make sure you get it right the first time. That’s why at FBS Appliance, we’re ready to help you find the right model and brand to fit your budget, kitchen size, and food storage needs. Stop by one of our Texas appliance stores today to learn more!
Learn More: KitchenAid Refrigerator Review: Reliability Ratings and Performance Data
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Shop 48” Refrigerators at FBS Appliance
At Factory Builder Stores, we are dedicated to providing the ultimate appliance sales experience. Whether you're upgrading your kitchen or outfitting a new home, our expert team is here to guide you through the process, offering personalized recommendations tailored to your needs and preferences. From sleek to high-performance refrigerators, we have the best choices to enhance any space. Trust Factory Builder Stores for unbeatable quality, selection, and service that will elevate your home.
Learn More: Austin’s Most In-Demand Refrigerators: 6 Bestsellers at FBS Appliance