How to Measure Your Space Before Buying Appliances

One of the most overlooked steps when buying a new appliance is also one of the most critical: measuring your space correctly. A refrigerator that’s half an inch too wide, or a range that blocks a cabinet door, can turn what should be an exciting upgrade into a costly headache. At Alabama Appliance in Irondale, AL, our team walks customers through this process every day. Here’s how to do it right.

General Measuring Rules

Before shopping for any appliance, gather a tape measure and note the following for each space:

1. Width: Measure the opening at the top, middle, and bottom—take the smallest measurement as your constraint
2. Height: Measure from the floor to the bottom of the upper cabinet or the ceiling
3. Depth: Measure from the back wall to the front edge of the cabinetry
4. Doorways and hallways: Measure every doorway and hallway the delivery team will need to navigate—minimum 32 inches wide is typically required for large appliances

Always measure twice and leave at minimum ¼–½ inch of clearance on each side for installation and ventilation.

Measuring for a Refrigerator

Your refrigerator needs space not just to fit, but also to breathe. Most manufacturers recommend 1 inch of clearance on the sides and top, and 2 inches at the back for airflow to the condenser. Without proper ventilation, the compressor works harder and the unit wears out faster.

Also consider door swing clearance: French door refrigerators need space for both doors to open fully. Side-by-side refrigerators work well in tighter spaces because each door only swings halfway. If you want a built-in refrigerator, measure for a flush fit with your cabinetry depth (typically 24 inches).

Measuring for a Range or Cooktop

Standard freestanding ranges are 30 inches wide and require a cutout of exactly 30 inches between cabinets. Measure your opening carefully—too tight and the unit won’t slide in; too wide and you’ll have unsightly gaps.

For cooktops, you’ll need the countertop cutout dimensions specified by the manufacturer, as these vary by model. Always check that there’s adequate cabinet depth below the cooktop for the burner housing and gas or electric connections.

Gas and electric ranges also require clearance from combustible surfaces—typically a minimum of 30 inches between the cooktop and the bottom of overhead cabinets, more if no range hood is installed.

Measuring for a Dishwasher

Standard built-in dishwashers are 24 inches wide and 34–35 inches tall. Measure the width of your cabinet opening and the height from the floor to the underside of your countertop. Also confirm there’s a water supply line, drain connection, and electrical outlet accessible under the sink nearby.

Measuring for a Washer and Dryer

For your washer and dryer, measure the width, depth, and height of the laundry space. Leave at least 1 inch on each side and 6 inches at the back for hoses and connections. If you’re stacking units, confirm the combined height fits within your space and that you have the correct stacking kit for your model.

For laundry pedestals, add their height to the total—typically 12–16 inches—and make sure you still have comfortable clearance for loading and unloading.

Bring Your Measurements to the Store

Write all your measurements on paper or take a photo of your notes before visiting us. Our team at Alabama Appliance can then help you find exactly the right appliance for your space. Visit our showroom at 7956 Crestwood Blvd, Irondale, AL 35210, call (205) 777-5154, or email sales@alabamaappliance.com. We’ll make sure what you buy actually fits perfectly.