5 Best 48 Inch Refrigerators for Your Kitchen

Does your current refrigerator feel too small? Imagine opening your fridge and having space for everything—fresh produce, leftovers, and all your favorite drinks. Many homeowners reach a point where standard refrigerators just do not cut it anymore. That’s where the 48-inch refrigerator steps in, offering a fantastic blend of capacity and style.

Choosing a 48-inch model is a big decision. These larger units are an investment, and navigating the different features, finishes, and layouts can feel overwhelming. You worry about fitting it into your kitchen space or picking a model that truly meets your family’s needs. We understand these concerns, and that is why we created this guide.

Inside this post, we break down everything you need to know about 48-inch refrigerators. We will cover the best configurations, energy efficiency tips, and what features are worth the extra cost. By the end, you will feel confident choosing the perfect centerpiece for your kitchen. Let’s dive into finding the ideal large-capacity cooling solution for your home!

Top 48 Inch Refrigerator Recommendations

Bestseller No. 1
Summit Appliance FFBF181ES2KIT48 48" Wide Bottom Freezer Refrigerator Set; 23.4 cu.ft; Grill Included; Adjustable Glass Shelves; No-frost Operation; Child Lockation; Child Lock
  • This set includes Summit's European FFBF181ES2 and FFBF181ES2LHD bottom freezer refrigerators and a decorative top grill (GRILL48B) to fit common 84" H x 48" W spaces
  • Open door alarm
  • Just under 24" deep for an easy fit in smaller kitchens
  • High temperature alarm
  • LED visual alarms
SaleBestseller No. 2
ICECASA 48" W Commercial Refrigerator Reach-in 36 Cu.ft 2 Solid Door Stainless Steel Commercial Refrigerator Fan Cooling for Restuarant, Bar, Shop, etc
  • Full worry-free after-sales service: ICECASA's products have a service life of up to ten years, and we provide up to two years of free on-site maintenance service and six years of free compressor maintenance service. If you have any questions or suggestions about our products and services, please feel free to contact us and we will reply you within 12 hours (Warranty applies to both commercial and residential addresses including churches, schools, food trucks)
  • Intelligent temperature control: Commercial refrigerator temperature: 35℉~43℉, intelligent temperature control, can achieve the effect of rapid cooling, better maintain the flavor of ingredients and lock the nutrition. LCD digital temperature display allows you to monitor the temperature more convenient. Powerful Refrigeration: Our commercial Refrigerator comes with a high-performance compressor, significantly reducing energy costs. The fan cooling system reduces frost and ensures overall uniform cooling, which helps maintain the freshness of your food. Our electric defrost system ensures frost does not form in the refrigerator by defrosting automatically every 4 hours
  • ICECASA double-door refrigerator is an excellent choice for residential use. With a capacity of up to 36 cubic feet and a convenient side-by-side configuration, it can easily hold whole turkeys, large quantities of vegetable & meat ,large quantities of drinks, and bulk-purchased ingredients, making it ideal for infrequent shopping and bulk storage. It is well-suited for large-family living. The ICECASA refrigerator can be placed directly in the garage without any additional installation. Backed by ICECASA’s residential warranty and reliable quality, customers can purchase with confidence
  • Professional design: commercial refrigerator with safety lock. The opening angle is less than 90 degrees to close the door automatically, and more than 90 degrees to keep the door open designed for commercial occasions. And every time you open the door, the fan automatically stops the mechanism can prevent outside air from entering the refrigerator to reduce energy costs
  • Stainless steel exterior and interior: All stainless steel material. Exterior with special process does not leave fingerprints save cleaning time. With the assembly of heavy-duty wheels with brakes for easy movement. In addition the product comes with 6 shelves, each shelf load up to 90 Lbs, you can freely adjust the height and number of shelves
Bestseller No. 3
PeakPursuit 48" W Commercial Freezer -8°F~0°F,Reach-in 36 Cu.ft 2 Door Stainless Steel Commercial Refrigerator Fan Cooling,6 Adjustable Shelves, Auto Defrost,for Restaurant,Bar,Kitchen,Shop
  • Commercial-Grade Storage Capacity:36 cu.ft of organized space with 6 shelveseach shelf load up to 90 Lbs, you can freely adjust the height and number of shelves
  • Professional design: The opening angle is less than 90 degrees to close the door automatically, and more than 90 degrees to keep the door open designed for commercial occasions. And every time you open the door, the fan automatically stops the mechanism can prevent outside air from entering the refrigerator to reduce energy costs
  • Powerful compressor: Commercial Freezer with high-performance compressor, smart digital controller, Fan cooling system, automatically defrost, needs no extra tube for condensing water
  • Intelligent temperature control: Commercial refrigerator temperature: -8°F~0°F, intelligent temperature control, can achieve the effect of rapid cooling, better maintain the flavor of ingredients and lock the nutrition. LCD digital temperature display allows you to monitor the temperature more convenient
  • Dual Defense Durability:Built with scratch resistant brushed 201 stainless steel on the outside for a tough, fingerprint-proof exterior. Lined with a smooth, food-grade 201 stainless steel interior for effortless cleaning and ultimate hygiene. This freezer is engineered to last, combining rugged strength with spotless convenience.
Bestseller No. 4
Coolski 48" W Commercial Refrigerator and Freezer Combo, 36 Cu.ft 2 Section Stainless Steel Solid Door Fan Cooling Upright Reach in Freezer for Restaurant Bar Shop Kitchen Garage School Church
  • Dual-Temp Reach In Refrigerator/Freezer: The commercial refrigerator compartment has a temperature range of 33-41°F, while the commercial freezer compartment can go as low as -8-0°F. The machine will constantly fluctuate up and down within an 8-degree range. Temperature can be easily monitored by digital temperature controller. Large capacity of 36 cubic feet, helps you organize your fresh meat, fruits, and veggies easily accessible manner. Customize your storage using the 6 adjustable shelves.
  • Efficient Air Cooling System: The Commercial refrigerator freezer combo utilizes energy efficiency R290 Hydrocarbon refrigerant, helping you save on electricity bills. Cubigel compressor and copper evaporator work together to ensure fast even cooling and optimal temperature levels throughout your reach-in commercial refrigerator, while the auto defrost design prevents frost or ice buildup. The innovative heating of the freezer door frame prevents water mist buildup.
  • Two Section Refrigerator for Restuarant: The 2 door commercial freezer equipped with two solid doors, provides excellent insulation to maintain consistent temperatures and preserve the freshness of your food items, if a door is left open under 90°, it will automatically close. However, if a door is left open over 90°, it will remain ajar. Door locks for protecting and limiting access to food and drinks as needed. Full-door recessed handles, is perfect for tight kitchens.
  • Convenient to Use: The LED lights up whenever you open the doors, allowing you to empty or stock up your refrigerator with ease. Magnetic door gaskets are supplied with the fridge to help maintain internal temperatures as well as keep dust and other debris out. The unit also comes with heavy-duty casters, making it easy to move and position in your kitchen. Door open alarm will mention to you the door is not closed properly.
  • Customer Service: Commercial refrigerator freezers are certified by ETL and DOE for restaurant open authorization, 6 years compressor warranty, 2 years parsts warranty on commercial freezer. Coolski provides a professional telephone customer service team. Our warehouses are located throughout the United States, CA, NJ, GA, TX. After placing an order, please send your mobile phone number to achieve fast transported by truck.
SaleBestseller No. 5
Tylza Commercial Refrigerator and Freezer Combo, 48" W Dual Temperature Zones, All Stainless Steel Design, 770L 6 Adjustable Shelves Refrigerator and Freezer Combo for Restuarant, Shop, Garage, etc
  • Dual Temperature Zones: Commercial refrigerator-freezer combo with separate temperature controls for refrigerator and freezer compartments
  • Capacity and Design: 770L storage capacity with 6 adjustable shelves in a 47.3-inch wide stainless steel construction
  • Cooling System: Advanced fan cooling technology ensures consistent temperature distribution throughout both compartments
  • Construction Material: All stainless steel design provides durability and professional appearance for commercial settings
  • Installation Versatility: Suitable for installation in restaurants, retail shops, garages, and other commercial spaces
SaleBestseller No. 6
ICECASA 48" W Commercial Refrigerators and Freezer Combo Reach-in 36 Cu.ft 2 Solid Door Stainless Steel Refrigerators and Freezer Combo Fan Cooling for Restuarant, Bar, Shop, etc
  • Full worry-free after-sales service: ICECASA's products have a service life of up to ten years, and we provide up to two years of free on-site maintenance service and six years of free compressor maintenance service. If you have any questions or suggestions about our products and services, please feel free to contact us and we will reply you within 12 hours (Warranty applies to both commercial and residential addresses including churches, schools, food trucks)
  • Intelligent temperature control: Temperature: commercial freezer: -8℉~0℉, commercial refrigerator: 33℉~40℉, intelligent temperature control achieves rapid cooling, better maintains ingredient flavor and locks in nutrition. LCD digital temperature display allows you to monitor the temperature more conveniently. Powerful Refrigeration: Our refrigerator and freezer combo comes with a high-performance double compressor, significantly reducing energy costs. The fan cooling system reduces frost and ensures uniform cooling, helping maintain food freshness. Our electric defrost system prevents frost by automatically defrosting every 4 hours
  • ICECASA double-door refrigerator and freezer combo is an excellent choice for residential use. With a capacity of up to 36 cubic feet and a convenient side-by-side configuration, it can easily hold whole turkeys, large quantities of vegetable & meat ,large quantities of drinks, and bulk-purchased ingredients, making it ideal for infrequent shopping and bulk storage. It is well-suited for large-family living. The ICECASA refrigerator can be placed directly in the garage without any additional installation. Backed by ICECASA’s residential warranty and reliable quality, customers can purchase with confidence
  • Professional design: commercial freezer with safety lock. The opening angle is less than 90 degrees to close the door automatically, and more than 90 degrees to keep the door open designed for commercial occasions. And every time you open the door, the fan automatically stops the mechanism can prevent outside air from entering the freezer to reduce energy costs.
  • Stainless steel exterior and interior: All stainless steel material. Exterior with special process does not leave fingerprints save cleaning time. With the assembly of heavy-duty wheels with brakes for easy movement. In addition the product comes with 6 shelves, each shelf load up to 90 Lbs, you can freely adjust the height and number of shelves
Bestseller No. 7
ICECASA 48" W Commercial Refrigerator Worktop Undercounter Refrigerator 2 Door Stainless Steel Counter Fan Cooling Refrigerator 13 Cu.ft for Restaurant, Bar, Shop, etc
  • Full worry-free after-sales service: ICECASA's products have a service life of up to ten years, and we provide up to two years of free on-site maintenance service and six years of free compressor maintenance service. If you have any questions or suggestions about our products and services, please feel free to contact us and we will reply you within 12 hours (Warranty applies to both commercial and residential addresses including churches, schools, food trucks)
  • Powerful Refrigeration: Our commercial worktop undercounter refrigerator comes with a high-performance compressor, significantly reducing energy costs. The fan cooling system reduces frost and ensures overall uniform cooling, which helps maintain the freshness of your food. Our electric defrost system ensures frost does not form in the refrigerator by defrosting automatically every 4 hours
  • Intelligent temperature control: Commercial worktop undercounter refrigerator temperature: 33℉~41℉, intelligent temperature control, can achieve the effect of rapid cooling, better maintain the flavor of ingredients and lock the nutrition. LCD digital temperature display allows you to monitor the temperature more convenient
  • Professional design: The opening angle is less than 90 degrees to close the door automatically, and more than 90 degrees to keep the door open designed for commercial occasions. Equipped with a 10 square foot cutting board, and the 2.1-inch thick countertop provides up to 440 pounds of weight capacity to meet your use in restaurant, kitchens
  • Stainless steel exterior and interior: All stainless steel material. Exterior with special process does not leave fingerprints save cleaning time. With the assembly of heavy-duty wheels with brakes for easy movement. In addition the product comes with 2 shelves, each shelf load up to 90 Lbs, you can freely adjust the height and number of shelves
Bestseller No. 8
WESTLAKE 48" W Commercial Refrigerator 2 door 2 Section Stainless Steel Reach in Solid door Upright Fan Cooling 36 Cu.ft Cooler for Restuarant, Bar, Shop, etc
  • Fully guaranteed maintenance service: Stainless Steel interior and exterior, exterior stainless steel designed with anti-fingerprint function, 6-year warranty on compressor, 2-year warranty on all parts, and labor and manual door-to-door service. We have professional customer service personnel and engineers to answer your questions online. Welcome to contact us by phone or email(Warranty service applies both in commercial address and residential address )
  • Comprehensive accreditation: ETL certified, meeting ETL SAFETY, ETL SANITATION. This ensures compliance with strict industry standards for safety, sanitation, and energy efficiency, making it an excellent choice for restaurants ,instituions and organizations .100% copper evaporator with 401W(m.k) thermal conductivity features high heat transfer efficency so that WESTALKE freezer can provide fast cooling and quick -freezing speed as well rapid temperature recovery after door opening .Copper evaporator is strong resistance to moisture ,acid and alkali erosion , no prone to leakage ,cracking or rusting so that WESTLAKE freezer can last for more than 10 years using in commercial scenarios
  • Good for the residential use: WESTLAKE double door refrigerator is also in good use for residence. With a capacity up to 36 cubic feet and a configuaration of side-by side, residential customers can easily accommodate big amounts of vegetable & meat ,large quantities of drinks, and bulk-purchased ingredients, catering to the American habit of buying in bulk and shopping less frequently .It meets the needs of big-family living . WESTLAKE refrigerator can be put in the garage, no needing any extra installation. With WESTLAKE residential-covered warranty service as well as its solid qualtiy, customers have no worries to purchase from us
  • Powerful compressor: Commercial refrigerator with high-performance compressor, smart digital controller, Fan cooling system, automatically defrost, need no extra tube for condensing water. Efficient refrigeration: Cooler Temperature: 33℉~40℉(0.5℃~4.5℃), digital temperature control is convenient for you to set the temperature easily. The temperature can be monitored in real-time through the LCD display
  • Professional design: Made of stainless steel inside and outside, durable and durable. The surface is specially treated without fingerprints, saving cleaning time and increasing work efficiency. Reach in 2 solid door designs, The opening angle is less than 90 degrees to close the door automatically, and more than 90 degrees to keep the door open designed. 90 lbs loading capacity per shelf, 36 cubic feet storage room. The unit comes with 4" casters, It's convenient for you to move it when you need it.*Since the products are transported by truck, the carrier provides curbside handover only.

The Ultimate Buying Guide for Your 48-Inch Refrigerator

Choosing a 48-inch refrigerator can feel like a big decision. These models offer lots of space for families who cook often or love to entertain. This guide will help you pick the best one for your kitchen.

Key Features to Look For

When you shop for a big fridge, you need to check a few important things:

  • Capacity and Configuration: 48-inch fridges usually come in side-by-side or French door styles. French door models give you wide shelf space for platters. Side-by-side models offer easy access to both fridge and freezer sections. Think about how you organize food.
  • Ice and Water Dispenser: Many models feature through-the-door dispensers. Check if you need crushed ice, cubed ice, or just filtered water. Some advanced models even offer craft ice!
  • Smart Features: Newer refrigerators have Wi-Fi connectivity. You can check the temperature remotely or even see what groceries you need using an internal camera.
  • Adjustable Shelving: Good shelving lets you customize the space. Look for spill-proof glass shelves and bins that slide out easily.

Important Materials and Build Quality

The materials used affect how long your fridge lasts and how good it looks.

Exterior Finish

Most 48-inch refrigerators use stainless steel. Fingerprint-resistant finishes are very popular because they keep your kitchen looking clean. Black stainless steel or custom panel-ready options can match your cabinets perfectly.

Interior Components

The interior bins should feel sturdy. Look for shelves made of tempered glass; these resist cracking if you drop something heavy. Plastic drawers should feel thick, not flimsy. High-quality compressors run quietly and save energy.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Certain design choices make a big difference in your daily use.

Quality Boosters
  • Dual Cooling Systems: Some high-end models use separate cooling systems for the fridge and freezer. This stops freezer odors from getting into your fresh food.
  • Soft-Close Doors: These prevent doors from slamming shut, which is great for busy kitchens.
  • Precise Temperature Control: Digital controls that let you set the temperature exactly where you want it help keep food fresher longer.
Quality Reducers
  • Poor Insulation: Thin walls mean the fridge works harder to stay cold. This uses more electricity.
  • Noisy Operation: If the compressor or ice maker makes loud sounds, it can really bother you, especially in open-concept homes.
  • Flimsy Drawer Slides: When drawers stick or feel wobbly, it lowers the overall user satisfaction quickly.

User Experience and Use Cases

A 48-inch refrigerator is a major appliance. Think about who uses it and how.

For the Big Family

Large families need space for bulk shopping. A 48-inch model easily holds gallons of milk, large juice containers, and plenty of leftovers. The French door style works well here because wide refrigerator space handles pizza boxes or large casserole dishes easily.

For the Entertainer

If you host parties, you need quick access to drinks and appetizers. Models with dedicated beverage centers or easy-access freezer drawers are perfect. You can keep party supplies separate from daily groceries.

Kitchen Fit

Always measure your space! A 48-inch unit is wide. Make sure you have enough room for the doors to swing open fully without hitting counters or islands. Also, check the depth—some models are counter-depth for a sleeker look, while others stick out more for maximum storage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About 48-Inch Refrigerators

Q: Are 48-inch refrigerators hard to install?

A: Yes, they are large and heavy. Professional installation is usually recommended. Make sure your doorways are wide enough for delivery!

Q: Do 48-inch models use a lot of electricity?

A: Because they are bigger, they use more energy overall than small fridges. However, look for the ENERGY STAR rating. Newer, high-efficiency models manage energy use well.

Q: What is the difference between Counter-Depth and Standard-Depth in this size?

A: Counter-depth means the fridge body lines up closer to your standard kitchen cabinets, looking built-in. Standard-depth offers more internal storage capacity but sticks out further into the room.

Q: How long do these large refrigerators typically last?

A: With good maintenance, a quality 48-inch refrigerator should last between 10 to 15 years. Keep the coils clean for better performance.

Q: Are 48-inch refrigerators more expensive than 36-inch models?

A: Yes, they are generally more expensive because they require more materials and advanced features.

Q: Do I need special water lines for the ice maker?

A: Most models with internal or door ice/water dispensers require a connection to a cold water line behind the unit.

Q: What is a “Built-In” refrigerator?

A: Built-in models are designed to fit perfectly flush with surrounding cabinetry and often have more powerful cooling components, making them more expensive.

Q: How do I clean the fingerprint-resistant finish?

A: Use a soft, damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the special coating.

Q: Can I fit a 48-inch fridge in a standard kitchen opening?

A: Standard kitchen openings are often designed for 36-inch models. You must measure your existing cutout carefully before buying a 48-inch unit.

Q: Are replacement parts easy to find for these larger fridges?

A: Parts for major brands are usually available, but specialized parts for high-end features might take longer to ship.