How to Measure for Appliances the Right Way
- Sonia Awamleh
- Sep 24
- 4 min read
How to Measure for Appliances the Right Way
When shopping for a refrigerator, washer and dryer set, dishwasher, gas stove, microwave ovens, or wall ovens, proper measurement is the difference between a smooth delivery and a return headache. Whether you’re buying brand-new, scratch and dent appliances in Austin TX, or choosing a refurbished washing machine from an appliance outlet in Dallas, the same rules apply.
The Golden Rules Before Measuring
Always measure the width × depth × height of the space in at least three points (top, middle, bottom) and record the smallest. Then check:
The delivery path: doorways, hallways, stairs—your fridge freezers, washer dryer combo, or used stove has to pass through these spaces.
Ventilation clearance: refrigerators, dryers (gas or electric), and microwave ovens need air space behind, above, and on the sides.
Door swing and drawers: make sure dishwasher and washer doors can open fully.
Utility connections: confirm you’ve got water lines, drains, outlets, and gas hookups in the right place.
Floor height: measure after flooring is installed so appliances sit flush.
These rules apply to everything from cheap washer and dryer set options to high-end kitchen appliance stores in Austin TX.
Measuring for a Refrigerator or Fridge Freezer
For a standard fridge or counter-depth refrigerator, measure width, depth (with and without doors), and height under your cabinets. Leave 1–2 inches clearance on top and sides, and 2 inches at the back for ventilation and water lines. If you’re buying scratch and dent appliances Austin Texas shoppers love, make sure you also measure the delivery path, since large French door fridges often require doors removed during delivery.
Measuring for a Dishwasher
A full-size dishwasher requires a 24" wide × 24" deep × 33.5–34.75" tall cutout under your countertop. Slimline models need just 18". Always check the front clearance: allow at least 27" so the door can open fully. Inside the cavity, confirm room for water supply, drain hose, and electrical connection. This holds true whether you buy online, from an appliance liquidation center, or at a used appliance store Austin TX locals recommend.
Measuring for a Gas Stove or Used Stove
A standard gas stove or electric range is 30" wide and typically requires a 30" cutout. Allow at least 30" of vertical clearance between burners and cabinets above, unless you have a protected hood. Don’t forget the anti-tip bracket, which keeps the oven from tipping when heavy pots or people lean on the open door. If you’re browsing used appliances Dallas TX outlets carry, check all the same details—especially gas or electric connections.
Measuring for Microwave Ovens
Over-the-range microwave ovens are designed for 30" wide cabinet openings, 12–13" deep. The bottom of the unit should be about 30" above your cooktop. Stronger gas stoves may require additional clearance, so check manufacturer guides. If you’re shopping appliance outlet stores near me or appliance liquidation centers, confirm whether the microwave will vent outside (ducted) or inside (recirculating).
Measuring for a Range Hood
A hood should be as wide as—or wider than—your cooktop. Install it 20–30" above your burners. Follow the ducting size recommended by the brand (commonly 6–8" round or rectangular 3¼"×10"). Keep duct runs short with minimal elbows. Appliance outlet shoppers in Round Rock or Dallas often overlook ducting, but it’s essential for performance.
Measuring for a Washer and Dryer
A washer and dryer set, whether front-load, top-load, or a stackable washer and dryer, needs extra clearance. Leave 1" on the sides of the washing machine and about 4–5" behind the dryer for vent hoses and hookups. If you’re stacking units, measure the full height to ensure the washer dryer combo fits under ceilings or cabinets. For anyone searching “cheap washer and dryer set near me” or “washer and dryer set sale near me,” remember that delivery teams also need a clear path into laundry rooms.
Measuring for a Wall Oven and Cooktop
A typical 30" wall oven requires about 28.5" wide × 27.25" high × 23.5" deep. Trim overlaps cover small gaps. If you plan to install a cooktop above a wall oven, only do so if the two are approved to be paired by the manufacturer. This applies whether you’re shopping resale ovens from Texas wholesale appliances or brand-new units from kitchen appliance stores Austin TX carries.
Quick Formula for Any Appliance
True depth = body depth + door/handle projection + ventilation clearance.
Cabinet opening = countertop underside – flooring + any trim.
Front clearance = full swing for doors and drawers.
This rule of thumb will save you stress whether you’re buying refurbished appliances near me, hunting for appliance outlet deals in Irving TX, or browsing used appliances online.
Why Customers in Texas Choose Us
At Five Brothers Appliance, also known as 5 Brothers, we specialize in resale and outlet appliance deals across Austin TX, Round Rock, Dallas, and Irving TX. From scratch and dent appliances Austin homeowners trust, to cheap washer and dryer set packages with delivery included, to refurbished washing machines and used appliances near me searches—we’ve got the best deal. Our appliance liquidation center works directly with manufacturers to bring you discount prices, and our appliance outlet stores near me customers rave about offer full delivery service across Texas.
If you’re looking for appliances for sale in Austin TX, Dallas appliance stores, used appliances Irving TX, or even to rent washer dryer sets with flexible buy here pay here options, we’re the store for you. Visit our used appliance outlet today or buy online for fast delivery.
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