Most people don’t think twice about how close they place their refrigerator to a wall. However, if the fridge is too close to the wall, it can cause problems. The condenser coils on the back of the fridge need space to breathe in order to work properly.
If these coils are covered or restricted in any way, the fridge will have to work harder to cool down, which can lead to increased energy usage and higher utility bills. Additionally, not enough clearance around the coils can cause them to overheat and potentially catch fire.
A refrigerator needs to have at least two inches of space on all sides in order for the air to circulate and keep it cool. If your fridge is too close to a wall, it won’t be able to function properly and will start to overheat. This can cause serious damage to your appliance and shorten its lifespan.
So make sure you give your fridge some breathing room!
Ask LG – How much space do you need around your fridge?
What Happens If a Fridge is Too Close to the Wall?
If a fridge is too close to the wall, it can cause the compressor to overheat. This can lead to reduced efficiency and increased energy consumption. Additionally, it can shorten the lifespan of the fridge.
How Far Should a Refrigerator Be from the Back Wall?
There’s no set answer to this question since it can vary depending on the model and make of your refrigerator. However, as a general rule of thumb, you should aim to have at least 3-4 inches of space between your fridge and the back wall. This will ensure that your fridge can properly circulate air and stay cool.

Credit: www.houzz.com
How Much Space Does a Fridge Need for Ventilation
As you may know, a fridge needs space for ventilation. But how much space does it really need?
A fridge typically needs about 1″ of space on all sides for proper airflow. So, if your fridge is 24″ wide, you’ll need at least 24″ of clearance on all sides.
If you have less than that, the fridge will have to work harder to cool itself, which can lead to premature failure.
In addition to the airspace around the sides of the fridge, you also need to allow for some airflow at the top and bottom. The bottom needs about 3-4″ of clearance so cold air can circulate underneath, and the top needs about 2-3″ so hot air can escape.
So, in summary, a fridge needs about 1″ of clearance on all sides, 3-4″ of clearance at the bottom, and 2-3″ of clearance at the top. Make sure you provide adequate ventilation for your fridge and it will serve you well for many years to come!
Can I Put a Refrigerator Next to a Wall
If you’re wondering whether it’s okay to put a refrigerator next to a wall, the answer is generally yes. However, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure that there is enough space for the door to open fully without hitting the wall.
Second, if your refrigerator has a condenser coils on the back, it’s important to allow at least 3-4 inches of space between the coils and the wall so that air can circulate properly. Lastly, it’s always a good idea to consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions on installation and clearance requirements.
How to Fill Gap between Fridge And Wall
If your fridge is sitting too close to the wall and you can’t seem to figure out how to fill the gap, don’t worry! There are a few easy ways to fix this problem.
One way is to simply use caulk.
All you need to do is apply a generous amount of caulk in between the fridge and the wall, then smooth it out with your finger. This will create a tight seal that will prevent any air from escaping.
Another option is to use command strips.
These are adhesive strips that come in different sizes and strengths. You’ll want to choose one that’s strong enough to hold your fridge in place, but not so strong that it damages the wall. Simply adhere the command strip to the fridge, then press it firmly against the wall.
If you’re looking for something a little more permanent, you can always install shelf brackets. This will require drilling into both the fridge and the wall, so make sure you have all the necessary tools before starting. Once the brackets are in place, you can slide your fridge back against them and rest assured knowing it won’t be going anywhere!
Conclusion
If your fridge is too close to the wall, it might not be able to circulate air properly and could overheat. This could shorten its lifespan or cause it to break down entirely. So, how close can a fridge be to a wall?
Ideally, you should leave about an inch or two of space between the back of your fridge and the wall. This will ensure that air can circulate properly and keep your fridge running efficiently.