Double Door Bar Fridges — 2-Door Buying Guide Australia 2026
Why Choose a Double Door Bar Fridge?
A double door bar fridge gives you something a single door unit simply cannot: separation. Whether that means keeping your reds and whites at different temperatures, or just losing less cold air every time you grab a beer, two doors change the way a bar fridge works in practice.
There are three genuine advantages worth paying attention to:
- Dual zone temperature control. Many 2-door models run independent compressors or split cooling systems, letting you hold one side at 2°C for beer and the other at 12°C for wine. You cannot replicate this with a single door unit.
- Less cold air loss. Opening one door exposes only half the cabinet. If you are reaching for drinks throughout a session, this adds up — your compressor runs less, your drinks stay colder, and your power bill stays lower.
- More usable capacity. Double door fridges in the 165L to 274L range offer serious storage without the footprint of a full-sized unit. The split layout also makes it easier to organise stock by type.
If you are fitting out a home bar, outdoor kitchen, or commercial under-bench setup, a 2-door bar fridge is worth the step up from a standard single door.
1-Door vs 2-Door Bar Fridges: What Actually Changes?
The choice between a single door bar fridge and a double door model comes down to how you use it, not just how much you store.
- Temperature flexibility. Single door units hold one temperature across the entire cabinet. Double door units with dual zone capability let you run two independent temperatures — critical if you stock both beer and wine.
- Cold air retention. Every time you open a single door fridge, the entire contents are exposed to ambient air. With a 2-door model, you only open the side you need. In outdoor or high-traffic environments, this makes a measurable difference to running efficiency.
- Price. Double door models sit higher on the price scale — typically $1,300 to $2,200 compared with $600 to $1,200 for a comparable single door. The premium buys you dual zone capability, larger capacity, and in some cases outdoor-rated construction.
- Width. Two doors means a wider unit. Measure your cavity or bench opening carefully — most 2-door bar fridges run 550mm to 600mm wide, compared with 380mm to 500mm for single door models.
- Use case fit. If you only drink beer and need a compact unit, a single door is fine. If you entertain, stock wine alongside beer, or need serious capacity for a commercial setup, the double door earns its place.
Top Double Door Bar Fridges by Use Case
Best for Home Bars: Schmick JC165 — 165L Dual Zone
The Schmick JC165 is purpose-built for home bars that stock both beer and wine. At 165 litres, it is the most compact dual zone option in the range, with independent temperature controls for each side.
- Capacity: 165 litres
- Noise: 43dB — quiet enough for open-plan living areas
- Zones: Independent left/right temperature control
- Price: $1,365.15
If your bar serves a mix of lagers, craft beers, and wine, this is the entry point into dual zone territory without overspending on capacity you do not need.
Best for Outdoor Use: Schmick SK190-SS — 190L Outdoor 2 Door
The Schmick SK190-SS is rated for outdoor installation — meaning it handles Australian heat, humidity, and direct sunlight exposure that would kill a standard indoor unit.
- Capacity: 190 litres
- Noise: 49dB — louder than indoor models, but normal for outdoor-rated compressors
- Build: Stainless steel, weather-sealed, UV-resistant
- Price: $1,621.65
If you are building an outdoor bar or alfresco kitchen, do not put an indoor-rated fridge outside. The SK190-SS is engineered for it.
Best for Beer and Wine: Schmick JC190-GG — 190L Heated Dual Zone
The Schmick JC190-GG takes dual zone a step further with heated glass technology — eliminating condensation on the doors, which is a real issue in humid environments or air-conditioned rooms.
- Capacity: 190 litres
- Noise: 44dB
- Special feature: Heated glass doors prevent fogging and condensation
- Zones: Independent dual zone — beer cold, wine cellar temp
- Price: $2,153.65
This is the premium pick for serious home bars and hospitality venues where presentation matters. No foggy glass, no guessing what is inside.
Best for Under-Bench Installation: Schmick SK245-HD — 274L
The Schmick SK245-HD is the largest double door bar fridge in the range at 274 litres, designed to slot under a standard bench height.
- Capacity: 274 litres
- Noise: 43dB
- Height: Designed for under-bench fit (check your cavity — standard 850mm bench height)
- Price: $1,754.65
If you need maximum storage in an under-bench format — whether that is a home bar build, a café counter, or a commercial kitchen — the SK245-HD delivers the most litres per dollar in the 2-door category.
Best All-Rounder: Schmick SK206-HD — 233L Twin Door
The Schmick SK206-HD sits in the middle of the range — 233 litres, twin door, low-height design. It works equally well in a home bar, games room, or small commercial setting.
- Capacity: 233 litres
- Noise: 43dB
- Design: Low-height twin door — fits under most benches
- Price: $1,631.15
If you do not need outdoor rating or heated glass but want solid capacity with twin door convenience, the SK206-HD is the sensible middle ground.
Dimensions and Fitting Guide
Double door bar fridges are wider than single door models. Before you buy, measure your space and account for ventilation clearance.
Key fitting rules
- Width clearance. Allow at least 20mm on each side for airflow. If your cavity is 600mm wide, your fridge should be no wider than 560mm.
- Depth. Most 2-door bar fridges are 500mm to 530mm deep. Add 50mm for the power cord and rear ventilation gap.
- Height. Under-bench models are designed for standard 850mm bench height, but always confirm the exact unit height including feet or castors.
- Door swing. Two doors means two swing arcs. In a tight space, check that both doors can open at least 90 degrees without hitting walls, cabinetry, or each other.
- Ventilation. Built-in installations need front-venting models or adequate rear/side clearance. Never box in a fridge without checking the manufacturer's ventilation requirements — blocked airflow kills compressors.
If you are installing into cabinetry, request the spec sheet for your chosen model before committing to a build. A 10mm miscalculation can turn a clean install into a return.
Double Door Bar Fridge Comparison
| Model | Capacity | Best For | Noise | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Schmick JC165 | 165L | Home bar, beer & wine | 43dB | $1,365.15 |
| Schmick SK190-SS | 190L | Outdoor / alfresco | 49dB | $1,621.65 |
| Schmick JC190-GG | 190L | Beer & wine, premium | 44dB | $2,153.65 |
| Schmick SK206-HD | 233L | All-rounder | 43dB | $1,631.15 |
| Schmick SK245-HD | 274L | Under-bench, high capacity | 43dB | $1,754.65 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are double door bar fridges more energy efficient than single door models?
Generally, yes. Opening one door exposes only half the cabinet to warm air, so the compressor works less to recover temperature. Over a year of regular use, this adds up to lower running costs compared with a same-sized single door unit.
Can I install a 2-door bar fridge under a standard kitchen bench?
Most models in this range are designed for under-bench installation at standard 850mm bench height. The SK245-HD and SK206-HD are both low-height designs built for this purpose. Always confirm the exact height with feet or castors before committing to cabinetry.
What is the difference between dual zone and twin door?
Twin door means the fridge has two glass doors — but it may still run a single cooling zone across the whole cabinet. Dual zone means each side has independent temperature control. If you need to store beer and wine at different temperatures, look specifically for dual zone models like the JC165 or JC190-GG.
Can I use a double door bar fridge outdoors?
Only if the model is outdoor-rated. The Schmick SK190-SS is specifically built for outdoor use with weather-sealed construction and UV-resistant materials. Putting an indoor-rated fridge outside — even under a covered patio — will void the warranty and shorten the compressor life dramatically.
How loud are double door bar fridges?
Most models in this range run at 43-44dB, which is roughly the level of a quiet conversation. The outdoor-rated SK190-SS is slightly louder at 49dB due to its more powerful compressor. All of these are suitable for open-plan living areas — you will hear the compressor cycle on and off, but it will not dominate a room.
Browse the full range of double door bar fridges or compare with single door models to find the right fit for your setup.
Double Door Bar Fridges — 2-Door Buying Guide Australia 2026
Why Choose a Double Door Bar Fridge?
A double door bar fridge gives you something a single door unit simply cannot: separation. Whether that means keeping your reds and whites at different temperatures, or just losing less cold air every time you grab a beer, two doors change the way a bar fridge works in practice.
There are three genuine advantages worth paying attention to:
- Dual zone temperature control. Many 2-door models run independent compressors or split cooling systems, letting you hold one side at 2°C for beer and the other at 12°C for wine. You cannot replicate this with a single door unit.
- Less cold air loss. Opening one door exposes only half the cabinet. If you are reaching for drinks throughout a session, this adds up — your compressor runs less, your drinks stay colder, and your power bill stays lower.
- More usable capacity. Double door fridges in the 165L to 274L range offer serious storage without the footprint of a full-sized unit. The split layout also makes it easier to organise stock by type.
If you are fitting out a home bar, outdoor kitchen, or commercial under-bench setup, a 2-door bar fridge is worth the step up from a standard single door.
1-Door vs 2-Door Bar Fridges: What Actually Changes?
The choice between a single door bar fridge and a double door model comes down to how you use it, not just how much you store.
- Temperature flexibility. Single door units hold one temperature across the entire cabinet. Double door units with dual zone capability let you run two independent temperatures — critical if you stock both beer and wine.
- Cold air retention. Every time you open a single door fridge, the entire contents are exposed to ambient air. With a 2-door model, you only open the side you need. In outdoor or high-traffic environments, this makes a measurable difference to running efficiency.
- Price. Double door models sit higher on the price scale — typically $1,300 to $2,200 compared with $600 to $1,200 for a comparable single door. The premium buys you dual zone capability, larger capacity, and in some cases outdoor-rated construction.
- Width. Two doors means a wider unit. Measure your cavity or bench opening carefully — most 2-door bar fridges run 550mm to 600mm wide, compared with 380mm to 500mm for single door models.
- Use case fit. If you only drink beer and need a compact unit, a single door is fine. If you entertain, stock wine alongside beer, or need serious capacity for a commercial setup, the double door earns its place.
Top Double Door Bar Fridges by Use Case
Best for Home Bars: Schmick JC165 — 165L Dual Zone
The Schmick JC165 is purpose-built for home bars that stock both beer and wine. At 165 litres, it is the most compact dual zone option in the range, with independent temperature controls for each side.
- Capacity: 165 litres
- Noise: 43dB — quiet enough for open-plan living areas
- Zones: Independent left/right temperature control
- Price: $1,365.15
If your bar serves a mix of lagers, craft beers, and wine, this is the entry point into dual zone territory without overspending on capacity you do not need.
Best for Outdoor Use: Schmick SK190-SS — 190L Outdoor 2 Door
The Schmick SK190-SS is rated for outdoor installation — meaning it handles Australian heat, humidity, and direct sunlight exposure that would kill a standard indoor unit.
- Capacity: 190 litres
- Noise: 49dB — louder than indoor models, but normal for outdoor-rated compressors
- Build: Stainless steel, weather-sealed, UV-resistant
- Price: $1,621.65
If you are building an outdoor bar or alfresco kitchen, do not put an indoor-rated fridge outside. The SK190-SS is engineered for it.
Best for Beer and Wine: Schmick JC190-GG — 190L Heated Dual Zone
The Schmick JC190-GG takes dual zone a step further with heated glass technology — eliminating condensation on the doors, which is a real issue in humid environments or air-conditioned rooms.
- Capacity: 190 litres
- Noise: 44dB
- Special feature: Heated glass doors prevent fogging and condensation
- Zones: Independent dual zone — beer cold, wine cellar temp
- Price: $2,153.65
This is the premium pick for serious home bars and hospitality venues where presentation matters. No foggy glass, no guessing what is inside.
Best for Under-Bench Installation: Schmick SK245-HD — 274L
The Schmick SK245-HD is the largest double door bar fridge in the range at 274 litres, designed to slot under a standard bench height.
- Capacity: 274 litres
- Noise: 43dB
- Height: Designed for under-bench fit (check your cavity — standard 850mm bench height)
- Price: $1,754.65
If you need maximum storage in an under-bench format — whether that is a home bar build, a café counter, or a commercial kitchen — the SK245-HD delivers the most litres per dollar in the 2-door category.
Best All-Rounder: Schmick SK206-HD — 233L Twin Door
The Schmick SK206-HD sits in the middle of the range — 233 litres, twin door, low-height design. It works equally well in a home bar, games room, or small commercial setting.
- Capacity: 233 litres
- Noise: 43dB
- Design: Low-height twin door — fits under most benches
- Price: $1,631.15
If you do not need outdoor rating or heated glass but want solid capacity with twin door convenience, the SK206-HD is the sensible middle ground.
Dimensions and Fitting Guide
Double door bar fridges are wider than single door models. Before you buy, measure your space and account for ventilation clearance.
Key fitting rules
- Width clearance. Allow at least 20mm on each side for airflow. If your cavity is 600mm wide, your fridge should be no wider than 560mm.
- Depth. Most 2-door bar fridges are 500mm to 530mm deep. Add 50mm for the power cord and rear ventilation gap.
- Height. Under-bench models are designed for standard 850mm bench height, but always confirm the exact unit height including feet or castors.
- Door swing. Two doors means two swing arcs. In a tight space, check that both doors can open at least 90 degrees without hitting walls, cabinetry, or each other.
- Ventilation. Built-in installations need front-venting models or adequate rear/side clearance. Never box in a fridge without checking the manufacturer's ventilation requirements — blocked airflow kills compressors.
If you are installing into cabinetry, request the spec sheet for your chosen model before committing to a build. A 10mm miscalculation can turn a clean install into a return.
Double Door Bar Fridge Comparison
| Model | Capacity | Best For | Noise | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Schmick JC165 | 165L | Home bar, beer & wine | 43dB | $1,365.15 |
| Schmick SK190-SS | 190L | Outdoor / alfresco | 49dB | $1,621.65 |
| Schmick JC190-GG | 190L | Beer & wine, premium | 44dB | $2,153.65 |
| Schmick SK206-HD | 233L | All-rounder | 43dB | $1,631.15 |
| Schmick SK245-HD | 274L | Under-bench, high capacity | 43dB | $1,754.65 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are double door bar fridges more energy efficient than single door models?
Generally, yes. Opening one door exposes only half the cabinet to warm air, so the compressor works less to recover temperature. Over a year of regular use, this adds up to lower running costs compared with a same-sized single door unit.
Can I install a 2-door bar fridge under a standard kitchen bench?
Most models in this range are designed for under-bench installation at standard 850mm bench height. The SK245-HD and SK206-HD are both low-height designs built for this purpose. Always confirm the exact height with feet or castors before committing to cabinetry.
What is the difference between dual zone and twin door?
Twin door means the fridge has two glass doors — but it may still run a single cooling zone across the whole cabinet. Dual zone means each side has independent temperature control. If you need to store beer and wine at different temperatures, look specifically for dual zone models like the JC165 or JC190-GG.
Can I use a double door bar fridge outdoors?
Only if the model is outdoor-rated. The Schmick SK190-SS is specifically built for outdoor use with weather-sealed construction and UV-resistant materials. Putting an indoor-rated fridge outside — even under a covered patio — will void the warranty and shorten the compressor life dramatically.
How loud are double door bar fridges?
Most models in this range run at 43-44dB, which is roughly the level of a quiet conversation. The outdoor-rated SK190-SS is slightly louder at 49dB due to its more powerful compressor. All of these are suitable for open-plan living areas — you will hear the compressor cycle on and off, but it will not dominate a room.
Browse the full range of double door bar fridges or compare with single door models to find the right fit for your setup.