ᐅ How can I use IKEA BESTA units as a built-in solution for a beverage refrigerator?
Created on: 19 Aug 2020 14:03
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dustin44Hello everyone, I am considering modifying my IKEA Besta cabinet as a built-in solution for a beverage cooler. Specifically, I want to understand which dimensions and mounting options I need to keep in mind for the Besta system to ensure the cooler is securely installed, properly ventilated, and visually well integrated into the furniture. What are your experiences with this kind of conversion? What should I be aware of regarding the electrical connection and selecting a suitable refrigerator when using Besta as the base? Are there common tips for ventilation or installation that I should know about? I appreciate all advice, especially recommendations for built-in coolers that fit well!
Hey Dustin44, cool idea using the BESTA as a fridge conversion! 😎
I gave it a try, and one important thing is: the BESTA cabinet isn’t really designed for heavy appliances, so it’s best to build in an extra sturdy base panel to safely support the weight of your beverage fridge. Ventilation is crucial because otherwise the fridge can overheat – ideally leave some clearance all around or add ventilation slots in the back panel or on the sides.
When choosing the fridge, make sure it can be built-in and maybe has an integrated door that you can cover with a matching BESTA front. Otherwise, it looks a bit mismatched.
And regarding the connection: always consult a professional if you’re unsure, but having an easily accessible power outlet as close as possible will definitely make things easier.
Good luck and let us know how it turns out!
I gave it a try, and one important thing is: the BESTA cabinet isn’t really designed for heavy appliances, so it’s best to build in an extra sturdy base panel to safely support the weight of your beverage fridge. Ventilation is crucial because otherwise the fridge can overheat – ideally leave some clearance all around or add ventilation slots in the back panel or on the sides.
When choosing the fridge, make sure it can be built-in and maybe has an integrated door that you can cover with a matching BESTA front. Otherwise, it looks a bit mismatched.
And regarding the connection: always consult a professional if you’re unsure, but having an easily accessible power outlet as close as possible will definitely make things easier.
Good luck and let us know how it turns out!
Here is a brief guide on how to use your BESTA shelf as a built-in cabinet for a beverage refrigerator:
- Take the refrigerator’s dimensions and adjust the BESTA interior space accordingly, preferably leaving some clearance at the back and top
- Install a sturdy base panel made of MDF or particleboard to support the weight; don’t underestimate it
- Ensure proper ventilation: leave at least 5 cm (2 inches) of space at the bottom and top for air intake and exhaust, or alternatively drill ventilation slots
- Provide electrical connection, ideally with an easily accessible outlet inside the cabinet
- Before installation, check whether the refrigerator is designed for built-in use or if you need to modify the door
Common mistakes include insufficient ventilation and too tight installation dimensions, which can damage the refrigerator.
- Take the refrigerator’s dimensions and adjust the BESTA interior space accordingly, preferably leaving some clearance at the back and top
- Install a sturdy base panel made of MDF or particleboard to support the weight; don’t underestimate it
- Ensure proper ventilation: leave at least 5 cm (2 inches) of space at the bottom and top for air intake and exhaust, or alternatively drill ventilation slots
- Provide electrical connection, ideally with an easily accessible outlet inside the cabinet
- Before installation, check whether the refrigerator is designed for built-in use or if you need to modify the door
Common mistakes include insufficient ventilation and too tight installation dimensions, which can damage the refrigerator.
As an addition:
The IKEA BESTA carcass is standardly 128 cm (50 inches) wide and 38 cm (15 inches) deep, which is usually tight for most built-in refrigerators. Therefore, pay close attention to the depth, as beverage coolers typically require 40 cm (16 inches) or more.
Important for ventilation: Manufacturers usually recommend at least 50 mm (2 inches) of clearance from the walls for sufficient air circulation. You should consider this to ensure the compressor operates efficiently and the refrigerator’s lifespan is not compromised.
Regarding the connection: Use only refrigerators with a fixed power cord; do not use a long extension cable inside the furniture. Also, make sure the refrigerator has a built-in temperature sensor if it is to be placed inside a closed cabinet.
The IKEA BESTA carcass is standardly 128 cm (50 inches) wide and 38 cm (15 inches) deep, which is usually tight for most built-in refrigerators. Therefore, pay close attention to the depth, as beverage coolers typically require 40 cm (16 inches) or more.
Important for ventilation: Manufacturers usually recommend at least 50 mm (2 inches) of clearance from the walls for sufficient air circulation. You should consider this to ensure the compressor operates efficiently and the refrigerator’s lifespan is not compromised.
Regarding the connection: Use only refrigerators with a fixed power cord; do not use a long extension cable inside the furniture. Also, make sure the refrigerator has a built-in temperature sensor if it is to be placed inside a closed cabinet.
raquel52 schrieb:
Make sure to pay attention to the depth, as beverage refrigerators usually require 40cm (16 inches) or more. This brings me to an important point: The BESTA cabinet is popular but not necessarily ideal for built-in refrigerators due to its depth. If you want to be sure, definitely check the back panel. In many BESTA models, the back panel is fixed, which can make ventilation difficult.
You should also consider the load capacity of the cabinet body— the bottom panel alone offers limited support since the side panels also need to bear the weight. It is advisable to reinforce the cabinet further or use a sturdy built-in frame system.
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