ᐅ Built-in Refrigerator Installation in a Fitted Kitchen – Any Tips?

Hello, we have an old built-in refrigerator in the kitchen. Now we want to remove the refrigerator along with the built-in cabinet and use a freestanding refrigerator in the niche instead. After removal, there is about exactly 60 cm (24 inches) of space available. Question: will a freestanding refrigerator with a width of 60 cm (24 inches) fit there, including door clearance?
Thanks and best regards, Ashley

In some cases, it may be necessary to position it in the gap so that the front slightly protrudes. You should check the drawings on the manufacturer's website regarding the door opening angle and clearance.

It depends on the door opening mechanism.
If you have a kitchen that is open to the living area, keep in mind that freestanding appliances are generally somewhat noisier than built-in appliances.

Just visit an electronics store like MM and take a look at the door mechanisms of refrigerators. Don’t forget to bring a tape measure!

Freestanding refrigerators usually have door hinges designed for both sides, so the door swing can be adjusted as needed. Freestanding units can also be slightly smaller than built-in refrigerators; mine measures 547mm wide by 558mm deep (21.5 inches by 22 inches).

Depending on whether suitable end panels are available for the kitchen, I would recommend removing the old refrigerator cabinet altogether. This looks better, and a freestanding refrigerator also uses less electricity because heat dissipation is more efficient.

ashley schrieb:
Now we want to remove the refrigerator along with the built-in cabinet and use a freestanding fridge in the niche.

That’s exactly what he wants, to remove the old built-in cabinet. However, since there are cabinets on both sides, the opening mechanism of the freestanding fridge needs to be taken into account.