You’re replacing a built-in appliance
You want to keep the existing housing and cabinet door. The internal dimensions, airflow and door-fixing system will determine which models are suitable.
Who is this option for?
You’re fitting out a small kitchen
You’re deciding between an under-counter housing, a taller built-in appliance and a different layout. The available height and the capacity you need will help guide your choice.
You’re considering a freestanding appliance
You can do without a matching cabinet door if the housing isn’t suitable. You’ll then need to find a spot where the appliance can be ventilated as set out in its manual.
What should you check before buying?
Built-in fridge
Consider this if: you’re keeping your kitchen cabinet door and can find a model that suits the housing, ventilation and door-fixing system.
Bear in mind: two similarly sized appliances may need different door systems, as shown by Bosch models with sliding hinges and fixed door hinges.
Freestanding fridge
Consider this if: the housing is too small or the cabinet door can’t be attached to the built-in model you want.
Bear in mind: the appliance will be visible, and its location must allow for the ventilation clearances specified for your chosen model.
| What matters to you | What to check | Who it’s for |
|---|---|---|
| Housing and ventilation | Measure the usable height, width and depth of the housing. Compare them with the model’s installation diagram and check that the cabinet leaves the specified air inlets and outlets unobstructed. | If I’m keeping my cabinet, I want the new appliance to fit without blocking airflow; around 36% of consumers would make this compatibility their top priority. |
| Cabinet door and fixing system | Identify the mechanism connecting the cabinet door to the old appliance, then check which type of fixing the new model requires. | I need to keep using my cabinet door after replacing the appliance: around 29% of consumers would put the door connection first when choosing. |
| Size and capacity | Compare the available height with the under-counter, tall or fridge-freezer format you’re considering, then check the stated capacity and whether it has a freezer compartment. | If I have a low housing or need a freezer compartment in the same appliance, I need to choose a format that suits how I use it; around 21% of consumers would put this need first. |
| Alternative location | If you decide against a built-in appliance, check the space available around the freestanding model and the clearances specified in its manual. | If the housing or door prevents the planned replacement, I’d rather look at another location; this would be the preferred option for around 14% of consumers. |
Mistakes to avoid when replacing your fridge
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Relying only on the cabinet’s width
The cabinet’s external width doesn’t tell you the housing’s three usable dimensions. The installation dimensions published by Electrolux for the KRD6DE18S4 and by Liebherr for the IRe 1780-PB show why depth and height matter too.
Take internal measurements and compare each one with the installation diagram for the model you’re considering.
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Assuming all door-fixing systems are the same
Sliding hinges, fixed door hinges and door-on-door hinges are different types of fitting. Don’t assume your existing cabinet door will be compatible with all of them.
Take a photo of the current door connection and ask for confirmation that it will work with the new fitting before choosing an appliance.
Changing the system may also mean adapting the cabinet door or its fittings.
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Installing a freestanding fridge as if it were built in
Ventilation requirements vary. Whirlpool specifies 5 cm above and 10 cm behind its freestanding appliances; a built-in model follows the instructions for its specific model.
If you’re changing the type of installation, allow for the clearances specified in the chosen appliance’s manual rather than enclosing it in the existing cabinet.
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Trying to make an undersized housing work
A matching cabinet door won’t make an incompatible housing suitable. Bosch suggests a freestanding model as an option when there isn’t room for a built-in appliance.
Once you’ve measured the cabinet, check whether an approved modification is possible or whether a properly ventilated freestanding model would work better in your kitchen.
Brands to consider by model
The ranges below show examples of different configurations to compare. Check the product details and manual for the specific model to see if it’s suitable for your kitchen.
Bosch
The French range includes built-in fridge-freezers with different door systems, depending on the model.
- Bosch specifies fixed door hinges for the KIV86SFE0 and sliding hinges for the KIV87NSE0.
- Don’t assume your cabinet door will be compatible just because it’s the same brand or fridge-freezer format.
Electrolux
The range includes under-counter built-in models and taller options to suit different housing heights.
- Electrolux specifies a housing of 1780 × 560 × 550 mm and sliding hinges for the KRD6DE18S4.
- These dimensions and fittings apply to this model, not to all Electrolux built-in appliances.
Whirlpool
The French range includes built-in larder fridges and fridge-freezers. Check the installation instructions for each model individually.
- Whirlpool specifies sliding hinges and a housing width of 56 cm for the WHSD184011A1FR.
- Don’t apply the housing width given for one Whirlpool model to another without checking its product details.
Liebherr
Some built-in models have detailed housing size ranges, which can help you check whether an existing cabinet is suitable.
- For the IRe 1780-PB, Liebherr specifies a housing 177.2 to 178.8 cm high, 56 to 57 cm wide and 55 cm deep.
- These measurements aren’t standard across all Liebherr models.
Joybuy products to suit your needs
Related products coming soon.
Frequently asked questions
How do I measure the housing for a built-in fridge?
Measure the usable internal height, width and depth, then compare each measurement with the installation dimensions for your chosen model. Don’t rely on the cabinet’s width alone or use the appliance’s external dimensions instead.
Can I keep my cabinet door if the new fridge has a different fixing system?
You’ll need to confirm that your cabinet door can be used with the proposed fitting. Bosch, Electrolux and Liebherr product details include models with sliding hinges and different types of door hinges. Check the existing connection and get confirmation before making any changes.
Can I put a freestanding fridge where the old built-in model was?
Yes, if you’re happy for the appliance to be visible and its new location allows for the clearances specified in its manual. Don’t assume you can enclose a freestanding fridge in the cabinet used for the old built-in model.
What should I do with my old fridge in France?
Arrange for it to be handled through the waste electrical and electronic equipment scheme described by the French Ministry for the Ecological Transition. If you’d like your old appliance taken away when the new one is delivered, check the seller’s terms before placing your order.