To keep your existing cabinet, first choose between an integrated fridge and an integrated fridge freezer, depending on whether you need a freezer. Then check the cabinet dimensions, door fixing, ventilation and opening requirements in the model’s instructions. Capacity, noise and energy use can’t make up for an appliance that doesn’t fit your kitchen unit. A freestanding appliance means giving up the integrated look.
Measure the inside of the housing and check where the ventilation openings are, how the door is fixed and how much room it needs to open. Que Choisir recommends comparing the cabinet’s internal dimensions with the appliance’s installation instructions.
An integrated fridge freezer may suit your needs, provided its cabinet space, doors and fixing system are compatible with your kitchen unit. Check the capacity of the fridge and freezer compartments separately.
A freestanding fridge is only an option if you’re prepared to give up the current integrated setup and can allow for the clearances specified for the new appliance.
The right format depends on whether you need freezer space, but whichever option you choose must first fit the kitchen layout you plan to keep.
Choose this: if the cabinet space and door suit this format, and a small freezer compartment or a separate freezer will meet your needs.
Bear in mind: depending on the model, freezer space may be limited or unavailable.
Choose this: if you want a separate freezer compartment and your kitchen unit can accommodate the model you’ve chosen.
Bear in mind: a fridge freezer may need a taller or wider cabinet space than your old appliance.
Consider this: only if you’re prepared to abandon the integrated setup and change your kitchen layout.
Bear in mind: you won’t be able to keep the existing door, and you’ll need to allow for the clearances required for a freestanding appliance.
| Criteria | What to check | Who should prioritise this? |
|---|---|---|
| Cabinet space and ventilation | Compare the internal width, height and depth with the model’s cabinet dimensions; check the airflow openings specified in its instructions. | I want to keep my kitchen unit without making it difficult to fit the appliance or blocking its ventilation. Around 36% of consumers would put the cabinet space and ventilation first. |
| Door and opening | Check whether the door uses a sliding or fixed-hinge system, then confirm which way it opens and how far. | I need to keep my kitchen door in place and be able to remove the drawers without them hitting another unit. Around 29% of consumers would prioritise the fixing system and door opening. |
| Fresh and frozen food | Compare the capacity of both compartments and check whether there’s a freezer compartment or a separate freezer. | I buy frozen food, so I’m looking for a layout that gives it enough room without compromising on fresh food storage. Around 21% of consumers would put this layout first. |
| Everyday use and your old appliance | For compatible models, compare annual energy consumption and noise levels; ask the retailer about collection arrangements. | Noise matters in my kitchen every day, and I also want to plan for the removal of my old fridge. Around 14% of consumers would put these considerations first. |
A fridge’s dimensions aren’t the same as the dimensions of the cabinet space it needs. For the KRD6DE18S4, Electrolux lists appliance dimensions of 1772 × 546 × 549 mm and cabinet dimensions of 1780 × 560 × 550 mm.
Measure the inside of the cabinet in all three dimensions and compare your measurements with the installation diagram before choosing a model.
Que Choisir distinguishes between fixed-hinge and sliding-door systems. A model described as having sliding hinges isn’t, by itself, proof that your kitchen door will fit.
Check the current fixing system and consult the new model’s instructions for requirements concerning the door and how it’s attached.
You may need to adapt the door or arrange professional installation if the fixing systems differ.
An integrated appliance needs the ventilation route specified for its installation. Blocking a grille or airflow opening is not suitable for this type of setup.
Check the lower and upper openings in the cabinet and compare them with the requirements in the instructions for the exact model.
A freestanding model isn’t a like-for-like replacement for an appliance hidden behind a kitchen door. It needs the clearances specified for its installation.
Only choose this option if you’re happy to change your kitchen layout and can follow the instructions for the model you’ve chosen.
Bosch offers single-door integrated fridges in a range of heights. The KIL42NSE0 is listed by the brand with a freezer compartment and sliding hinges.
The range includes single-door fridges and integrated fridge freezers. Electrolux specifies cabinet dimensions of 1780 × 560 × 550 mm for the KRD6DE18S4.
Whirlpool offers single-door fridges and integrated fridge freezers, including the ARG7342FR and SP408102FR.
Measure the internal width, height and depth of the cabinet, then compare them with the cabinet dimensions in the instructions—not just the appliance’s external dimensions. Also check the ventilation openings, how the kitchen door is fixed and the space needed to open the door and remove the drawers.
No. Sliding hinges don’t guarantee that the appliance will be compatible with your kitchen door. Que Choisir distinguishes between sliding and fixed-hinge systems, so check your current setup and the requirements in the instructions for the model you’re considering.
No. A reversible door only lets you change which way it opens, where the model and kitchen unit allow this. Also check how far the door actually opens and how much room you need to remove the drawers. Que Choisir notes that some compartments need the door to open more than 90°.
Installation must follow the instructions for the exact model, particularly for the kitchen door and ventilation. Bosch recommends using a professional for integrated installation. If you’re unsure about the fixing system or the kitchen unit, have the installation checked rather than forcing the appliance into the cabinet.