Start by identifying what’s missing: a portable hob to add a cooking zone, a combination microwave to reheat food and cook using the functions it offers, a multicooker for certain one-pot dishes, or a small fridge to add extra chilled storage. In a rented kitchen, measure the space the appliance will take up, including the clearance required in the instructions, and check the connection too. “Freestanding” doesn’t mean easy to put away after use.
If your kitchen doesn’t have a working hob, a portable one lets you add a cooking zone without fitting it into the worktop. For induction, check that your pans are compatible and follow the connection instructions for the model you choose.
A freestanding combination microwave can offer several cooking modes, depending on the model. Measure its depth and the clearance needed for ventilation before setting aside space on your worktop.
A multicooker is suited to certain recipes prepared in its cooking pot, while a small fridge can help if you need more chilled storage. The latter takes up permanent floor space, even though it isn’t built in.
Start with the function you’re missing, then check each appliance against the space and power supply you actually have.
| Priority | What to check | What I need |
|---|---|---|
| Rented home | Check that installation doesn’t require a recess, fixings or changes to the existing fittings. The French National Consumer Institute notes that, in France, alterations to rented premises or equipment require the landlord’s written permission. | I want to add to my kitchen without making alterations to the property. |
| Space and portability | Compare the width, depth, height and weight, then allow for the clearances specified in the instructions. A single-zone hob, a freestanding microwave and a fridge each take up a different part of the kitchen. | I need to keep the worktop usable and want to know whether I can put the appliance away between meals. |
| Function you need | For a cooking zone, check the type of hob and which pans are compatible. For oven-style cooking, check the exact functions. A multicooker is designed for certain one-pot dishes, while a small fridge adds chilled storage. | I’d rather fill the gap that’s affecting my meals than add an appliance that duplicates functions I already have. |
| Positioning and connection | Check the power rating, plug type, required surface and clearance around the model in its instructions. Whirlpool, for example, requires its freestanding microwaves to be placed on a flat surface with ventilation openings kept clear. | Having enough space isn’t all that matters: I also need to be able to position and connect the appliance in line with its instructions. |
According to Whirlpool, the MCP349WH combination microwave measures 52 × 30,1 × 49,4 cm and weighs 18,6 kg, so it could take up a significant amount of worktop space.
Measure the space it will occupy and the route you’ll need to move it. Compare the external dimensions and weight, not just the capacity in litres.
An induction hob needs compatible pans. If the ones you use aren’t suitable, the hob on its own won’t meet your cooking needs.
Check which pans you want to keep and, if necessary, compare the hob with a portable model that uses a different technology.
Replacing incompatible pans is an extra expense, and you’ll need somewhere to store them too.
Whirlpool says the ventilation openings on a freestanding microwave must not be blocked. A space that’s only just big enough for the appliance may therefore be unsuitable.
Follow the clearances specified in the instructions for your model. Keep the appliance’s grilles and the kitchen’s ventilation openings clear.
A small fridge provides extra chilled storage, but it doesn’t give you a cooking zone or oven function. Candy describes the CNOQ2S58EB as freestanding; it measures 545 × 562 × 850 mm and needs floor space.
First check whether your existing fridge capacity is insufficient. If your meals are mainly limited by the lack of cooking facilities, consider an appliance designed for that purpose instead.
These examples show different appliance types. The specifications below apply to the models named, not to every product in each brand’s range.
A brand to consider when looking for a freestanding combination microwave with several cooking modes, without the need for a built-in installation.
A brand to compare if you’re looking for a portable induction hob or a combination microwave.
A brand to consider for one-pot cooking if these types of recipes suit your household’s meals.
A brand to consider if your kitchen needs more fridge space rather than more cooking options.
These models suit three needs in a small rented kitchen: adding a portable cooking zone, having a microwave on the worktop or preparing certain recipes in a cooking pot. Compare their specifications with the space, cookware and power supply you have available.
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If you need an extra cooking zone without a built-in hob, check that your pans are suitable for induction. The model name lists 8 power levels, 7 preset programmes and compatibility with pans measuring 12 to 26 cm. Measure the space you’ll need and check the connection instructions before buying.
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This freestanding microwave is primarily for reheating food without a built-in installation. Its name lists a 25 L capacity and 1 000 W power rating. If you also want oven-style cooking, check the exact functions and the ventilation clearances required in its instructions.
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Another freestanding option for reheating food without a built-in installation, the VIO7 is listed as having a 23 L capacity and 900 W power rating. Compare its dimensions with your available space and check the instructions for ventilation requirements. Don’t assume it offers all the functions of an oven.
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Worth considering if one-pot dishes suit your meals, rather than as a replacement for everything you use a hob or oven for. This model is described as a 2 L multicooker. Check how much clear space it needs and make sure its connection is suitable for your kitchen.
Don’t assume you’re allowed to install one if this means altering the rented property or its fixtures. In France, the National Consumer Institute notes that such alterations require the landlord’s written permission. Get approval for your plans before adding a recess, fitting fixings or modifying the installation.
Not necessarily. “Freestanding” means it isn’t built in; it doesn’t tell you how heavy or bulky it is. Whirlpool says its MCP349WH combination microwave weighs 18,6 kg and measures 52 × 30,1 × 49,4 cm. Always compare the dimensions and weight of the model you’re considering with the space you have.
Only if the model’s instructions allow it and you can meet its ventilation requirements. Whirlpool recommends placing its freestanding microwaves on a flat surface and says their ventilation openings must not be blocked.
Check the power rating, plug type and instructions, then make sure they’re suitable for your home’s electrical installation. Don’t assume an extension lead is suitable. For example, Severin lists a power rating of 2 000 W for its KP 1071 induction hob. If you’re unsure or notice a problem with the installation, ask a qualified professional for advice.
No. Keeping the appliance area clear shouldn’t come at the expense of ventilation in your home. The French Environment and Energy Management Agency (ADEME) explains that mechanical ventilation continuously removes moisture and pollutants. Keep the appliance’s own ventilation openings clear too.