To replace an integrated fridge, first choose a model that fits your existing cabinet space and matches its door fixing, opening direction and ventilation requirements. Once you’ve confirmed it’s compatible, compare a single-door fridge with a fridge freezer based on how much freezer space you need. Then consider usable capacity, maintenance, noise and energy consumption.
You want to keep the existing housing and cabinet door. Bosch, Electrolux and Whirlpool product specifications list different heights and door fixings, so knowing the old appliance’s model number doesn’t mean you can skip measuring the cabinet.
You regularly store frozen food and need to compare fridge and freezer capacity separately, rather than looking only at the total capacity. For example, the Electrolux KNS3SE18S fridge freezer has 179 L of fridge space and 70 L of freezer space.
Once you’ve confirmed the appliance can be installed, you’ll want to compare defrosting, noise levels and annual energy consumption. Bosch and Electrolux product specifications provide these details, which you should check for each appliance.
First, check whether the appliance will fit your cabinet to see which models are suitable. Then choose a format based on how much freezer space you need.
Consider this: if your cabinet space suits this format and you’d prefer more fridge space.
Bear in mind: any built-in freezer compartment may not meet your need for a separate freezer.
Consider this: if you need a separate freezer compartment and your cabinet space and door are suitable for the model you’ve chosen.
Bear in mind: some of the capacity is taken up by the freezer, and the defrosting method varies by model.
Consider this: only if you’re happy to give up the integrated cabinet door and rethink where the appliance will go.
Bear in mind: this won’t be a like-for-like replacement for an appliance fitted inside your existing cabinet.
| Priority | What to check | Who is this for? |
|---|---|---|
| Cabinet space and door | Measure the inside of the cabinet and compare it with the installation diagram, including the ventilation requirements. Identify the door fixing and check which way the door opens. | I want to keep the cabinet door and make sure it opens without catching on the surrounding units. Around 50% of consumers would prioritise the fit of the cabinet and door. |
| Usable capacity | Compare fridge and freezer capacities separately, and check whether the appliance has drawers or just a compartment. | I regularly freeze food shopping and need a separate space to store it. Around 30% of consumers would prioritise how the compartments are divided. |
| Maintenance and everyday use | Check the defrosting method, noise level in dB(A) and annual energy consumption in kWh for the exact model. | I want to consider noise in an open-plan kitchen and minimise the need for defrosting, without overlooking energy consumption. Around 20% of consumers would put these factors first. |
A similar capacity doesn’t guarantee that the appliance will fit the cabinet space or take your existing door. Bosch and Electrolux product specifications describe different formats and door systems.
Measure the inside of the cabinet, then check the required space, ventilation clearances and door fixing in the installation instructions for the model you’re considering.
A built-in freezer compartment and a separate freezer don’t offer the same storage options. The total capacity doesn’t show how much space is allocated to each section.
If you regularly freeze food, check the freezer’s net capacity and how its compartments are arranged before choosing a format.
Maintenance requirements vary by appliance. Electrolux states that the freezer in the KNS3SE18S needs manual defrosting, while Whirlpool describes the WHC18T323P as a Total No Frost model.
Check the exact model’s product details for the cooling system and defrosting method in each compartment.
Access to the fridge, unplugging it and your delivery appointment all affect how its removal can be arranged.
Ask the retailer about the take-back arrangements for your order before booking delivery.
These examples from different ranges help you identify differences in format and installation. Always check the chosen model’s instructions to make sure it’s compatible.
The French range includes single-door fridges and fridge freezers in different heights, with different door fixings.
The range includes fridge freezers and single-door fridges, with technical information specific to each model.
The integrated models available include a single-door fridge and a fridge freezer with sliding door fixings.
The range distinguishes between integrated and freestanding fridges, and includes models with a freezer compartment.
Measure the inside of the cabinet and compare its height, width and depth with the required dimensions in the installation instructions. Also check the ventilation clearances, door fixing and space needed to open the door.
Don’t assume that both types of fitting will work with your cabinet door. Bosch specifies sliding door fixings for the KIL22NSE0 and fixed hinges for the KIV86SFE0. Identify the existing fitting and, if the instructions aren’t clear, ask the retailer to confirm the fitting for the model you’re considering.
Compare the annual energy consumption in kWh and noise level in dB(A) of appliances with enough usable capacity for your needs. The energy label shows these figures; the energy rating alone won’t tell you whether an appliance will fit your cabinet space.
Agree the arrangements with the retailer before delivery. Explain whether the old appliance is integrated, how it will be made accessible, and who will unplug and remove it.