How to build a refrigerator into a kitchen cabinet: step-by-step instructions

Recent trends in interior design increasingly dictate that owners of houses and apartments abandon luxurious styles, choosing more minimalist and restrained ones. Such trends have not spared kitchens either. The first thing that catches your eye when looking at photos of modern headsets and pencil cases is a large number of built-in and hidden household appliances.

It may seem that it is unrealistic to implement such projects in an ordinary “Khrushchev” apartment or small-sized new building. But if you know all the nuances of choosing and placing such equipment, you can easily arrange such a kitchen in any room. Next, we will talk about installing a built-in refrigerator.

What is the difference between a built-in refrigerator and a regular one?

A built-in refrigerator is a special design that differs from the classic model in some details and characteristics. The main distinguishing feature of such a device is that it requires a special cabinet to accommodate it. The dimensions of the furniture attribute are carefully selected for the specific model of the refrigeration unit. It is manufactured according to the dimensions specified in the product passport. It is very important that the depth of the cabinet and refrigerator are identical. The equipment is installed on the bottom of the cabinet; in some cases, it is recommended to install the device in a furniture module without a bottom.

The refrigerator doors are connected to the furniture doors using special clamps. It should be noted that the design of a conventional refrigeration unit does not allow this. Also, the built-in system is characterized by increased thermal insulation, good ventilation, and it meets the highest fire safety requirements.

Underwater rocks

To avoid possible refusal of warranty repairs, you should carefully read all the points in the manual included with the unit upon sale. The installation instructions for a built-in refrigerator contain a list of supplied fasteners, the sequence of use of parts, requirements for installation work and operation of the installed device.

Facts of violation of operating techniques that lead to refusal of repairs under warranty may be:

The use of heavy decorative panels leading to improper distribution of load between the appliance door and the cabinet.
No gap or “podium” at the bottom of the niche for sufficient heat transfer.
Place the device near heating devices (under the oven, near the microwave, etc.).
Connecting the device to the electrical network through an outlet that does not comply with the requirements of the instructions.

If the buyer is confident in his own abilities and if he wants to connect the built-in refrigerator with his own hands, regardless of the brand (LG, Atlant, Liebherr or Electrolux), he should plan from an hour to two free time, be patient and careful when working. Before starting installation, you should familiarize yourself with the proposed video demonstrating the step-by-step placement of the device, securing the facade, connecting and checking its functionality.

Refrigeration equipment is an essential component of any kitchen. It can be made as a separate device, or built directly into the headset. To install a built-in refrigerator without problems, you need to familiarize yourself with the nuances of this procedure and requirements.

Advantages and disadvantages of installing a refrigeration unit

The advantages of refrigeration equipment hidden behind a furniture door include:

Aesthetic interior. Not all interior styles can accommodate appliances with an enameled or steel surface. It looks especially ugly in classic, ethnic interior styles. By hiding this necessary element of the kitchen behind the facade, we can create a unique design in which every detail corresponds to the overall style and effectively fits into the furniture ensemble.

In addition, electrical wires will be securely hidden, which is also very important for creating an attractive environment.
Ergonomics . The equipment can be placed at any height and anywhere. This is very important for the correct organization of the “work triangle”. To reduce cooking time, experts recommend minimizing the distance between the three main elements of the kitchen: the refrigerator, stove and work surface. Hidden technology allows you to create an ergonomic space and rationally use every corner.
Silence . Due to the fact that the unit is located in a box, the noise level is significantly reduced. This is also facilitated by reliable fixation of the equipment to the body, as reproduced vibrations are damped.
Economical . As you know, the design of the unit is characterized by increased thermal insulation. This is facilitated by a protective layer that isolates the device from the external environment. Thanks to this, the refrigerator operates in economical mode and consumes less energy.
Easy care . Hidden side walls and wires do not need to be cleaned, which significantly saves time on maintaining the kitchen appliance.
Large selection of models . The buyer is offered various product variations to choose from. Household appliances can be built under the countertop, mounted in an island or other place convenient for use. There are various models of devices: with a bottom, side, top freezer or without it at all. Each buyer has the opportunity to select individual equipment parameters and its configuration.

Unfortunately, there are some disadvantages of “hidden” appliances, which should also be taken into account when planning your kitchen space:

Small useful capacity of internal chambers . Compared to conventional models, built-in ones have a smaller capacity with the same dimensions of the equipment.
Inconvenient controls . Settings cannot be adjusted when the door is closed.
Impressive value. Not only does the device cost more, you will also have to pay more for installation of the product.

Selecting a location

The location for installation should be selected based on the specifics of the selected model of equipment. First of all, you need to take into account the dimensions of the built-in refrigerator plus the dimensions of the cabinet for it. Remember that the main goal is to save free space in the kitchen, so take into account that the future refrigerator should not interfere with free movement around the room.

Pay attention not only to the appearance of the refrigerator, but also to the design of the cabinet underneath it, because it will become an integral part of your kitchen set. Therefore, choose colors and textures that match the rest of the furniture.

Just like stationary appliances, built-in refrigerators are not recommended to be placed in close proximity to heating appliances and open fire.

Types and models of built-in refrigerators

The modern market of household appliances offers many options for kitchen “helpers”. Depending on the location of the unit relative to the furniture body, the following types of devices are distinguished:

Fully built-in . The appliances are hidden behind the facade of the kitchen; the presence of a refrigeration unit can only be guessed by a special grille.
Partially hidden.

The device is completely “recessed” in the box, only the doors or control panel are visible from the outside.

Depending on the number of cameras there are:

Single chamber models . These are products without a freezer, or it is located inside the main chamber. Usually these are small models that can be easily integrated into the bottom row of a kitchen set. Often a dishwasher or washing machine is installed at this level.
Two-chamber . These are separate refrigerator and freezer compartments, they are equipped with separate doors.
Multi-chamber . They consist of several sections, in each of which the optimal temperature is set. Typically, cameras are not located vertically, but next to each other. The doors of such models open in the same way as the doors of a hinged cabinet.

Depending on the location of household appliances, there are models designed for installation:

Under the table top . An ideal solution for small kitchens where every centimeter plays a decisive role. To save space, the unit is mounted under the dining table. This non-standard solution ensures a comfortable and convenient pastime in the kitchen.
On the work surface . Usually these are small-sized devices, the height of which does not exceed 85 cm. As a rule, offices, cottages and small kitchens are equipped with such devices.
In the closet . The most common type is suitable for kitchens of various sizes and configurations. It is a column that fits perfectly into the overall style of the interior.
On the island . An interesting option that is preferred by owners of spacious kitchens. In this case, all equipment is located in the center of the room. This is where the work area and washing area are organized. This area is also used as a bar counter. It is very convenient to place a refrigerator here in order to provide convenient and quick access to food and drinks.
In a niche . The method is suitable for rooms where there is a well-ventilated corner. In this case, all work is carried out at the initial stage of repair.

Expert advice

So, installing a built-in refrigerator in a pencil case is not an easy and time-consuming process.
To complete the job correctly, you need to take a responsible approach to studying the installation instructions, follow the recommendations of experienced specialists and not “do-it-yourself.” The most common mistakes when installing built-in refrigeration cabinets yourself:

The use of massive decorative panels that create additional load on the refrigerator and front door.
Failure to comply with the rules regarding the presence of ventilation gaps and the lower ventilation shelf.
Placing the refrigerator near heating appliances.
Incorrect connection of the device to the electrical network.

In case of improper functioning or complete breakdown of the refrigerator due to such errors, specialists will not accept the device for repair under warranty. You will lose both time and money (on repairs at your own expense, buying a new refrigerator, calling technicians and new installation). If you are not confident in your skills and strengths, it is better to immediately entrust such work to professionals.

Watch a video on how to install a built-in refrigerator

Requirements for installing a built-in refrigerator

The work of installing a refrigeration unit involves installing it in a special cabinet. As a rule, it is part of a kitchen set and is made in the same style. The box is equipped with a front door, which is attached to the unit door in such a way that when one opens, the other one also opens.

However, simpler designs of pencil cases are available, the doors of which open independently of the doors of the device. The pencil case can be made independently; in this case, certain requirements must be met:

To avoid overheating of the device, you should organize unimpeded removal of warm air. That is why the back of the box is made open.
The distance between the walls of the household appliance and the furniture should be several centimeters.
Ventilation holes are equipped at the bottom of the structure.

When it comes to choosing a suitable location for installation, we follow the following rules:

We install the device relative to the wall so that there is a distance between the back wall and the partition necessary for normal air circulation.
Opening and closing doors must be free, without any obstacles.
Parts of the structure must not come into contact with elements of the heating system or other heat sources.

Installation process

Let's consider in order how to install a refrigerator:

Unpack the unit, remove protective films and packaging parts. Inside the device there are instructions for installing a built-in refrigerator. You should familiarize yourself with it in detail, check that the number of fasteners and small protective parts supplied in the kit corresponds to the stated quantity.
Using a tape measure, measure the dimensions of the niche for the refrigerator. The amount of free space in depth and on the sides should be from 3 to 7 cm according to the instructions.
Using a level, check the base of the niche for absence of slope; if necessary, compensate for it when installing the ventilation platform.
After removing the transportation restraints, place the refrigerator in its permanent place, not retracting it to a depth of 10 cm (for ease of installation of the facade).
Using a tied thread or twine, pass the power cord coming out of the back wall over the refrigerator installed in the niche.
Mark the decorative hiding element.
Having sealed all the required metal parts and holes with plastic protection, install the device to the required depth and fix it.

Re-hanging the refrigerator door

Instructions for installing a built-in refrigerator in a kitchen set

When performing work, we follow the following sequence of actions:

We dismantle old equipment, if relevant. We try to work extremely carefully and carefully.
We remove the purchased device from the packaging and remove the transport fasteners. It should be noted that when choosing the appropriate device, we must take into account the dimensions of the cabinet and the location of the fastening elements.
We carefully inspect the device, then carry out a test run. We pay attention to how the motor works and check the functionality of the internal circuitry of the device.
Pay attention to the direction in which the cabinet doors open. If practical, install the hinges on the desired side.
We move the unit to its intended place, ensure vertical installation by changing the position of the adjusting elements located at the bottom of the product. It is advisable to use a building level for this purpose.
To ensure a fixed position of the device, we use special foam pads and carefully select the required thickness. It is advisable to place them near the rear of the unit.
We install the facade part and all the provided mounting elements. We check the smoothness of door opening, stability and reliability of the structure.
We connect the unit to the electrical network and make sure it is fully operational.

It is recommended to perform the work if you have certain skills. If they are not there, then it is better to contact specialists who will competently and promptly perform all the actions. Otherwise, the work may result in complete failure and significant financial losses.

External door

Installation of façade elements on a built-in refrigerator is a mandatory operation. Simplified installation is only possible when the unit is located with a door made of decorative material or special glass. Such models are represented on the market by Bosch, Siemens, LG and Liebherr. By choosing such refrigeration equipment, you can avoid installing additional facades.

Installation of facade surfaces on a built-in refrigeration chamber can be done using special fittings or a fixed fastening element equipped with a hinge-roller system. The second option is considered the most reliable, but it is associated with additional financial costs and labor-intensive installation.

Box assembly

There shouldn't be any major problems doing this part of the job.

The order is as follows:

Connection of spacers with vertical posts.
Adding a cover.
Mounting the base.
The pencil case is tried on on the spot, with the built-in device at the same time.

Sometimes an additional groove or hole is required to accommodate additional parts.

If the box and the wall are fixed to each other with corners, the structure will become more reliable. Two or three parts are placed on top, one on the middle spacer. The general level is leveled, then the pencil case is connected to other pieces of furniture. Lastly, they move on to the facades, because the hinges rotate on the vertical posts at the very beginning of work. The refrigerator cabinet is ready.

Sliding guides for refrigerators, for KIM. KIE. KIV.. 00491367

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Everything for comfort

Maunfeld equipment is thought out to the smallest detail to ensure ease of use. Such devices do not require complex maintenance. You can buy an option with mechanical, electronic or touch control. The manufacturer produces equipment with the usual manual defrosting, which is a familiar and understandable classic. But No Frost is also available.

For maximum convenience, traditional functions are complemented by numerous valuable auxiliary options. For example, such a small thing as an open door alarm actually prevents food spoilage and unnecessary electricity consumption.

Source

Disadvantages of a built-in wardrobe with a refrigerator inside

Most often, such equipment quickly becomes unusable due to an imbalance and the influx of hot and cold air. You can get rid of the bottom and back panel to make the device work longer, but often this is not enough. In this case, the stability of the equipment is reduced, which can be dangerous for others.

Many people prefer to create their own designs from a regular factory-assembled refrigerator.