Built-In vs. Freestanding Refrigerator

If you're planning to purchase a refrigerator, you will most likely have to decide between a freestanding or a built-in model. This guide is designed to help you understand the differences between the two types.

What is a Built-In Refrigerator?

In high-end kitchen designs, homeowners favour built-in refrigerators for their seamless appearance. Some built-ins can sit flush with cabinetry, while others are non-flush, meaning the doors will extend beyond the counter depth. Built-in fridges are also generally taller than freestanding models.

Designed for home use, these refrigerators are available in different sizes, reaching as wide as 48" (122 cm). Compared to freestanding refrigerators, they tend to be more expensive and need professional installation. 

What is a Freestanding Refrigerator?

Freestanding refrigerators are the most common type of refrigerators, resulting in more brands and styles being available to consumers. In addition, they are usually less expensive than built-in refrigerators. 

Since they are standalone models, professional installation is not required. As a result, you can reduce the cost and also move the fridge more easily to clean behind it. Furthermore, a technician would have an easier time inspecting and performing repairs since it would not need dismantling.

Freestanding fridges come in full/standard depths or counter depths. There are many width options with the largest width being 36" (91 cm).

Built-In vs. Freestanding Refrigerator

Here are some key differences between a built-in refrigerator and a freestanding refrigerator:

1. Customization :

   Built-In refrigerators are often more customizable since they can be matched with surrounding cabinets or stand out as an accent piece. Freestanding refrigerators may come in select colours, like stainless steel, black stainless steel, black, and white.

2. Fit :

   Based on the choice of installation, built-ins can seamlessly fit into kitchen cabinetry or the doors can be positioned a little beyond counter depth. You can choose from two different installation styles.

   • Fully-Integrated : Provides seamless integration with your cabinetry.
   • Non-flush / Standard : Where the refrigerator doors extend beyond the cabinetry.
   You can choose a stainless steel panel or decorative panel that matches the cabinet. This is based on your preference. You can consult the manufacturer's installation guide or specifications for more details. A freestanding refrigerator, on the other hand, comes in certain sizes that may need a gap for airflow or door swings. This may mean that a seamless look can not be achieved.
   

   A freestanding refrigerator, on the other hand, comes in certain sizes that may need a gap for airflow or door swings. This may mean that a seamless look can not be achieved.

3. Space :

   Due to their sleek design, built-in refrigerators can either be flush with the cabinets or protrude slightly, whereas freestanding refrigerators will protrude more depending on their depth. For freestanding refrigerators, counter-depth models will protrude less than full- or standard-depth models, giving you more room in your kitchen.

4. Storage/Capacity :

   Freestanding fridges (full depth) typically offer more storage capacity but expand beyond the countertop depth. Built-In models generally require 42” to 48" (107 cm to 122 cm) if you want more storage. Built-Ins are often taller, usually above 80" (203 cm), giving you more space, which should be considered when designing your kitchen. Depending on the design, the space may not be available and the cost can be higher

5. Planning :

   Built-in refrigerators require specially designed cabinets, so you'll need to carefully measure your kitchen space for the particular refrigerator you want. A freestanding refrigerator requires less planning when designing your kitchen. However, it is still important to properly measure your space so your fridge will be able to fit without any issues.

6. Cost :

   The price range for built-in refrigerators is typically much higher than free-standing models. For example, JennAir Built-Ins range from $12,749.99 to $15,099.99.

PROS AND CONS

The following are some pros and cons of built-in refrigerators compared to freestanding refrigerators.

Built-In

Pros :

• Premium look & feel:

  Built-In fridges are installed flush to match the depth of your kitchen cabinets. If you want the fridge doors to fully integrate with your cabinets, you can have custom panels created.

• Space (width) :

  Built-Ins can go up to 48" (122 cm) wide whereas many freestanding fridges max out at 36" (91.4 cm).

• Customization :

  In addition to customizing the exterior of the fridge and freezer to fit in with a kitchen design, JennAir offers Columns as part of its built-in line-up. With Columns, you can arrange them however you want and personalize your kitchen as you like.

• Luxury Features :

  JennAir also offers luxury features such as the Industry-exclusive Obsidian interior, soft-close drawers, and LED theater lighting.

Cons :

• Space (depth) :

  A built-in refrigerator’s depth is generally shallower than its freestanding counterpart. This enables them to sit flush or near flush with your cabinets. However, they tend to be taller, which can give you some extra space in height.

• Cost :

  Built-Ins can go up to 48" (122 cm) wide whereas many freestanding fridges max out at 36" (91.4 cm).

• Customization :

  The price of built-ins tends to be higher. For example, JennAir Built-ins range from $12,749.99 to $15,099.99.

• Installation :

  You may have to hire professionals to do the electrical work. Additionally, cabinetwork and plumbing might be involved. It is crucial to follow your appliance installation instructions and manufacturer's recommendations before beginning any refrigerator installation project.

Freestanding

Pros :

• Options :

  With a freestanding refrigerator, you can choose a configuration that suits your needs. There are options with the freezer on top, bottom, side by side, or a fridge with French doors and freezer on the bottom. In addition to configurations, many of them come with counter-depth configuration options.

• Cost :

  Freestanding refrigerators are typically less expensive so if you need to keep to a budget, this is your best bet. Keep in mind that many freestanding refrigerators have top-of-the-line styles and features, delivering that premium look and feel without having to get into the built-in price range. For example, JennAir freestanding fridges range between $5,049.99-$7,799.99.

• Flexibility :

  Choosing a freestanding fridge is a good idea if you intend to move it around, assuming your kitchen layout permits it, or if you intend to use it as a backup. All it needs is access to an electrical outlet to operate. If you decide to move, you can take it with you as well. To do so, you only need to slide it out and pack it up.

Cons :

• Space :

  If you choose a freestanding standard-depth fridge, it will typically protrude more than 6" (15 cm) beyond the surrounding countertops. This may not be a big deal for some kitchen layouts, but it's something to consider, especially if you have a small kitchen. JennAir column refrigerators allow for additional flexibility with customizable, distinct temperature zones for superior climate control. Click here to learn how they blend luxury design with enhanced precision.

JennAir column refrigerators allow for additional flexibility with customizable, distinct temperature zones for superior climate control. Click here to learn how they blend luxury design with enhanced precision.

Looking for a refrigerator that fits your household and kitchen needs? Explore JennAir(R)  Refrigerators with bold aesthetics that are sure to stand out.