Integrating a Freestanding Fridge-Freezer?

holdorflod

My integrated fridge-freezer has completely broken down beyond repair so I need to replace it. The problem is that most integrated units are a lot more expensive than freestanding ones. Also, the height of the cabinet space is quite short so there's only a small number of units in that height range.

However, there's many affordable freestanding units which fit the height requirement.

Do you think it would be ok to buy a freestanding unit and put it in the cabinet space given that the freestanding unit's measurements are equal to or smaller than my current broken integrated unit?

I don't mind opening the cabinet door and then having to open the fridge/freezer door. It seems to make sense to me but I'm not sure if I'm missing any unforeseen factors. :think:

uk_messer

Do they fit the width and depth requirement too? Even if they did are you sure the fridge-freezer's doors will open without being limited and hitting into the unit doors?

Personally, I think you're being a bit too tight :-) for the inconvenience. The other option is to remove the cabinets altogether and place in a freestanding unit you're happy with.

holdorflod

Yeah, they fit the width and depth of the cabinet, no issues there.

But I see what you mean about the doors, I hadn't thought about that. Any idea how I could find out beforehand if that would be an issue? I suppose I'd need to know the depth of the door and about the hinges or something.

Unfortunately, money's pretty tight right now so I can only really afford a fridge-freezer at about £200. There's plenty of free-standing ones at that cost but the integrated ones are £400+. :sad:

uk_messer

Have you looked at Baumatic? A quick google and they have one at 280 odd pounds. I've bought their stuff in the past and had no issues.

holdorflod

Thanks mate, I'll have a look :beer:

cddc

Another possibility may be to get an ex-display one. Ring round your local DIY sheds and kitchen retailers to see if they have any available...

Just sold off a nice frost free Electrolux for £250.... a bargain!

scottishblondie

Baumatic do some very reasonably priced integrated ones. I replaced the fridge freezer in my flat a few years back with one of theirs and its still going strong. It was the only one I could afford at the time but it turned out very well!

Gastines2

Worth a look in IKEA. We wanted an integrated larder fridge same as in previous house,cost about £650. In Ikea they did a free standing larder fridge with a flat door that is the same exterior measurements as an integrated one.It was on offer for £175. Built a carcase around it,removed handle,Ikea GAVE ME the required sliders to fit the cabinet door.Only point to take care of is ensure you have adequate airflow to motor,ie,airvent in kick strip.
Bonne Chance.

loracan1

And there's a hotpoint here for less than 300