Built-in Refrigerators vs. Free-Standing Refrigerators, Which Is Better?

Built-in Refrigerators vs. Free-Standing Refrigerators

Refrigerators can be found in the form of two types: Built-in and free-standing. Buying a new refrigerator is a big decision, and choosing the right one for you can be difficult if you don’t know the basics about both types. Here’s a basic breakdown of both:

Built-in refrigerators are taller and have cabinet depth, which means they are 24” deep. They come in many different sizes, ending at 48” wide. Built-in fridges are taller than their free-standing counterparts, most being at 84” tall. Most built-in fridges have the compressors right on top of it and must be professionally installed and affixed to the wall.

Free-standing refrigerators come in both full depth (meaning they protrude from the standard 24” cabinets) and normal cabinet depth (24”). They range in width, which ends at 36”. The compressor is most often contained on the bottom. These fridges are on wheels and can be easily moved around.

Let’s take a look at the pros and cons:

Built-in Refrigerators

Pros

1. Much longer life span than a free-standing fridge
2. Can be installed flush (at the same depth) with cabinets
3. Come in sizes wider than 36”

Cons

1. Higher price tag than a free-standing fridge
2. Must be professionally installed and cannot be moved easily

Free-Standing Refrigerators

  Pros

1.  Less expensive than built-in refrigerators

2.  Can be easily moved

3.  Come with an optional full depth for added interior space

 Cons

1.  Shorter life expectancy than a built-in fridge

2.  Maximum width is 36”

3.  Cannot be installed completely flush (at the same depth) as cabinets

I hope this basic breakdown makes your purchasing choice a bit easier! Both refrigerator types can be a great decision depending on your budget and the qualities you’re looking for.  At Atlantic Appliance we carry all the top names in refrigeration such as Subzero, GE Monogram, GE Profile, GE Liebherr, Thermador, Frigidaire, Hotpoint, Kitchenaid, Whirlpool, Maytag and many more.  

If you have any questions, concerns or just need a “helping hand” in deciding which fridge is right for you, please contact me Monday through Saturday at Atlantic Appliance and I will be happy to assist you.