Why Are Built In Refrigerators So Expensive ? Refrigerators are one of the most important items in a kitchen. They have been around for a long time, and they show no signs of going out of style any time soon. In fact, because of their popularity, there are many different styles to choose from when you’re looking for your next refrigerator purchase! There are also many reasons why some refrigerators cost more than others. This article will discuss some common reasons that built-in refrigerators can be so expensive and what it is about these appliances that make them so desirable.
See Also:
- What Is A Pre-Rinse Kitchen Faucet? – 8 Amazing Tips To Choose
- Difference Between Irish And English Breakfast Tea: Which Is Better For You?
What Is Built-In Fridge?
Built-in refrigerators are refrigerators that are secured into cabinetry and offer a luxurious high-end look. Built-in refrigerators can either be stainless steel or panel ready, covered by custom cabinet panels to blend seamlessly into your kitchen.
Why Are Built In Refrigerators So Expensive ? The Pros And Cons Of A Built-in Refrigerator
Built-in refrigerators provide a seamless, high-end look to the kitchen. The term “built-in” means that these refrigerators will fit precisely into their designated space without volume or wasted space showing on top or at either side. Freestanding refrigerators are not made precise and there is always excess space on the sides or top creating
ADVANTAGES OF A BUILT-IN REFRIGERATOR
More Free Space
The fridge is an integral part of today’s trend to do more with less. Installing a low-height built-in refrigerator frees up space and allows homeowners to gain countertop real estate.
Smooth And Stylish
Modern built-in refrigerators are made of high-quality stainless steel or aluminum that ensures the design will last for a long time while maintaining the same great benefits. You can always choose from a broad range of materials, styles, colors, and designs when buying one.
Environmentally Friendly
Most built-in appliances are energy star certified because they were manufactured after 2002. This not only certifies that the appliance is energy efficient but also helps you save on your power bill which helps contribute to going green and saving your environment.
Better Traffic Flow
Our modern society has many needs and one of them is space. We can find a fridge anywhere in society, but where ever it is placed there will be some kind of effect on traffic flow. A built-in fridge eliminates this concern as they are built to fit within the wall. This also allows for us to invite more people over without cramming them in a small kitchen.
A More Streamlined Look
Built-in refrigerators are a popular kitchen appliance because they don’t protrude and result in a cleaner, sleeker lines.
Easy To Fit
Even though they are not visible from the outside of a counter, built-in refrigerators function just as well as standard fridges. The depth can vary because they are structurally designed to fit cabinet depths between 230 and 260 centimeters, which is about 12 inches shorter than typical appliances. Therefore, it’s easy to fit them into many spaces.
DISADVANTAGES OF A BUILT-IN REFRIGERATOR
Generally, the advantages and disadvantages of built-in refrigerators are the same as those for every other appliance. Typical drawbacks include:
Shorter Crispers And Deli Compartments
Although this fridge is built into a kitchen and provides better access than standard refrigerators, the drawers are slightly shorter which can make a significant difference if you need to store longer items such as celery or plastic containers.
Smaller Freezer Compartment
Another significant factor to consider before making an investment in built-in refrigerators is the storage space that it offers. In a fully integrated refrigerator, you’re allotted noticeably less freezer storage than you can find with a standard fridge. When shopping for your ideal combo appliance, should the freezer section even exist at all, be sure to take this potential challenge into account.
Inconvenience
While this type of refrigerator is perfect for anyone who’s short on kitchen space but has some kind of disability, it can be inconvenient to have everything at the lower level.
Can Be Expensive Upfront
The upfront cost of a built-in refrigerator is often over $200. The more affordable models retail for about this amount, but high-quality units can be priced at twice as much–or more. Installation costs may also influence the price tag for installation, with some estimates running up to $2,000 or more if carpentry work is involved in
Considering the potential savings thanks to their benefits of increased energy efficiency and space, built-in fridges are a smart investment. The installation of an under-counter refrigerator provides a number of advantages that outweigh the disadvantages.
What Is Different Between Freestanding Refrigerators And Built-In Refrigerators?
FREESTANDING REFRIGERATORS
This free-standing fridge is the most popular in North America because it’s the least expensive option and can be produced in bulk. The more technically advanced “smart” models range from as low as $4,000 to much higher amounts.
Freestanding fridges are cheaper and don’t need installation by a professional. There are many door styles to choose from, including left or right hinges and French doors, too. Freestanding fridges are also more easily moved or sold if you move again in the future.
Their depth and width options are limited depending on their space availability within the kitchen. Full-depth models may poke into other cabinets or counters, creating a less aesthetically pleasing setup. There are 24” depth models that do not jut out past surrounding cabinetry for those who value this in their style, which would work well for some kitchens.
Accuracy is a huge consideration for those looking to buy a refrigerator freezer online. As far as width is concerned, the widest option is 36”, and there are plenty of widths below that to choose from. If you have an overhanging kitchen or too much space in general, you could end up with an appliance languishing in your home.
BUILT-IN REFRIGERATORS
If you’re looking for a seamless look that is flush with your cabinets or countertops, then a built-in refrigerator may be the best option for you. They come in many different sizes, and can even offer up to 10 inches more space than freestanding refrigerators.
The biggest drawback to built-in refrigerators is the high cost, which can go up nearly $10,000. But the advantage of getting a quality fridge lasts years longer than the freestanding model.
The Best Built-In Refrigerators Brand
- Best Overall: Kitchenaid 25 Cu. Ft. Built-in Refrigerator
- Best Bang For The Buck: Bosch Benchmark 36 Inch French Door Refrigerator
- Best Smart: Cafe 25.2 Cu. Ft. Smart Built-in Refrigerator
- Best Energy Efficient: Lg Studio 42 Inch Built-in Smart Refrigerator
- Best Large Capacity: Kitchenaid 30-Cu Ft Built-in Refrigerator
- Best For Small Spaces: Monogram 36 Inch Built-in Panel Ready Refrigerator
Built-in Fridge Price
Built-in fridges usually start around $5,000 and go up from there. For example, the KitchenAid built-ins can be as much as $7,000-$9,000 while a recommended freestanding refrigerator will run you about $2,000.
Some Other Related Questions
Are built in refrigerators worth it?
If your fridge space is compatible with a freestanding fridge, it might not be worth it to spend the extra money on a built-in model. … If you can find a way to make room in your budget, a built-in fridge can offer a lot of benefits and improve the overall look of your kitchen.
How long do built in fridges last?
CR members expect refrigerators they buy to last 10 years, on average, according to our 2018 survey, and that lines up with what most manufacturers tell us: Their fridges are built to last 10 years
Can you replace a built in refrigerator with a regular refrigerator?
For most consumers, the best replacement option is a new version of their old refrigerator. This is because the cutout dimensions, water location, and electrical location are most likely to be in the same place.
Conclusion
In this article, we’ll discuss why built-in refrigerators are so expensive and address the pros and cons of these appliances.
I am Paula D. Gonzales. As a Product Designer, I have worked with companies like AMC Culinary Cookware, counting over 6 years of professional experience in the cookwares field.
In this blog, I will review various cookware products such as cookware benefits, non-stick safety, healthy cookware, taste, durability, PFOA free, and induction cookware. My goal is to build a rigorous evaluation of various cookware products so that you and I can better understand the differences in the products and their relative benefits.