Built-in single-compartment refrigerator under the countertop

When the kitchen has very modest dimensions, placing household appliances in it becomes a real problem. This is especially true for large equipment, which is why many owners abandon standard devices in favor of compact modifications. One of these is a refrigerator built under the kitchen countertop.

Such equipment has modest dimensions. The built-in refrigerator is compact, low, but in terms of functionality it is in no way inferior to its larger brother. In addition to significant space savings, it has a number of other important advantages:

makes less noise than a standard refrigerator;
consumes less electricity due to improved thermal insulation;
the more spacious the free-standing refrigerator with the same dimensions;
fits perfectly into any design, as it is almost invisible in the interior. For the same reason, it can be installed not only in the kitchen, but also in the office, hotel room, etc.;
convenient to use.

The only downside is that such equipment is not very suitable for large families, since it may not fit the required amount of food. Otherwise, a compact refrigerator is an excellent option for any kitchen.

A refrigerator built under the countertop is an excellent solution for a small kitchen.

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makes less noise than a standard refrigerator;
consumes less electricity due to improved thermal insulation;
the more spacious the free-standing refrigerator with the same dimensions;
fits perfectly into any design, as it is almost invisible in the interior. For the same reason, it can be installed not only in the kitchen, but also in the office, hotel room, etc.;
convenient to use.

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What are the advantages

A refrigerator, the location of which is a niche under the countertop, has several important advantages over a stationary one. You can make a comparison yourself, and only then decide which one to put in the kitchen: a regular stationary one, or one that is built into a cabinet under the countertop.

Advantages:

It is possible to organize an individual design in the kitchen - such a composition looks like something from a picture in an interior magazine, where all the elements can be assembled in a holistic image;
In this way, precious space is saved in a small kitchen, where there simply won’t be any unnecessary furniture;
Compared to the larger one, less noisy;
Electricity is definitely saved, since materials that increase thermal insulation are used for its manufacture, i.e. energy costs are reduced;
Such models, oddly enough, are distinguished by increased capacity - everything can be placed compactly there, observing the basic rules;
They are widely used not only for kitchens, but also, for example, for offices, bars and hotels, so you can even play up an elegant design.

You can install such a device in a corridor or hallway (for example, in a closet). This can be either a single-chamber or a two-door version. In any room, even in the living room or closet, even on the balcony, placement at your discretion, there can be such a refrigerator.

Varieties

Refrigeration equipment built under the countertop can have different purposes. There are several categories of such technology:

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refrigerator directly. Usually it is single-chamber; this technique is intended exclusively for cooling products. The equipment may have one or two doors, mechanical or electronic control;

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freezer. Designed for quick freezing and long-term storage of food. Such equipment is necessary if you regularly make various blanks and semi-finished products;

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wine cabinet. Its purpose is clear from the name. This bar equipment has some distinctive features aimed at storing alcohol as correctly as possible. The bottles are placed on the shelves at an angle, which protects the corks from drying out. The cabinet has a built-in carbon filter, thanks to which there will definitely be no unpleasant odors inside the equipment. Spaciousness also matters: the ergonomics of the internal space of the equipment is such that up to 253 bottles can fit there (depending on the specific model of the bar cabinet). Another advantage is vibration resistance.

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Why put a refrigerator under the countertop?

If you have a long enough work area with cabinets, and there is a lot of free space, then installation is quite possible. That is, in the usual row of sinks, stoves and cabinets with dishes and various kitchen utensils there will also be a small refrigerator. Rarely is it the main one in the kitchen. Usually everything is different: standard appliances find their place somewhere, and a freezer is installed in the middle of the countertop floor, the size of which corresponds to the capabilities of the unit. Sometimes this is the only option to build a freezer into the kitchen.

If the kitchen capabilities allow, then you can “disguise” not only a small freezer, but also fit an equally small refrigerator into a large compartment of the set.

In some cases, a mini-unit with a freezer is located right under the countertop next to it, if the owners decided to hide the unit that way. Then a free-standing floor refrigerator is not considered at all.

In what cases is it reasonable:

If the kitchen is narrow and long, and the unit with sink and stove takes up almost the entire length of one wall. And an ordinary, non-built-in one will simply take up a lot of space and interfere with a more competent kitchen environment.
If the kitchen has a built-in cabinet, the refrigerator can be built directly into this cabinet.
If an ordinary one is in another room, this often happens, for example, it is placed in the hallway (or, if it is a kitchen-living room, in an area distant from the kitchen.

Then, behind the façade of a regular set there is also a refrigerator, which is very convenient and modern. The built-in option also has some advantages. Not only does it successfully camouflage itself in the interior, it can also be technically very convenient.

Typically, such equipment has only one chamber: either a refrigerator or a freezer, which is why it is called single-chamber. Yes, there is a refrigerator design with two compartments, one of which is a freezer.

If you buy a very fashionable model, you may find yourself the owner of refrigeration equipment with a special Bio Fresh department.

What are the advantages of this technique:

In such a refrigerator you can regulate the humidity and set the desired temperature;
In such a chamber, the shelf life of food is three times longer than in a regular one;
They have either mechanical or electronic control.

What are the main functions of such equipment: rapid freezing and rapid cooling. Defrosting can take place automatically in the freezer or refrigerator compartment. Such a hidden camera can be of any size; there are non-standard and narrow models, and there are unusual designer ones.

Criterias of choice

The first thing you should pay attention to when choosing a built-in refrigerator is its dimensions. The mini-equipment must fit successfully into the space allocated for it, so first take measurements of the desktop in which you are going to install it.

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We wrote in detail about the sizes of built-in refrigerators and cabinets here >>>

In general, the following size options are available:

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width 600 mm;
depth 600 mm;
height from 820 to 870 mm;
volume from 140 to 180 liters.

Of course, you can find equipment with other dimensions. For example, there are very narrow refrigerators. But this option is usually small in volume, so it is suitable for 1-2 people, no more.

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The second selection criterion is the number of cameras. Single-chamber technology has narrower functionality. And a two-chamber one - that is, a refrigerator connected to a freezer - is capable of solving more problems.

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The next important parameter is the presence of additional functionality. For example, if we talk about a regular refrigerator (with or without a freezer), then you need to pay attention to the type of cooling system.

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It can be drip . In this case, the condensation formed during operation of the refrigerator collects on the inner rear wall and freezes there. Periodically, such equipment has to be defrosted, which is associated with great inconvenience and time consumption.

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The no frost system is more popular . In such a refrigerator there is no condensation at all, and therefore there is no need for defrosting. The only disadvantage is the higher cost compared to the drip system. But considering the time savings, this still turns out to be a profitable solution.

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An interesting feature found in many modern models is Bio Fresh . This system makes it possible to regulate the microclimate inside the entire refrigeration chamber or any of its departments. This function is needed to keep food fresh three times longer. This is especially important for vegetables, fruits and herbs.

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Also pay attention to the interior arrangement of the refrigerator and freezer. Instead of regular shelves, there may be drawers. This is very convenient because you don't have to bend over too much to look deep into the refrigerator. The boxes are great for storing drinks, fruits and other products.

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As for wine cabinets, it is important to consider the possibility of adjusting the temperature. It is necessary if you usually store several different types of alcohol.

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Expert opinion

Mikhailova Maria Vasilievna

Furniture store manager. Knows everything about comfort and interior design

The wine cabinet can be mono-temperature, then adjustment is impossible. But the multi-temperature one is more interesting, although it has a higher cost.

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And the last thing you need to pay attention to is the doors.

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If the refrigerator is not hidden behind the facade of the kitchen unit, then its door should open in the same direction as that of the work tables.

If you plan to cover the equipment with a facade, then it is very important that the design of the existing door does not interfere with this.

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Installation Rules

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The installation process itself does not raise any questions - just place the equipment and connect it to the network. But before that, it is important to choose the right place. There are several requirements that must be met:

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The refrigerator should not be located close to other equipment - especially heating equipment. It should be placed at least across the table from the oven or microwave. Accordingly, it cannot be placed under the hob either; it can only be mounted under the worktop;
There should be an empty space of about 7 cm between the walls of the refrigerator and the niche in which it is built. This will allow for normal air circulation;
Also, for ventilation, it is necessary that the surface under the refrigerator is not solid. It should be placed on a grated bottom;
It is also necessary to leave a gap between the back wall and the wall.

Also, when choosing a place, consider your own comfort. The stove, sink and refrigeration equipment should form a working triangle, the distance between them should be from 1.2 m to 2.7 m. This approach will allow you not to waste a lot of energy running around the kitchen and will make cooking as convenient as possible.

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Best representatives

Finally, let's look at several models that are deservedly popular due to their high quality and functionality:

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Bos c h Kur15A50. It is a refrigerating chamber with a volume of 140 liters. Very compact and quiet. The inner walls are coated with an antibacterial composition. The door can be hung to open in the other direction. There is a plastic compartment on the door for bottles, which is not very convenient compared to the horizontal grille. A separate advantage is the very accessible instructions from the manufacturer;
Libherr UIK 1424. Two-chamber equipment (refrigerator + freezer). Very small, equipped with pull-out shelves and an automatic closer. It operates quietly and has super cooling capability as an additional feature. The downside is the drip cooling system of the freezer;

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Gorenje RIU6091AW. Volume 144 liters, high energy saving class, three very durable pull-out shelves. The refrigerator is equipped with LED lighting, which is very convenient at night;
Hot-Point Ariston WL 24. Single-temperature wine cabinet with a capacity of 24 bottles. The door is made of transparent glass. This allows you to keep your wine collection in sight, but without fear of damaging it with ultraviolet light. There is an anti-vibration function, autonomous lighting, and protection against condensation.

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A kitchen with a small refrigerator can be absolutely comfortable. If you have a large family, but you don’t want to spoil the interior with huge equipment, you can place two or three built-in cameras nearby. This way you will have the opportunity to store all the necessary products.

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Types of devices

Each owner needs to figure out which refrigerator should be in his kitchen, which is better in certain options. But they are different. And it’s not just about the color: beige, white, black or light with a silver tint; this is not the only thing that distinguishes one household appliance from another. Beautiful options should also be technologically advanced.

Types of equipment:

Classic drip system - condensation in this case collects on the back surface in the refrigeration section, the disadvantage is that you will have to defrost it yourself;
Models of the No Frost system - ice does not form in the freezer compartments, and the inner wall is always dry, defrosting occurs automatically;
Wine - only alcoholic products are stored there;
Models with drawers (two or three).

If you have a particularly beautiful set in your kitchen, of course, you want nothing to stand out from the overall composition - neither the stove nor the refrigerator. Sometimes they even make a wall-mounted or hanging version in a closet on top, which can be closed and disguised in the same way. There are different ideas: where to put the refrigerator depends on how you see the kitchen design in general. The main thing is that the items of equipment are really convenient to use, there is space around them, and not a small corner.

Some craftsmen themselves make a horizontal box, the kind of shelf that is needed for a mini-unit. It is very important to install it correctly, and while the box is empty, think about the installation. You cannot place the device next to other equipment, be it a mesto model or a structure for storing wine. The dimensions of the box should be larger than the size of the refrigerator itself, but in approximately the same area. The equipment should not be placed on a solid bottom, and the back wall of the device should not be located directly next to the wall.

The direct task of the refrigerator is to store food. But where to put it: in the corner of the house or kitchen, is another question. As well as what it should be, red or blue, combined with a window or countertop, or maybe tiles at the entrance. The main thing is to have a full refrigerator of food at home and a good mood for all household members!

Refrigerators built under the countertop

Compact refrigerator with freezer, designed to be built under the countertop.

Type: built-in
Type: refrigerator with freezer
Height (cm): 87.2
Width (cm): 55.9
Number of cameras: 2
Door stop: right

Compact built-in refrigerator with BioCool.

Type: built-in
Type: refrigerator with freezer
Height (cm): 82
Width (cm): 59.7
Number of cameras: 2
Door stop: right

Compact refrigerator with 4 star freezer.

Type: built-in
Type: refrigerator without freezer
Height (cm): 82
Width (cm): 59.6
Number of cameras: 1
Door stop: right

Comfortable side LED lighting and low noise level

Built-in refrigerator with a total volume of 143 liters.

Type: built-in
Type: refrigerator with freezer
Height (cm): 81.5
Width (cm): 56
Number of cameras: 2
Door stop: right

Type: built-in
Type: refrigerator without freezer
Height (cm): 82
Width (cm): 59.7
Number of cameras: 1
Door stop: drawer

Premium built-in refrigerator.

Type: built-in
Type: refrigerator without freezer
Height (cm): 87.2
Width (cm): 55.9
Number of cameras: 1
Door stop: right

Compact single-chamber built-in refrigerator.

Type: built-in
Type: refrigerator without freezer
Height (cm): 82
Width (cm): 59.7
Number of cameras: 1
Door stop: right

Compact refrigerator designed to be built under a countertop.

Type: built-in
Type: refrigerator without freezer
Height (cm): 82
Width (cm): 60
Number of cameras: 1
Door stop: right

Compact and functional

A built-in compact refrigerator for those who want to place all the necessary equipment in a small kitchen and preserve the freshness of food for as long as possible.

Type: built-in
Type: refrigerator with freezer
Height (cm): 81.7
Width (cm): 59.5
Number of cameras: 2
Door stop: right

Compact built-in single-door refrigerator from Maunfeld.

Type: built-in
Type: refrigerator without freezer
Height (cm): 81.8
Width (cm): 59.5
Number of cameras: 1
Door stop: right

Built-in single-chamber refrigerator with a capacity of 133 liters.

Type: built-in
Type: refrigerator with freezer
Height (cm): 82
Width (cm): 59.6
Number of cameras: 2
Door stop: right

Compact refrigerator designed to be built under the countertop

The model is equipped with a four-star freezer and comes with a multi-purpose container for storing ice or eggs.

Type: built-in
Type: refrigerator without freezer
Height (cm): 82
Width (cm): 59.7
Number of cameras: 1
Door stop: drawer

Compact premium refrigerator.

Type: built-in
Type: refrigerator without freezer
Height (cm): 82
Width (cm): 59.6
Number of cameras: 1

Built-in refrigerator with mechanical control.

Type: built-in
Type: refrigerator without freezer
Height (cm): 82
Width (cm): 60
Number of cameras: 1
Door stop: right

Compact refrigerator built under the countertop.

Undercounter refrigerators

Buying refrigerators built under the countertop is the right choice if there is little space in the kitchen and the purchase of free-standing large-sized household appliances is not justified. You can install such a refrigerator instead of any kitchen cabinet, or place it under the table.

It doesn’t have to be very small - there are wide and low models that allow you to comfortably store a large amount of food.

Please note: installation of equipment under the countertop in a cabinet is only possible for specialized built-in models. An ordinary small refrigerator is not suitable for this, since it is not equipped with an appropriate cooling system (namely, it allows working in confined spaces).

That is why prices for built-in models are slightly higher than just miniature equipment with similar characteristics.

Functionality

A built-in refrigerator under the countertop, if you look at its photo, will be almost invisible in the kitchen. It will look like part of your kitchen set - this distinguishes any built-in appliance from conventional, free-standing appliances. At the same time, even miniature refrigerators are almost as functional as large ones. They are equipped with:

Touch control.
Electronic information display.
Height-adjustable shelves.
Sound notification of errors and a loosely closed door.
Ventilation system to prevent condensation.
System for maintaining the set temperature.
Ice makers and freezers (some models).