Can You Put Two Refrigerators Side by Side? Let’s Find Out!
In the world of kitchen appliances, refrigerators stand as the stalwart guardians of our perishable goods, ensuring they remain fresh and ready for use. But what happens when your culinary conquests outgrow the confines of a single refrigerator? Can you put two Refrigerators Side by Side? This article explores the practicalities and advantages of this trend.
Can You Put Two Refrigerators Side by Side?
Yes, indeed! Placing two refrigerators side by side is feasible and has become increasingly popular among households seeking to expand their storage options and enhance organizational efficiency. While this concept may initially seem unconventional, its practicality and benefits are undeniable.
Advantages of Having Two Refrigerators Side by Side
Increased Storage Space: Foremost among the advantages is the generous expansion of storage space afforded by two refrigerators. This benefit proves indispensable for larger households, avid entertainers, or culinary enthusiasts who revel in stocking their pantries to the brim.
Separation of Items: With more storage, you can meticulously organize your provisions. Designating specific compartments for different categories of food, beverages, or other essentials fosters orderliness, minimizes clutter, and mitigates the risk of cross-contamination.
Convenience: The convenience quotient of a two-refrigerator setup cannot be overstated. Whether navigating the morning rush or orchestrating a soirée of epic proportions, having a comprehensive array of provisions without navigating a labyrinth of chilled goods proves invaluable.
Custom DIY vs. Off the Shelf Double Refrigerators
When it comes to answering the question, can you put two refrigerators side by side, you have two options. You can purchase a pair of refrigerators such as the Frigidaire twins or you can assemble your own DIY option. Below are some reasons to consider the DIY approach.
- Cost savings - typically between $4,000 and $6,000 savings
- Larger selection when shopping for refrigerators - you can shop from nearly any fridge on the market
- More storage volume: We make kits for double refrigerators up to 72" wide / over 52 cubic feet of storage volume
- Much easier to replace when refrigerators fail: Since the cabinets are not made for any specific model, replacement is much simpler
Using a Trim Kit to give your Refrigerators a Built-in Look
To achieve a harmonious aesthetic when integrating two refrigerators side by side, consider the application of a trim kit. These meticulously crafted accessories bridge the divide between the units, imparting a sense of unity and sophistication to your kitchen's design scheme.
DIY Options
While Frigidaire may have spearheaded this trend with their "Frigidaire twins", more affordable alternatives from reputable brands are now possible with the use of an aftermarket trim kit. Brands such as Bosch, Bertazzoni, Samsung, Fisher & Paykel, Lebheirr, Hisense, Samsung, Beko, GE, and LG are all worth considering. Using a DIY approach, most of these two refrigerator setups can be installed for about 50% of the cost of a Frigidaire column refrigerators. These options offer comparable features and functionalities at varying prices, enabling consumers to find a two-refrigerator solution that aligns with their budget and preferences.
For example, Robert, a client, contacted us while remodeling his kitchen. He wanted to create a high-end built-in refrigerator look by placing two Hisense refrigerators (Model #HRB171N6ASE and #HRB171N6BSE) side by side. The Hisense refrigerators boast high ratings and include an ice maker.
We assisted in specifying the cabinet dimensions to ensure a seamless fit and created the trim kit for him. It enabled his units to have that seamless look while providing accessibility for maintenance and future replacement. Ultimately, Robert achieved over 34 cubic feet of storage for under $2300, which includes the trim kit.
The trim kit helped transform Robert's $2000 Lowes purchase into a $10,000 Sub-Zero equivalent, which he mentioned in his review.
"I have never had greater customer service than the one I received from Sam at Refrigerator Trim Kits. A true professional. He helped create a refrigerator trim kit that turned the two refrigerators that I bought for $2,000 at Lowes into a $10,000 subzero unit. I cannot express the level of ease and attention to detail this company provided in installing my kit. So happy with the result! It really exceeded my expectations in every way! I would not hesitate to recommend refrigerator trim kits to anyone! Changed the entire look of my kitchen and it was so easy to install!"
Conclusion
So, can you put two refrigerators side by side? Absolutely. This is a practical and versatile solution for households seeking to optimize their kitchen space and elevate their culinary endeavors. While initially unconventional, the advantages of increased storage space, enhanced organization, and convenience make this configuration increasingly appealing to modern consumers. By exploring more affordable options, leveraging trim kits for aesthetic cohesion, and addressing ventilation concerns, you can embark on a journey toward culinary efficiency and aesthetic refinement in your kitchen domain.
If you'd like to know more about the benefits of using trim kits, please visit How to Fill the Spaces Around a Refrigerator.
FAQs
Can I make two freestanding refrigerators look like one large built-in unit?
Yes. Putting two standard freestanding refrigerators side by side is a good way to get a built-in look while increasing your storage volume. You can install a custom trim kit that frames the entire exterior of both refrigerators, integrating them so the two separate units appear as a single appliance.
Do I need to leave space between the two refrigerators?
While leaving a gap is technically optional, it's recommended. Adding space between the units increases ventilation, improves access to the door handles, and future-proofs your cabinetry in case you ever need to replace the appliances with slightly wider models. Additionally, some manufacturers require the use of a pairing kit or heating pad between the units to prevent condensation, which will dictate the necessary spacing.
How do I cover the gap between the two refrigerators?
You can install a stainless steel joiner piece to cover the gap between the two appliances. The joiner is typically an L-shaped strip that attaches to the side case of one refrigerator using adhesive. You then slide the second refrigerator into place next to it to hide the gap. These joiner pieces are generally offered in standard widths of 3/4 inch, 1-1/2 inches, and 2-1/4 inches.
Will the trim kit interfere with the refrigerator doors opening?
Because most refrigerators increase in overall width as the doors swing open, the doors will hit the trim kit if they're flush with the cabinet face. To prevent this, the refrigerators need to be pulled forward slightly so they extend out from the cabinet by the depth of the doors. Adding a center joiner piece also provides extra clearance between the two units so the inner door handles don't collide.
How do I measure my cabinets for a double refrigerator trim kit?
If you're doing new cabinet construction, the easiest path is to select your refrigerator models and desired joiner piece width, and we can provide a custom blueprint for your cabinet maker to follow. If your cabinets already exist, you'll need to measure the height of the top gap, the overall height of the cabinet opening from the floor to the top (measuring both the left and right sides), and the depth of the refrigerator case protruding past the cabinet frame.