We recently completed a project for a client who wanted to replace their 48" dying built in refrigerator with two 24" freestanding refrigerators.  Based on a quote from their local appliance store, it was going to cost over $12,000 to buy another 48" built in refrigerator.  Below is a photo the final project.  The total cost was a little over $4300, including two refrigerators and the trim kit.  

The model numbers of the refrigerators shown in this photo are below.  Price was updated on 6/26/2024.

-Model number with ice maker FFBF249SS2IM - Price ~$2100

-Model number without ice maker FFBF249SS2LHD - Price ~$1600

These turned out to be a nice option for a few reasons.  

- The height of the units is 78-3/8.  This is unusually tall and helps fill in the 84" space more effectively.  It also helps reduce the cost of the trim kit since our price is based on the amount of material it takes for us to build the kit.

- These models have the ability to add an ice maker.  Not all 24" column refrigerators come with this option.

- The only downside to these models is that they do have an exposed hinge on top.  We can notch the trim kit for the hinges, but it would be nice if Summit designed these with the hinge hidden behind the door.

Other options worth considering

Most of the clients I speak with are wanting a refrigerator that has a built in ice maker, so the options below are all available with an ice maker.  They are all also under $2500 (price for a single refrigerator) at the time of this article.  The price listed below is with the ice maker option added.  Most clients choose to forgo the ice maker on the second unit, as this helps save money on the overall project.  

-LG LRBCC1204S  | Price ~$2000  |  Height: 73 1/4 Inch  

-Summit FFBF247SSIM | Price ~$2065  |  Height: 72 3/4 Inch

-Liebherr C5740IM  |  ~$2400  |   Height: 79 5/16 Inch  |  **Door handle access could be an issue on this model since they are on the side of the door.  You'd want to verify in person how much space is needed between the units to access the handles and whether this would be feasible with your space.**

Interested in replacing your 48" built in refrigerator with two freestanding refrigerators? Click here to shop our trim kits and save thousands on your project.