How to Replace a 48" Built In Refrigerator with a Freestanding Refrigerator
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.
FAQs
Can I replace my expensive 48-inch built-in refrigerator with a standard 36-inch freestanding model?
Yes. Replacing an oversized built-in refrigerator with a standard 36-inch counter-depth or freestanding model is a very common and cost-effective upgrade. We offer a specific custom trim kit designed to convert a 48-inch built-in refrigerator space to frame a 36-inch freestanding unit, bridging the gaps left behind.
How will the trim kit cover the large gaps left by removing a 48-inch built-in refrigerator?
A standard 36-inch refrigerator placed in a 48-inch cabinet opening will typically leave about 6 inches of empty space on each side, plus a gap at the top. Our custom conversion trim kits are engineered to fill these gaps. The latest design also allows for adjustments to the top louver height, which helps maintain a balanced and proportionate appearance even when covering larger spaces.
Should I choose a flush mount or proud mount top grille if my new freestanding refrigerator sticks out past the cabinets?
If your new refrigerator doors protrude 4-1/2 inches or less past the cabinet face, a proud mount grille is recommended — it uses slotted brackets to extend outward and sit even with the face of the doors. If the protrusion is greater than 4-1/2 inches, or if you prefer a nested look and can't remove the refrigerator to install the kit, a flush mount grille is the better option.
Will covering the large gaps left by a 48-inch built-in refrigerator restrict my new appliance's airflow?
No. The side trim pieces only narrow the gap at the very front edge of the cabinet (typically down to about a 3/16-inch functional clearance), leaving the main cabinet cavity wide open for air to circulate. It works like a wide hallway with a slightly narrower doorway — warm air can move freely and escape through the top vent.
What if the painted sides of my new freestanding refrigerator stick out past my existing cabinet enclosure?
Standard-depth freestanding refrigerators often have painted side casings that extend beyond the cabinet opening. We offer custom stainless steel side panels that attach directly to the exposed sides of the refrigerator case using high-adhesion VHB tape or magnets. This covers the painted sides so they match the stainless steel doors and trim kit for a fully integrated finish.