What in the world is a double fridge hack? Listen, I'm going to cut through the kitchen renovation BS and share something most appliance retailers don't want you to know: you can create a luxury double refrigerator setup for HALF the price of those fancy built-in models. 

The Cold Hard Truth About Double Refrigerator Setups

I've helped hundreds of homeowners transform their kitchens, and the numbers don't lie: 

• Premium built-in column refrigerators: $8,000-$12,000 
• DIY double fridge with trim kit: $2,300-$4,500 
• Your potential savings: $4,000-$6,000 (that's a kitchen island or quartz countertops!) 

Future-Proof Your Investment: The Replacement Reality

Here's something most built-in refrigerator salespeople conveniently forget to mention: ALL refrigerators eventually fail. When your fancy built-in unit dies in 7-12 years, you're often stuck with limited (and expensive) replacement options.  Why are you limited?  Because the cabinets were built to a specific size and you have to hope that the same model is available or the updated version is the exact same size (they rarely are). This leaves many homeowners in a bind.

With our DIY approach: 

• You're not locked into proprietary models or dimensions 
• Replacement costs roughly 60-75% LESS than built-in units 
• Installation is straightforward without specialized technicians 

Smart homeowners plan for the inevitable. Your future self will thank you for this flexibility when replacement day comes. We have a full guide to help you with your refrigerator cabinet, be sure to check that out: Here's the link.

Size Matters: Finding Your Perfect Width

Here's what works in real kitchens: 

• 48" Total (Two 24" units) - Perfect for smaller spaces

• 60" Total (Two 30" units) - The sweet spot for most families

• 72" Total (Two 36" units) - For serious entertainers and large families

Pro tip: We’ve also helped create custom combinations (like pairing a standard fridge with a wine fridge). Don't let conventional thinking limit your options!

Real Customer Reality Check

Robert came to me frustrated with ridiculous quotes for built-in refrigeration. His exact words after we finished: 

"I turned two $900 Lowes refrigerators into what looks like a $10,000 SubZero unit. Changed the entire look of my kitchen and was so easy to install!" 

He now has 34+ cubic feet of storage for under $2,300 TOTAL. That's real money staying in his pocket.

The Secret Sauce: Trim Kits That Make All The Difference

Nobody walks into Robert's kitchen and thinks "oh, two fridges pushed together." Why? Because the right trim kit creates that seamless, custom-built look. Two mounting styles to know: 

• Proud Mount: The top grille has slotted brackets that allow the front of the grille to sit even with the face of the refrigerator.  The grille can be positioned anywhere between 3/4” and 4 7/8” from the face of the cabinet.  The side trim on both the proud and flush mount do not sit proud, as doing so would interfere with the doors swinging open.

Flush Mount: Slightly recessed (¾" from cabinet face) for a sleeker profile

Joiner Pieces: A Helpful Addition

For some installations, an optional joiner piece can enhance your setup. Available in three widths (¾", 1½", and 2¼"), this component offers several benefits: 

• Creates additional space for easier door handle access 
• Provides improved ventilation between units 
• Adds flexibility for future refrigerator replacements 

While not required for every installation, many homeowners find this simple addition makes a practical difference in everyday use. Below is a photo of a pair of GE refrigerators with a 2-1/4” joiner piece.

Refrigerator Shopping: Achieving the Built-in Look

When shopping for refrigerators and going after a built in look, consider the following: 

• Hidden hinges (exposed hinges are sometimes unavoidable, but if possible look for a model with hinges that are not visible from the front) 
• Slimmer door profiles (less kitchen intrusion = better traffic flow) 
• Clean, squared styling (square corners and straight handles give refrigerators a high end appearance) 

The best part? You can choose ANY brand that fits your budget and features list – Bosch, Samsung, Beko, LG – you're not locked into premium brand ecosystems. 

If you’d like to learn more about what to look for when shopping, check out this video:

Cabinet Considerations: New Build vs. Existing Space

Starting fresh? We will send you exact cabinet blueprints so your contractor gets it right the first time. Working with existing cabinets? No problem – our custom trim kits adapt to virtually any space. We've retrofitted everything from 1950s kitchens to ultra-modern new builds. 

The Financial Breakdown That Makes Sense

Let's talk real numbers: 

• Initial investment: $2,000-$4,000 (refrigerators) + $300-$700 (trim kit) 
• Value added to your home: Comparable to $8,000-$12,000 built-ins 
• ROI percentage: 150-200% immediate kitchen value boost 

Why This Matters For Your Kitchen

I've seen too many homeowners drain their renovation budgets on built-in refrigeration, then compromise on countertops, backsplashes and lighting – the elements people actually notice! With the double fridge hack, you get massive storage AND premium looks while keeping thousands in your budget for the finishing touches that truly transform a kitchen. 

Bottom Line: Smart Homeowners Think Different

Can you put two refrigerators side by side? Not only can you – you SHOULD if you want that luxury kitchen look without the luxury price tag. That's what I call a double fridge hack!

The smartest renovators I work with understand this simple truth: nobody needs to know you paid 75% less for your refrigeration setup. They'll be too busy admiring your "custom" kitchen while you quietly appreciate having actual money left in your renovation budget. 

Ready to stop overpaying for kitchen storage? Your dream setup is more affordable than you think.