If you have ever bought a new refrigerator or moved to a new home, you might have encountered the problem of a refrigerator being too wide for the space. This can be frustrating and inconvenient, as you might have to return the fridge, modify the cabinets, or relocate the fridge. So, what can you do when a refrigerator is too wide?
The best thing to do when a refrigerator is too wide is to measure the space and the fridge carefully before buying or moving it. However, if you already have a fridge that is too wide, you can try to trim the cabinets on both sides, replace the fridge with a smaller one, remove the cabinet above the fridge, or relocate the fridge to another location in the kitchen.
How to Measure the Space and the Fridge
The first step to avoid having a refrigerator that is too wide is to measure the space and the fridge accurately. You will need a tape measure and a pencil to do this. Here are some tips on how to measure the space and the fridge:
- Measure the width of the space where you want to place the fridge. This is the distance between the walls or cabinets on both sides. Make sure to account for any door casings, moldings, or hinges that might interfere with the fridge.
- Measure the height of the space where you want to place the fridge. This is the distance from the floor to the ceiling or cabinet above. Make sure to account for any vents, pipes, or wires that might interfere with the fridge.
- Measure the depth of the space where you want to place the fridge. This is the distance from the wall or backsplash to the edge of the counter or cabinet. Make sure to account for any outlets, switches, or knobs that might interfere with the fridge.
- Measure the width, height, and depth of the fridge that you want to buy or move. You can find these dimensions on the manufacturer’s website, manual, or label. Make sure to include any handles, doors, or hinges that might protrude from the fridge.
- Compare the dimensions of the space and the fridge. Ideally, you want to have at least an inch of clearance on each side and above the fridge for ventilation and easy access. You also want to have enough space for opening and closing the doors without hitting anything.
How to Trim the Cabinets on Both Sides
If you already have a fridge that is slightly too wide for the space, one possible solution is to trim the cabinets on both sides. This will create more room for sliding in the fridge and make it look more flush with your counters and cabinets. However, this option requires some carpentry skills and tools, and it might damage your cabinets or void your warranty.
Here are some steps on how to trim the cabinets on both sides:
- Turn off the power and gas supply to your appliances and move them away from the wall.
- Mark the location and width of your fridge on both sides of your cabinets with a pencil. Use a level to make sure they are straight and even.
- Use a circular saw or a jigsaw to cut along your marks and remove excess wood from your cabinets. Be careful not to cut into any wires, pipes, or studs behind your cabinets.
- Sand down any rough edges and fill any gaps with wood filler or caulk.
- Paint or stain your cabinets to match your existing color and finish.
How to Replace the Fridge with a Smaller One
If you already have a fridge that is too wide for the space, another possible solution is to replace it with a smaller one. This will eliminate any need for modifying your cabinets or relocating your fridge. However, this option requires some extra cost and hassle of buying and installing a new fridge.
Here are some steps on how to replace your fridge with a smaller one:
- Measure your space and your existing fridge as described above.
- Shop for a new fridge that fits your space and meets your needs and preferences. You can choose from different styles, such as French door, side-by-side, top freezer, bottom freezer, or mini.
- Arrange for delivery and installation of your new fridge. You might need to hire professionals or ask for help from friends or family.
- Dispose of your old fridge properly. You might need to recycle it, donate it, sell it, or haul it away.
How to Remove
the Cabinet Above the Fridge
If you already have a fridge that is too tall for the space, one possible solution is to remove the cabinet above the fridge. This will create more room for sliding in the fridge and make it look more proportional to your kitchen. However, this option requires some carpentry skills and tools, and it might leave an empty space above your fridge.
Here are some steps on how to remove the cabinet above the fridge:
- Turn off the power and gas supply to your appliances and move them away from the wall.
- Locate and remove any screws or nails that attach the cabinet to the wall or to the adjacent cabinets. You might need to use a drill, a hammer, or a pry bar.
- Carefully lift and pull the cabinet away from the wall. You might need to ask for help from someone else or use a support bracket.
- Patch any holes or marks on the wall with spackle or drywall compound. Sand and paint the wall to match your existing color and finish.
- Repurpose or dispose of your old cabinet properly. You might need to recycle it, donate it, sell it, or haul it away.
How to Relocate the Fridge to Another Location in the Kitchen
If you already have a fridge that is too wide for the space, another possible solution is to relocate it to another location in the kitchen. This will free up the space for other appliances or cabinets and give your kitchen a new layout. However, this option requires some plumbing and electrical work and might affect your kitchen’s functionality and aesthetics.
Here are some steps on how to relocate your fridge to another location in the kitchen:
- Find a new location for your fridge that has enough space and access to water and power supply. You might need to measure your kitchen and plan your layout accordingly.
- Hire a plumber and an electrician to extend or install water and power lines to your new location. You might need to cut into your walls, floors, or ceilings and run pipes or wires behind them.
- Move your fridge to your new location. You might need to hire professionals or ask for help from friends or family.
- Connect your fridge to the water and power supply. You might need to use hoses, valves, fittings, cords, or outlets.
- Adjust your fridge’s settings and level its legs. You might need to use a screwdriver, a wrench, or a level.
Conclusion
Having a refrigerator that is too wide for the space can be a frustrating problem, but it can be solved with some creativity and effort. Depending on your situation, you can try to trim the cabinets on both sides, replace the fridge with a smaller one, remove the cabinet above the fridge, or relocate the fridge to another location in the kitchen.
