Hello to all. is it necessary to provide access behind a built-in (24″ deep, 42″ wide) refrigerator? Or should I just design the installation so that the water and electrical hookups are located to the side, and just plan on never getting behind it again? It’s covered with warning stickers showing a toppling unit crushing a stick-figure, so I guess rollers are out?
As a related question, I’d like to continue a row of small cabinets above the refrigerator, from above the vent grill up to the ceiling, but I wonder if they’ll block access for repairs and maintenance on the top-mounted compressor. Can such work be done from the front, through the grillwork opening without removing the overhanging cabinets or are the cabinets a bad idea?
Thanks – I’ve never dealt with a built-in refrigerator before.
Replies
Each refrigerator has specific locations for water supply and outlet. Follow what they tell you.
Some refrigerators come with an anti-tip kit that must be used. With doors loaded and open it could become unbalanced. And there is always the chance that some kid is going to try swinging on the doors.
Don't worry about repairs, they are usually accessible from the front. No access behind is typically needed.
Cabinets above are usually OK, just follow all the ventilation and clearance guidelines.
Rich
Thanks, Rich. Much appreciated.
RTFM - those are accesssible from under the unit or on top, depending on which make and model you are buying.
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When we installed "THOSE" kinds of refrigerator units, it took five or six of us to move the sucker into place. Anti tipping advice should be seriously considered and installed, following instructions on that one item should number one. I can't believe some of their units weigh in at half a ton! Really!!!
I guess this one's a "lightweight" - not much over 700 pounds <g>. It'll be secured at the top to the studs behind it, as well as blocked by the overlying cabinets. Thanks to all for the replies.
Make sure to get the 'cut' sheet for the unit ahead of time in order to properly locate the hook-ups.
IIRC, with an 8' ceiling, there is generally no room above for cabs. i could be mistaken.
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Make sure you have an accessable water shut off. Having to remove a built in reefer to shut off the icemaker feed can be a bummer.