The built-in kitchen appliance guide

A built-in kitchen appliance may be the right choice for you if you are moving into a new home or just need to upgrade your kitchen appliances. Or maybe you’re wondering: are built-in appliances worth it? Our helpful Built-in Kitchen Appliances Guide can assist you in understanding their benefits.

What is the difference between freestanding and built-in appliances?

Exactly what they sound like, freestanding appliances stand alone. Rather than being built-in, these appliances are freestanding. These units can be moved because they aren't attached to furnishings or cabinets. In contrast, a built-in appliance sits inside the cabinetry or walls, which is more permanent in the home.

Appliances that are often built-in

Several kitchen appliances are built-in. Here are some examples of built-in appliances:

• Wall ovens

• Cooktops

• Dishwashers

• Ventilation hoods & microwave hood combinations
• Refrigerators

• Undercounter refrigerators

• Microwaves

• Wine cellars

• Coffee machines

• Warming drawers

Whirlpool built-in appliances include wall ovens, cooktops, dishwashers, as well as ventilation hoods. A built-in appliance can help you optimize space while also enhancing aesthetics.

Built-in appliances: pros and cons

Here is a list of pros and cons you may find helpful when determining whether to purchase built-in appliances.

Look

These pieces harmoniously blend into surrounding areas to create a seamless appearance. They allow for a more custom design and have limited gaps or spaces. 

Integration

Built-in appliances have more of an integrated look. Built-in wall ovens and refrigerators for instance, can sit flush with cabinetry or protrude slightly. Built-in appliances generally protrude much less than free standing appliances.

Range of options

Built-in appliances can be ordered in a variety of widths and depths.

Flexibility

They can be installed anywhere in the kitchen provided the layout is planned for them to be installed there.

Pricing

You may be wondering: are built-in appliances worth it? Appliances that are built-in tend to be more expensive than freestanding ones. However, if you value style and design, you'll definitely appreciate it. 

Installation and relocation

Most built-in appliances require professional installation, which can make them more expensive than free-standing appliances. Furthermore, they are hard to relocate if you decide to move. 

Replacing or repairing

Built-in appliances can be more challenging to repair and maintain. In general, they normally cost more and are harder to upgrade or replace.

Important considerations

Fit guarantee

Some manufacturers today offer fit guarantees. This can help ensure your appliances can be properly installed into existing cabinetry of compatible width, height, and layout.

Measuring and installing

Measure carefully and ensure the installation is accurate to avoid costly errors, such as an appliance that doesn't fit flush in a cutout. Inaccurate measurements could mean you have to rework an entire area. 

Installation options

There are two methods of installation: standard and flush. Here's how they work.

1. Standard built-in installation

When installed in accordance with Standard Installation guidelines, appliances such as refrigerators or ovens will sit ahead of surrounding framed cabinetry or end panels. In the case of cooktops, they sit directly on top of counters. 

Cooktops that are installed according to standard installation do not sit flush with the countertop and protrude slightly from its surface. 

The following properties are usually found in standard installation options:

• Framed cabinets include appliances such as an oven, microwave, warming drawer, etc. that sit against the face frame of the cabinet box.

• Manufacturers' installation instructions may limit the appliance's placement options. 

• Typically, framed cabinetry is installed with larger reveals around the appliance, leaving cabinet faces exposed.

• Appliances and trim kits have exposed edges.

2. Fully integrated flush 

In a flush inset installation, the front of the unit sits flush or on the same plane as the surrounding cabinetry.

* Please Note: You cannot install an appliance in a flush inset application if you do not have any flush inset installation specifications for the unit you selected.  Follow the instructions included with your appliance concerning use, care, and installation, as they are the best source of information.

Flush inset installation applications often have the following characteristics:

• You can position the appliance to suit your needs with added flexibility.

• You can specify cabinet cut-outs or include separate cabinets around the unit.

• A neat, linear appearance is achieved when the cabinetry is aligned with the adjacent unit. 

• For frameless cabinets, the face frames of the cabinetry or side panels are flush with the wall oven, microwave, and other built-in appliances.

• You can expect minimal gaps and tighter reveals around the appliance.

• There are no visible edges to the appliance since it is flush with the cabinetry or panels.

Some built-in appliances offer panel-ready options. A panel-ready appliance allows a custom cover to be installed on the face or the front of the appliance that matches the rest of your cabinetry. Most often, this is seen on refrigerators and dishwashers and creates a consistent, streamlined look across your whole kitchen.