Install an integrated fridge.

Integrated (built-in) fridge installation in the UK typically costs £120–£350 for fitting alone, on top of the appliance itself (typically £400-£1,800 for an integrated unit). The job involves fitting the fridge into a kitchen carcass, connecting to power, securing the decor door, and testing operation. Most fitters complete it in 1.5-3 hours.

Integrated fridges differ from freestanding in that they're sized to fit standard UK kitchen carcass dimensions (typically 60 cm wide, 88 cm or 178 cm tall) and accept a matching cabinet door fitted to the front for a continuous kitchen look.

Typical UK installation costs

What the install actually involves

• Slide the fridge into the housing — carcass cut-out must match the fridge's required ventilation gap (typically 30-50 mm at top and back).
• Level and secure — fridges have adjustable feet; level to ensure doors close cleanly.
• Plug in — to a dedicated 13A socket inside the housing or a switched fused spur.
• Mount the decor door — the cabinet door fixed to the front using sliding rails or fixed brackets, depending on hinge type:
  • Sliding hinge (most common, easier to align)
  • Fixed hinge (door moves with the fridge door — used in fixed-design kitchens)
• Adjust gaps — door alignment so the decor door matches surrounding cabinet doors with 2-3 mm gaps.
• Test door swing and seal — confirm the door closes cleanly and the seal compresses evenly.

Choosing between sliding and fixed hinges

• Sliding hinge (decor on slide) — the kitchen door is attached to the carcass; the fridge door moves independently. Easier to align, more forgiving of slight mismatches. The most common UK install.
• Fixed hinge (decor on door) — the kitchen door is bolted directly to the fridge door. More integrated look (no visible slide gap) but less forgiving of cabinet alignment.

Most modern integrated fridges are sliding-hinge by default. Fixed hinge is typically a custom-spec choice from premium brands like Miele or Liebherr.

Things people often miss

• Ventilation gap — integrated fridges need air circulation around the compressor. Block it (with insulation, foam, or tight cabinet construction) and the fridge runs constantly, fails early, or trips out on overheat.
• Power socket position — must be inside the carcass, not blocked by the appliance. Check the manufacturer's diagram before commissioning the carcass.
• Decor door weight — solid-wood or thick MDF doors can be heavier than the fridge's hinges are rated for. Maximum decor door weight is in the spec sheet (typically 14-18 kg for a tall door).
• Fridge dimensions vs carcass — integrated fridges fit standard UK kitchen carcasses (60 cm wide × 88 cm or 178 cm tall). Slim-design American fridges often don't fit standard housings.
• Drainage for frost-free models — most modern integrated fridges have evaporation pans built in; very old models may need a drainage tube.
• Door swing direction — fridge doors are typically reversible (left or right hinge). Specify before ordering or check before fitting.

Frequently asked questions

Want a local pro to handle this? A kitchen fitter or appliance specialist will install an integrated fridge cleanly, with the decor door correctly aligned and the carcass ventilation right. The £120-£250 fee is small relative to the appliance cost and ensures the installation doesn't shorten the fridge's lifespan.