At a Glance
Aesthetic Appeal and Customization Options
What to Consider with Cabinet Panels
How Long Will It Take to Install My Refrigerator?
Editor’s Picks: Best Panel Ready Refrigerators
In today's modern kitchen design landscape, panel-ready refrigerators have become a sought-after choice for homeowners aiming for a sleek, seamless, and unified aesthetic.
These versatile appliances seamlessly blend functionality with style, allowing you to customize your refrigerator to flawlessly match your kitchen cabinets.
In this guide, you'll find valuable insights and practical tips for installing a panel-ready fridge in your kitchen. We've handpicked the top panel-ready refrigerators to help you make an informed choice.
Upgrade to a Panel Ready Fridge
Elevate your kitchen's style and functionality with a panel-ready refrigerator. Explore our wide selection at Texas Appliance and find the perfect fit for your home.
Shop Panel Ready RefrigeratorWhat Are the Differences Between Standard Refrigerators and Panel Refrigerators?
A panel-ready refrigerator is designed to accommodate custom cabinet panels on its front, allowing it to match perfectly with the surrounding existing cabinetry in your kitchen.
Unlike standard refrigerators, which come with a predetermined exterior finish such as stainless steel, white, or black, Panel-ready models are built to be customized. You can match your fridge with custom cabinet panels, creating a unified and seamless look.
Aesthetic Appeal and Customization Options
The primary appeal of buying a panel-ready refrigerator lies in its ability to disappear into your kitchen design.
Installing custom cabinet panels ensures that your refrigerator matches your kitchen cabinets perfectly, creating a sleek and uninterrupted flow within the space. This customization extends beyond color and material; you can also pick the style of handles and other hardware to complement the rest of your kitchen décor.
This level of customization is beneficial and appealing in high-end kitchens where design cohesion is of utmost importance.
Dimensions and Space Requirements
If you decide that a panel refrigerator is what your kitchen needs, there will be a few extra considerations you will need to think about. When planning for a panel-ready refrigerator, accurate measurements are essential. Ensuring you have enough space for the refrigerator and custom panels is key to a successful installation. Here are some tips to help you measure your space accurately:
- Remember to Measure the Big 3: height, width, and depth. Measure the height, width, and depth of the space where you plan to install your refrigerator. Please remember to account for the additional depth the custom panels you pick will add.
- Clearance: Ensure adequate room around the refrigerator for proper ventilation and door opening. A lack of proper space can lead to poor performance and potential damage to the appliance.
- Cabinet Space: Consider the space required for any cabinetry surrounding the refrigerator. This includes ensuring enough room for the doors to open fully without any problems.
- It is Okay to Re-measure: Do not worry if it takes several rounds of measuring to feel confident in your numbers. Also, if that doesn’t work out, don’t be afraid to ask for help from a professional.
What to Consider with Cabinet Panels
One of the critical aspects of installing a panel-ready refrigerator is the need for custom cabinet panels. These panels transform the fridge into an integrated part of your kitchen cabinetry. Here are a few things to consider while deciding:
- Material and Finish: Choose a material and finish that matches your existing kitchen cabinets. This could be wood, laminate, or other material that complements your kitchen style.
- Thickness: Ensure the panels are the correct thickness to fit the refrigerator’s door and frame without interfering with movement.
- Hardware: Select hardware that matches the rest of your kitchen. This includes handles, hinges, and any decorative elements that may be included.
Potential Costs Involved
During home projects, one of the first considerations is: What will this cost? Installing a panel-ready refrigerator involves a few cost components that go beyond the price of the appliance itself. Here’s an outline of what you might expect to budget for:
| Potential Costs Involved | Description |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Panel-ready refrigerators are generally more expensive than standard models due to their customizable features, higher-end construction, and other features. |
| Custom Panels | The cost of custom panels can vary widely depending on the material and design you choose. High-quality materials and intricate designs will increase the price. |
| Installation | Professional installation is recommended with panel fridges to ensure a proper fit and finish. This cost can include labor for both the refrigerator and panel installation. |
| Additional Hardware | Depending on your design choices, you may need to purchase additional hardware, such as handles and hinges, to complete your desired look. |
➝ Learn More: How to Get a Built-In Refrigerator: Look for Less
How Long Will It Take to Install My Refrigerator?
Many people have never been through the process of purchasing a panel refrigerator. Here is a general outline of how the installation process for your panel fridge will go. The first thing to remember is that installing a panel-ready refrigerator differs from a normal refrigerator due to the need to custom-fit the panel. Here’s a general overview of the process:
- Pre-Installation Preparation: Measure the space (maybe twice, just to be sure) and ensure all necessary materials, including the custom panels and hardware, are ready.
- Refrigerator Placement: Position the refrigerator in its designated space, ensuring it is level and properly aligned so you won’t have to change it later.
- Panel Attachment: Custom panels should be attached to the refrigerator doors and frame. This step requires precision to ensure a seamless, professional look.
- Final Adjustments: Make necessary adjustments to ensure the refrigerator operates smoothly and the panels align perfectly with the cabinetry.
Potential Timelines and Factors
The timeline for installing a panel-ready refrigerator can vary based on several factors, including:
- Custom Panel Fabrication: The time required to fabricate custom panels can vary depending on the intricacy of the design and the type of material chosen.
- Professional Installation: Hiring professionals can speed up the process, but scheduling availability can affect timelines.
- Kitchen Layout: Complex kitchen layouts may require additional time for fitting and adjustments.
Depending on the factors listed above, the installation process can take several days to several weeks.
Editor’s Picks: Best Panel Ready Refrigerators
Looking to integrate your refrigerator into your kitchen design seamlessly? Our editors have handpicked the best panel-ready refrigerators that combine top-notch performance with a sleek, customizable look.
Fisher & Paykel Series 7 16.8 Cu. Ft. Panel-Ready Built-In French Door Refrigerator
Model #: (RS36A72J1 N)
Shop Fisher & Paykel 16.8 Cu. Ft. Panel Ready Refrigerator
This Fisher & Paykel panel ready refrigerator has a large capacity in its freezer and refrigerator sections, making it the perfect choice for any foodie or big family.
It has many awesome features, including adaptive defrost, a humidity control system, and simple storage designs. It also comes with ActivesmartTM Foodcare to help your refrigerator learn your needs and usage patterns to optimize performance.
⭐Featured Fisher & Paykel #RS36A72J1 N Review:
#Love the look of it being built into the cabinet. It is a litter smaller inside than a counter depth fridge. So if you have a big family you will need that extra fridge in the garage.#
JennAir 20.8 Cu. Ft. Panel-Ready Built-In French Door Refrigerator
Model #: (JF36NXFXDE)
Shop JennAir 20.8 Cu. Ft. Panel Ready Refrigerator
This JennAir fridge showcases the brand's iconic black obsidian interior, imparting your kitchen a luxurious, high-end feel. It seamlessly integrates into your cabinetry for a sleek, cohesive look.
Equipped with the innovative TwinFresh™ Climate Control System, this panel-ready JennAir refrigerator ensures optimal climate control for both the fridge and freezer compartments, preserving food freshness for longer periods.
⭐Featured JennAir #JF36NXFXDE Review:
"Sleek and functional! I installed this product as part of a remodel. It suits both the modern and classic look we were going for, and it is big enough to handle all our fridge needs. Highly recommend it."
Monogram 30 in. 14.5 Cu. Ft. Integrated Customizable Counter Depth Column Refrigerator
Model #: (ZIC303NPPII)
Shop Monogram 14.5 Cu. Ft. Customizable Refrigerator
If you like making environmentally conscious purchases, this Monogram panel ready refrigerator is for you. It is the first of its kind in the United States and uses a new, more environmentally friendly coolant.
The interior has glass shelves to make it functional and beautiful. Monogram has also made all the drawers, including the freezer, soft-close to keep things running smoothly and, more importantly, quietly.
⭐Featured Monogram #ZIC303NPPII Review:
"Monogram Fridge I got this fridge a month ago, and it is the best fridge I have owned. The ice maker is nice and quiet, and it just looks and runs great."
Bosch 800 Series 8.3 Cu. Ft. Custom Panel Built-In Bottom Freezer Refrigerator
Model #: (B09IB91NSP)
Shop Bosch 8.3 Cu. Ft. Custom Panel Built In Refrigerator
With Bosch panel-ready refrigerators, you'll enjoy a range of user-friendly features. These refrigerators have a door alarm to alert you if any door or drawer is left open.
The HomeConnect feature allows for remote control and appliance monitoring, making it easier to manage. Additionally, the NoFrost feature eliminates the need for manual freezer defrosting.
Transform Your Kitchen with a Stylish Panel-Ready Refrigerator
Panel-ready refrigerators offer a stylish and customizable option for modern kitchens, seamlessly integrating with your cabinetry.
By considering space requirements, custom panel options, budget, and installation timeline, you can find the perfect refrigerator for a fully integrated kitchen. Panel-ready refrigerators provide a practical and elegant solution, whether renovating or designing a new space.
At Texas Appliance, we offer a wide selection of panel-ready refrigerators and expert installation services to help you achieve your dream kitchen. Start your search online today or visit one of our convenient locations. This guide aims to ensure a successful selection and installation, enhancing your kitchen's function and beauty.
➝ Learn More: Why are built-in refrigerators so expensive?
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about panel ready refrigerators:
Why are panel-ready refrigerators so expensive?
Panel-ready refrigerators are more expensive because of their customizable nature and higher-end construction. The ability to add custom panels and hardware to match your kitchen’s design adds to the overall cost, as does the higher quality of materials and craftsmanship.
How long do I let my new fridge sit before plugging it in?
It is generally recommended that a new refrigerator sit upright for at least 4 to 6 hours before plugging it in. This allows the refrigerant to settle and ensures the appliance will work correctly. Waiting 24 hours is advisable for refrigerators that have been transported on their side.
Can any refrigerator be paneled?
Not all refrigerators are designed to be paneled. Only panel-ready models have the necessary features and construction to support custom cabinet panels. Attempting to panel a standard refrigerator could lead to operational issues and void warranties. Always choose a refrigerator designed explicitly for panel customization to ensure proper fit and functionality.
Why Trust Texas Appliance?
With roots back to the 1950s,Texas Appliance is an established, locally owned and operated, residential major appliance retailer serving both residential and builders’ needs. Our 4 locations allow us to offer a full spectrum of appliances to meet your every need. With over 40 major quality brands, Texas Appliance has one of the largest displays of built–in and free–standing appliances in the state of Texas.
We will be the best appliance dealer in our markets by exceeding our customers' expectations in every way. We will treat our customers, vendors and fellow employees with respect, honesty, integrity and appreciation. The difference between a "Good" company and a "Great" company lies in its' employees' determination.
Shop Panel Ready Refrigerators at Texas Appliance
Stop by Texas Appliance’s Fort Worth Store and Outlet locations to see what a difference buying local with an experienced staff can make. Or shop refrigerators online! Our friendly experts are always happy to help you find the best panel ready refrigerator for your kitchen — whether you call us at 817-299-2800, use our online chat feature, or visit us in person.