Counter depth or built in?

8 years ago

I am actually hoping to keep the current SubZero with panels that is in the new house we are remodeling. Have to convince the wife unit 20 years isn't too old for one and it is clean enough. She is picky.

But if I fail in convincing her I am at odds over another built in ala SubZero or the like with panels, or, a cabinet depth. Honestly I can not tell that it will look much different except I don't think the cabinet depth ones have the panels option. Otherwise, what does that extra $4000 in cost buy me?

What is the actual difference between the two types?

Thanks.

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Comments (4)

dan1888
8 years ago
https://blog.yaleappliance.com/the-5-best-integrated-refrigerators . . This gives the info you want.
jim bracket thanked dan1888
jim bracket
Original Author
8 years ago
Thanks. I admit I might be more confused than before. He adds terminology. Integrated and professional. I think I got it but the issue is in my world shopping for an appliance they list them only as normal, cabinet depth and built-in. And I guess the term built-in means BOTH integrated and professional in this videos world. I still don't get the massive price delta between a built-in versus the same size cabinet depth. Not sure what I get other than a slightly cleaner looking install. Thanks again.
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2ManyDiversions
8 years ago
Hi Jim, I'm here to confuse you a bit more (and please if I get anything wrong, someone correct me!). I love the looks of all - nice and clean lines. But they are a bit different.

From my understanding (and we've investigated this to the nth degree!):

Counter depth refrigerators are even with the counter - but the doors extend out a bit past. As with all counter-depth and integrated, you'll get less cubic feet than with a freestanding or built-in refrigerator of the same width.

Integrated are also even with the counter, but the door hinges are such that they can be set back in enough so the doors are level with the counters - this they are called "integrated". If the same width, they offer less cubic feet than a built-in as they aren't quite as deep.

Professional typically means (as with Sub Zero) the compressor is located at the top.

Built-ins are just that: built in. They tend to be less deep than a freestanding of the same width, but a bit larger in cubic feet than integrated.

You mention Sub Zero with panels. That's the route we are taking. Built in, but we want the integrated look, and will get this by making our counter depth cabinets deeper (27" deep for us). Prior to coming out with the Integrated, Sub Zero made their Built-Ins so you can give them the flush door (paneled) with the counter look. Their built ins can often be installed in 2 ways: Standard installation, or Flush installation (which mimics the Integrated look but allows one to use the Built-In Fridge.

Hope I've helped!
jim bracket thanked 2ManyDiversions
jim bracket
Original Author
8 years ago
OK, that expands on it. My first choice is - leave the current SubZero with panels in. I know it's 20 years old but who knows? Maybe it goes another 10. If I have to replace I really don't want to do anything less. But now I get it. Counter depth the hinges extend. Don't want. Guess I'm stuck with built in. Thanks.