Where should you put the fridge, which is most likely the most massive appliance in your kitchen? You may be limited by electric and water hookups, and for energy conservation reasons, the refrigerator should be kept away from ranges, dishwashers, sunny windows and other sources of heat.
With such a large item, you will want to situate it so it doesn’t block the traffic flow from one work center to another. And don’t put it too far away either. Keep the fridge 4 to 7 feet from the sink and 4 to 9 feet from the range. People not involved in meal preparation often need access to the fridge, so of the three components of the wok triangle, the fridge should be located at the outermost corner. Try to keep it away from an actual corner, however, because a lot of space is required to open and close its doors.
Up Against the Wall
If your plan is to place the fridge so one side is against a wall, you may have a problem. Refrigerators with deep storage bins on the doors need to open more than 90 degrees that are inside the box. The wall can’t extend past the refrigerator’s hinges.
Give Groceries a Rest
At least 15 inches of counter space is needed on one side of the fridge. For top-mount and bottom-mount units, try to have the counter space, on the side of the fridge opposite the hinges, so the open door doesn’t get in the way. Ditto for side-by-side models – have the fridge section open from counter space because you access the fridge more often than the freezer.
It helps to locate the fridge near the entrance where you bring in the groceries. Of course, you need to have room to set them down, so make sure you have counter space to one side of the fridge or across from it – on an island, for example. Don’t position the island too close to the fridge, however, or you’ll create traffic jams when the fridge or freezer is open.
Finally, don’t overlook door swing. The first parameter is that it opens to the work zones of your modular kitchen design. If possible it should also swing away from the counter where you empty your grocery bags. This way, it is easier to stock the fridge.
Using these simple tips, you are sure to choose the best possible spot for your fridge in the kitchen, where it is easy to reach and not in the way.
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