The Frustrating Fridge Conundrum: What to Do When Your New Appliance Won’t Fit
Congratulations on your new fridge! However, it’s common to encounter unexpected issues when bringing a new appliance into your home. In this scenario, you’ve discovered that your new fridge won’t fit into the available space due to your cabinets not being quite tall enough. You’ve already removed the baseboard to create some extra room, but it’s still not slipping into place. Don’t worry; you’re not alone, and there are alternative solutions to consider beyond redoing your cabinets.
Assess Your Current Situation
Take a step back and evaluate the current state of your kitchen. Measure the width of your cabinets, the height of the opening, and the distance from the top of the cabinets to the ceiling. This will help you identify the exact amount of space you still need to clear to accommodate the new fridge.
Explore Alternative Solutions
- Crutch or Space-Saving Devices: Consider purchasing crutches or space-saving devices specifically designed for this purpose. These devices provide a temporary solution, allowing you to gain the extra clearance needed for your fridge to fit. You can find these at most hardware stores or online.
- Shim It: Another temporary solution is to use shims (thin, wedge-shaped pieces of wood or plastic) to fill the gap between the fridge and the cabinets. You can purchase shims at a hardware store or use old credit cards or similar materials as a makeshift substitute.
- Fridge Modifications: If you’re handy, consider modifying your fridge to make it more compact. This might involve removing or adjusting internal shelves or compartments to reduce the appliance’s overall height. Be cautious, as this may void your warranty and potentially affect the fridge’s performance.
- Consult a Professional: If none of the above options appeal to you, or if you’re unsure about attempting any DIY solutions, consider hiring a professional to assess your situation. A licensed contractor or carpenter can help you determine the best course of action to overcome this obstacle.
- Rethink Your Design: If the previous options seem too complicated or impractical, it might be time to reassess your kitchen layout and design. Consider reconfiguring your cabinets, relocating appliances, or even redesigning the entire layout to accommodate your new fridge.
- Consider a New Fridge: If all else fails, it might be time to explore alternative fridge options. Consult with a sales representative to find a model that’s more suitable for your existing space or consider upgrading to a smaller fridge that fits within your current parameters.
Conclusion
When faced with a recalcitrant fridge, don’t give up hope! With a little creativity and problem-solving, you can find a solution that works for you. From temporary fixes to more permanent modifications, it’s essential to weigh your options carefully before making a decision. Remember to prioritize safety, functionality, and aesthetics when resolving this issue. With the right approach, you can enjoy your new fridge and a harmonious kitchen space.
Bought a new fridge and my cabinets aren’t even so it won’t slide into the pocket. Already removed the baseboard to make more room but it still needs roughly 1/4-1/2 inch more room to get it in. What are my options, other than having to redo all my cabinets?