Exploring Different Types of Appliance Installations

When purchasing a new appliance, you may give very little thought to the installation, but the way you choose to have an appliance installed can add to the overall aesthetics and style of your kitchen. There are actually several different types of installation for appliances, and we’ll explore them here so you can determine which one would work best in your home.

Image of a kitchen

Flush

This type of installation requires that your new appliances are fitted to ensure that the front is in line with your kitchen cabinets. The measurement is precise to create an exact line with the front of the cabinets. This installation style is an excellent option for microwaves, wall ovens and built-in refrigerators to create a sleek look and clean lines in your kitchen design.

Typically, you can choose a standard flush as described above, or a panel integrated configuration. This involves installing your new appliance with space for a panel to be fitted. The panel will blend the appliances into your cabinetry for a consistent look. This style works well in both traditional and contemporary kitchens where the appliance may detract from the aesthetic of your cabinetry.

Sitting Proud

This style of installation will allow the front of your new appliance to extend out past the front of the cabinets. Many dishwasher and refrigerator models are installed in this way as it makes it easier to access doors and handles. A sitting proud installation can also allow refrigerator doors to swing open wider and allow greater access, so it can be useful for maintenance and cleaning, as it is easier to remove internal shelves or baskets.

Stand Alone

This is perhaps the most conventional type of installation and is suitable for freestanding appliances. This type of installation is the simplest, but it does depend on the type of appliance you are purchasing. It is a good choice for washers, dryers, and dishwashers, but there are other appliances that can be installed in this way. There are two types of stand alone installation; counter depth and standard depth. Standard appliances tend to be a couple of inches larger than the depth of your counter, so they will sit proud, while customized appliances will match the depth of your counter, and sit flush.

Choosing the Right Type of Installation for Your Kitchen

Choosing the best installation for your new appliances can be a challenge, but you need to consider the overall look you want to achieve. If you want to create sleek lines, a flush installation may provide the best option, but if you want your new appliances to be a feature of the overall aesthetic, they should be sitting proud.

Of course, you can vary the configuration for different appliances. You may want to keep your dishwasher discreet with a flush setup and panel to blend in with your cabinetry. This may not be appropriate if you have purchased a SMEG refrigerator that you want to use as a statement piece in your overall decor. In this situation, your new refrigerator could be installed in a standard stand-alone style.

If you are not sure about which type of installation would be best suited to your kitchen, it is a good idea to discuss your concerns with your appliance installer. An experienced professional can provide you with insight to help you to determine which installation style is best suited to your kitchen layout, preferences, and lifestyle.

There is a myriad of options for appliance installation and educating yourself on the options will help to ensure that you obtain maximum functionality and enjoyment from your new appliance. For practical advice and guidance, you can rely on a professional home appliance installation technician to help you.

For help with all your appliance installation issues, ensure you speak to a professional appliance installation and repair service.