How To Measure Your Appliances

Single Ovens

Single ovens will usually fit into a standard oven housing unit either built-under your worktops or at eye level. The width and depth of single ovens are usually a standard, so you’ll only have to note down the height when measuring up.

Built-In Double Ovens

Built-in double ovens fit nicely in at eye level for a stylish finish and a practical set-up too. Like single ovens, the main measurement to keep in mind is the height.

Built Under Double Ovens

Built-under double ovens fit under your kitchen worktops. The height is the main measurement to note down. Built-under models are usually shorter than built-in double ovens so that they can fit under with ease.

Compact Ovens

Compact ovens are similar to single ovens, but just usually smaller in height. They integrate at eye level as a handy second oven. The width and depth are usually a standard along with single ovens, so again, it’s just the height that you should note down.

Cookers

Cookers are traditional freestanding appliances. This means they won’t need to be built into your kitchen worktops or cabinets. Instead you just need the perfect space to slot them in. They usually come in widths of 50cm, 55cm and 60cm.

Range Cookers

Range cookers are similar to traditional cookers in that they’re freestanding appliances so don’t need to be built in. But, they’re much wider and bulkier than normal cookers so you’ll need to make sure you have enough space. They usually clock in at widths of 90cm, 100cm and 110cm.

Washing machines and washer dryers

Freestanding washing machines are usually made to a standard size so that they can fit nicely under a kitchen worktop. The same can be said for integrated models, but you’ll have to factor in the furniture door as well.

Think about where you want to place your washing machine in your kitchen, as it’ll need to be close to your water supply. Also make sure to allow for an extra 7cm at the back for pipes to slot in.

Top tip: Some models have chunky control panels that can stick out from your counters if not measured properly. So, make sure to keep that in mind when you get your tape measure out.

Tumble dryers

Tumble dryers are similarly made to a standard size to fit under your kitchen worktop. The depth dimension can vary depending on the size of the drum, so do take that into account.

If you’re buying a vented model, you’ll need to add on an extra few centimetres at back for the hose.

Dishwashers

Standard freestanding dishwashers should fit under your kitchen worktop with no problem. If you’re replacing a model, find one with the same dimensions for a like for like fit.

If you’re looking for an integrated model to sit flush with your new kitchen, you’ll want to measure the height, width and depth of the cabinet you want to install it in. Make sure to give a little wiggle room for each measurement just to be sure.

Top tip: Don’t forget to factor in 5cm of space at the back for pipes to fit in nicely.

Fridge freezers

There’s not too much to worry about with freestanding fridge freezers, just make sure the one you like will fit into the space in your kitchen.

With integrated fridge freezers there are few things to consider. Firstly, most models are a standard size so they can fit into a 60Wx60D housing unit. Secondly, if you’re replacing an old model, your new one should have the same split type, or your furniture doors won’t match up.

American fridge freezers

American fridge freezers are usually only ever freestanding, which means you won’t need to install it. However, they’re massive appliances so it’s important you measure the space in your kitchen to makes sure there is enough room. Make sure to factor in the doors and how wide they open, you don’t want to find out something’s in the way too late.

Does the model you’re going for have a water dispenser that needs plumbing in? If yes, it’ll need to be within 5m of where it can be plumbed into your water supply.

Fridge

Similar to fridge freezers, you won’t have to worry too much about freestanding models, just make sure it will fit in the space you’ve allocated. Under counter fridges are usually made to a standard size to fit under your worktop with no problem.

Integrated models may differ in height, but they should have a standard depth of 55cm to fit into your kitchen units.

Freezer

For freestanding freezers whether it’s an upright model or a chest freezer, just make sure it’ll fit in the space you want to put it. Under counter models are usually a standard, so should fit under your worktops just fine.

Like integrated fridges, integrated freezers are built with a standard 55cm depth so that they can squeeze into your kitchen units.

Sliding vs fixed hinge

With integrated models, there are two types of hinges you need to consider; sliding and fixed. If you’re replacing an old integrated appliance, make sure to buy the same type of hinge used on your old model for your new one.

Do

Don't

Put your fridge freezer next to a dishwasher or cooker, or any source of heat for that matter.

Do

Make a note of where the plumbing and electric sockets are in your kitchen to see if you need any extra ones putting in.

Don't

Put your American fridge freezer in the way of doors or walkways through the kitchen. They open much wider than normal fridge freezers.

Do

Plan for your American fridge freezer to be no more than 5m away from your sink if it’s a plumbed in model.

Don't

Use extension leads for plugging in appliances. Just double check the length of the relevant power cord or pipework.

Do

Plan a ducting route for your cooker hood if want to vent outside. It should ideally be no longer than 5m. You’ll need to deduct 1.2m for each right angle turn you make.

Don't

Put your washing machine or fridge freezer anywhere with an uneven surface.

Do

Plan to have fridges and freezers in an area that is above 10 °C. They need this ambient temperature to work properly.

Don't

Forget to take into account different floor heights.