5 Factors to Consider Before Investing in a Panel Ready Refrigerator

Panel ready refrigerators have become an increasingly popular choice for homeowners looking to achieve a cool, effortless, built-in look in their kitchens. Unlike traditional refrigerators, which come with standard factory-finished exteriors, panel ready models allow you to install refrigerator cabinet panels that match your kitchen cabinetry. This approach provides a fully integrated, custom appearance that blends in with your existing design without any hiccups.

If you're considering a custom panel ready refrigerator, there are several things you will want to keep in mind. From installation requirements to brand choices, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know before making a purchase for your new panel ready fridge or just refrigerator cabinet panels.

What Is a Panel Ready Refrigerator?

A panel ready refrigerator is a model designed to accommodate custom panels that match your kitchen cabinetry. These refrigerators provide a built-in, streamlined appearance, making them a favorite for luxury kitchens. Unlike traditional refrigerators, which feature stainless steel or other pre-finished exteriors, panel ready models arrive without a front panel, allowing homeowners to customize them to fit the vibes in their kitchens.

What Kinds of Fridges Are Available in Panel Ready Finishes?

One of the biggest advantages of panel ready refrigerators is their versatility. Just about every different style and configuration is available, allowing you to choose a model that fits your specific needs and kitchen layout.

Panel ready refrigerators come in a variety of styles to suit different kitchen layouts and preferences. One of the most popular options is the panel ready built-in column refrigerator, which can be installed seamlessly alongside cabinetry for a sleek, modern look. These columns are often available as all-refrigerator or all-freezer units, giving you flexibility in kitchen design. Panel ready bottom freezer refrigerators are another common panel ready style, offering easy access to fresh items up top with a hidden freezer drawer below.

Panel ready french door refrigerators are also available in panel ready options, combining style and convenience with spacious interior layouts. For compact spaces, undercounter panel ready refrigerators and beverage centers provide discreet cold storage without disrupting your cabinetry’s flow. Regardless of the configuration, panel ready models are designed to accept custom cabinet panels on the front, allowing the appliance to blend in beautifully with your existing cabinetry for a truly integrated kitchen aesthetic.

With so many choices available, it’s easy to find a refrigerator panel ready model that enhances both functionality and style in your kitchen.

5 Considerations for Panel Ready Refrigerators

Thinking about getting a panel ready refrigerator? Here are 5 key considerations to make before you add this appliance to your kitchen.

1. Installation Requirements

Unlike standard refrigerators, panel ready refrigerators require precise installation to ensure the most perfect fit. You'll need custom cabinet panels, proper door alignment, and often a professional installer to achieve the best results.

2. Lead Time & Availability

Many panel ready refrigerators require special orders, meaning longer lead times. If you’re planning a kitchen remodel, be sure to factor in the wait time for both the refrigerator and the custom panels you order.

3. Size & Cabinet Depth

Panel ready models come in tons of different widths and depths. Some models, like counter-depth panel ready refrigerators, are designed to sit flush with cabinetry, while larger models may require different space allowances.

4. Panel Customization & Costs

The cost of a panel ready refrigerator has additional costs built in besides just the cost of the appliance itself. Custom cabinet panels must be designed and installed, which can add to the overall expense of your project.

5. Best Use Cases

Panel ready refrigerators work best in kitchens where modern interior design is a top priority. They’re ideal for open-concept designs, high-end remodels, and homeowners looking to create a seamless kitchen flow.

Best Brands for Panel Ready Refrigerators

If you are looking for a panel ready refrigerator, here are the best brands to start your search. Click the ➕ to learn more.

These brands are known for exceeding industry standards and consistently pushing boundaries in the refrigeration market. 

Featured Panel Ready Refrigerators

Now, let’s take a closer look at some of the best panel ready refrigerators available on the market now.

Fisher & Paykel Series 7 36" 16.8 Cu. Ft. Panel Ready Built-In French Door Refrigerator

Shop this Fisher & Paykel Panel Ready Refrigerator

This Fisher & Paykel panel ready refrigerator perfectly blends luxury with functionality. Its French door design offers a spacious interior, making it one of the best for large families or those who love to host in their home. The ActiveSmart™ Foodcare system ensures food stays fresher for longer by maintaining prime temperature and humidity levels. Its customizable panel-ready design allows it to blend into any kitchen, while adjustable shelving and spacious compartments provide excellent food organization.

Fisher & Paykel Series 11 30" 16.3 Cu. Ft. Panel Ready Column Refrigerator

Shop this Fisher & Paykel Panel Ready Refrigerator

Fisher & Paykel has made this panel ready column refrigerator a sleek, high-end option for those looking to perfectly customize their kitchen layout. The variable temperature zones offer personalized cooling settings, allowing users to optimize storage conditions for different types of food. With a minimalist handle-free design, it seamlessly blends into modern kitchen spaces while providing ample storage and intelligent food preservation features.

Sub-Zero Classic Series 48" 29.1 Cu. Ft. Panel Ready Side-by-Side Refrigerator

Shop this Sub-Zero Panel Ready Refrigerator

If you want premium food preservation, this Sub-Zero panel ready refrigerator is designed for you. The side-by-side configuration provides equal access to both the  fridge and freezer, while the advanced dual refrigeration system keeps fresh and frozen items at the perfect conditions. Its air purification system removes ethylene gas and odors, prolonging the life of produce and preventing food spoilage.

Sub-Zero Classic Series 36" 20.5 Cu. Ft. Panel Ready French Door Refrigerator

Shop this Sub-Zero Panel Ready Refrigerator

This Sub-Zero panel ready French door refrigerator is a premium choice for homeowners looking forthe best cooling technology and a customizable look. It has a dual refrigeration system that keeps fresh and frozen foods stored at the correct temperatures. The nano-coated spill-proof shelves make cleaning up any messes easy, while the air purification system extends food freshness.

Thermador® Freedom® 36" 20.6 Cu. Ft. Panel Ready Built-In Column Refrigerator

Shop this Thermador® Panel Ready Refrigerator

This Thermador Freedom panel ready refrigerator offers a fully integrated look while delivering top-tier cooling performance. This built-in column refrigerator is designed with theater-style lighting for easy visibility, SoftClose® drawers for a luxurious touch, and adjustable shelving for optimal organization. With Freedom® Hinge technology, this refrigerator sits perfectly flush with cabinetry, making it an excellent choice for high-end kitchen designs.

Thermador® Freedom® 30" 16.0 Cu. Ft. Panel Ready Built-In Bottom Freezer Refrigerator

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For those who need a more compact yet efficient solution, the Thermador Freedom 30-inch panel ready bottom freezer refrigerator is an excellent choice. It features a spacious refrigerator compartment on top with customizable storage solutions, while the bottom freezer provides easy access to frozen goods. The innovative Freedom® Hinge ensures smooth door operation, and its panel ready design allows it to seamlessly integrate into your kitchen cabinetry.

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Shop Panel Ready Refrigerators in Norwalk, CT

Have questions about finding the perfect appliance for your home? The Aitoro Appliance team is here to help! Whether you're curious about panel ready refrigerators or need guidance on selecting the right products, our staff is ready to assist you. Visit our Norwalk showroom, or call us at 203-847-2471.

→ Learn more: 5 Differences Between SubZero and GE Monogram Refrigerators

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