How to Make Room for a New Fridge

Step 1

Saw off a portion of your counter with a circular saw. Since the counters of many kitchens run along one or both sides of the refrigerator, sawing off a portion can provide extra width. The easiest way to cut a portion of your counter top is by placing masking tape along your projected cut line, marking where you will cut and then setting the measurements on the saw. Set your blade depth 1/8-inch deeper than the thickest part of your counter. Power on the saw to full force and begin cutting.

Step 2

Remove the baseboard along the wall that you’re placing the refrigerator against. Taking out a section of baseboard may only provide a few extra inches of space, but sometimes that's enough to squeeze in a slightly oversized refrigerator. To remove the baseboard, run a razorblade along the sealant so you can separate the baseboard from the wall with a putty knife and screwdriver.

Step 3

Downsize your cabinets. Cabinets can present a problem when trying to fit a large fridge in your kitchen. Trim the width or length of the problem cabinets. First remove the cabinets you’re trimming; never attempt to trim cabinets while they’re fixed in place. Remove and keep any laminate from the cabinets.

Disassemble the entire cabinet. Indicate your cutting line with a pencil. Cut along the marked line with a circular saw. If the cut interferes with the shelving or door, cut the parts to fit the new cabinet. Use a glue gun and nails to rebuild the cabinet.

Step 4

Rearrange the items in your kitchen. Sometimes simple rearrangement can help accommodate a large refrigerator, especially if your dining room and refrigerator are combined. For example, suppose you have a long dinner table in the middle of the room. By placing the table against a side wall, you may open up room for the larger fridge.