Integrated appliances

[Prudie]

Can someone please tell me why integrated appliances such a fridges, dishwashers etc are up to £200 more expensive than their equivalent free standing version? It just makes no sense to me because on the integrated one they don't have to worry about providing a flashy front door. It really irritates me.

[ChuckFickens]

Because manufacturers have realised that people will pay more for the built in stuff because they think it looks nicer.

Yes it is a con, largely caused by people being stupid and not realising what you have.

[Prudie]

Not sure if you're having a go at me but thanks for confirming it's a con. Fact is the house we moved into has everything built in (which i thought a lot of newer homes do now) so as the fridge freezer is packing up and the dishwasher too we have no choice but to replace like-for-like or else rip out the kitchen.

[ChuckFickens]

wasn't having a go at you at all,I meant I applaud you for realising it's a con.

[Prudie]

Thanks CF that's a relief! I was scared this would get into CB mode which I look at all the time but don't have the nerve to join in !!! LOL etc

[society]

Stop being a prude and join in CB, Prudie :-)

(it's a joke, i'm not really calling you a prude neither am i turning this into CB mode) LOL

[Prudie]

I'm not really a prude at all, didn't think when I registered myself in the name of my cat Prudence! I am quite sensitive though and the 'banter' on there can get quite vicious plus there is a group that all know one another. I do have a bit of a crush on Squad though, I know he is getting on a bit but he can be be mean, moody but suggestive! B&S is always my firt port of call.

[buildersmate]

I don't actually agree with CF - it is PARTLY also to do with volumes of appliances sold. It's economies of scale in manufacture and distribution. But it doesn't explain the full whack.

[magicmerlin]

You may find that most integrated white goods are designed to fit in the same space available. I am sure that if I am wrong somebody will tell me soon enough.

I would measure size of current space available for unit in question (or check manual) and have a look at curry's etc for similar units that fit.

[buildersmate]

That's right, MM, is it usually possible to do this. You generally have to find a way of jacking-up the machine so it sits just below the bottom of the work-top.
But the issue occurs when one wants to change the front to pull off the white one and put on a matching door. Also there is often an issue with the kick-boarding below the units.
If you are prepared to fiddle around it is possible but most people don't want the hassle or don't have the skills to make it work. By the time you've paid for a fitter to do it, it is gonna be more expensive than forking out for the specialised unit.

[nabob]

My integrated dishwasher broke and I replaced it with a free standing version which fitted in the space with a squeeze. Okay I didn't refit the matching door but no need to. Just cut the fascia to fit.