Can I put fridge right next to oven/cooktop/rangehood?

Discussion in 'Renovation & Home Improvement' started by bythebay, 9th Feb, 2016.

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  1. bythebay

    bythebay Well-Known Member

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    Hi guys

    Trying to renovate a kitchen and due to space issue, I was planning to place the fridge nook/shelving right next to the electric underbench oven, electric cooktop and pull out rangehood.

    Are there any issues with this configuration?

    I tried to look in building codes and didn't come across any reference to say this should not be done ... but just wanted to check with you all in case I've missed something.

    Thanks
     
  2. Scott No Mates

    Scott No Mates Well-Known Member

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    You'd try to separate the oven from the fridge.

    Why? The fridge has to work harder/constantly to maintain temperature.

    If possible put a column of wine bottle storage/tea towel holder etc to create a heat separation between the two.

    Stove/oven, sink and fridge generally work best in a triangle format (kitchen design principle ).
     
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  3. wylie

    wylie Moderator Staff Member

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    Ovens and fridges are insulated and there is a thickness of MDF between them. We have these side by side - organized by professional kitchen maker.

    If you want to be even more sure, double up the MDF wall between oven and fridge.
     
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  4. BigKahuna

    BigKahuna Well-Known Member

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    @bythebay There is a requirement (here in the ACT at least) that there be some open bench space next to an oven. You will have to check that. Personally, I would never put a fridge next to an oven. An oven can exude a lot of heat.

    If you have no choice, Wylie's idea of thick MDF is a good option I'd say.
     
    Last edited: 9th Feb, 2016
  5. neK

    neK Well-Known Member

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  6. Scott No Mates

    Scott No Mates Well-Known Member

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    So, the jury is out.
     
  7. bythebay

    bythebay Well-Known Member

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    Hi guys thank you all for your replies, appreciate it greatly!


    I tried to google this before posting here, and similar to your responses there were divergent views out there too. Some people recommend against it, others claim they have had this set up at their own home for 30 years without issue ....

    @BigKahuna can I ask you to point me to the legal requirement in ACT about this, eg: what section of what regulation / legislation, I will then try to find the equivalent piece in Victoria to see if there's any reference on this matter.

    Thank you again!
     
  8. BigKahuna

    BigKahuna Well-Known Member

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  9. BigKahuna

    BigKahuna Well-Known Member

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  10. BigKahuna

    BigKahuna Well-Known Member

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    It's saying that, if you can't have 400 next to an oven, it can be 1200 distance.
     
  11. bythebay

    bythebay Well-Known Member

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    @BigKahuna thank you so much for the info & links!
    do you think these are recommended guidelines rather than legal requirements?
     
  12. BigKahuna

    BigKahuna Well-Known Member

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    @bythebay that's a good question. I really don't know. Someone else may know more than I. Perhaps you can check with the MBA or the HIA?
     
  13. rhinsor

    rhinsor Well-Known Member

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    Check the manuals for the appliances. Some may say about voiding warranties if you don't leave certain gaps. Not sure about the fridge though, insulation should be pretty good.