Imagine walking into your kitchen and seeing a refrigerator that looks like it’s part of the cabinets. No bulky door sticking out, just a sleek, seamless design. That’s the magic of a 42-inch built-in refrigerator! But if you’re thinking about getting one, you might be wondering if it’s the right choice for your home. Choosing a refrigerator this big and fancy can feel overwhelming. There are so many brands, styles, and features to consider, and you want to make sure you pick one that works perfectly for your family and your kitchen.
You’re probably asking yourself: “Will it fit?” “Will it keep my food super fresh?” “Is it worth the cost?” These are all super important questions! Many people feel stuck when trying to decide because the options seem endless, and it’s a big investment. It’s easy to get lost in all the technical details and forget what really matters for your everyday life. We get it, and that’s why we’re here to help.
In this post, we’ll break down everything you need to know about 42-inch built-in refrigerators. We’ll help you understand what makes them special, what to look for, and how to find the perfect one without all the stress. By the time you finish reading, you’ll feel confident and ready to choose a refrigerator that not only looks amazing but also makes your kitchen life easier and keeps your food wonderfully fresh. Let’s dive in!
Our Top 5 42 Inch Built In Refrigerator Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 42 Inch Built In Refrigerator Detailed Reviews
1. GE PROFILE PSB42YSNSS 42″ Built-in Side-by-Side Refrigerator with 24.33 cu. ft. Capacity WiFi Connect Automatic Defrost and Dispenser in Stainless Steel
Rating: 9.0/10
The GE PROFILE PSB42YSNSS is a big, built-in refrigerator that fits right into your kitchen. It has a sleek stainless steel look and plenty of space inside for all your food. You can connect it to WiFi, which is pretty neat. It also has a dispenser for water and ice, and it defrosts itself, so you don’t have to worry about that.
What We Like:
- Huge 24.33 cu. ft. capacity holds lots of groceries.
- WiFi Connect lets you control it from your phone.
- Automatic Defrost means no more messy ice buildup.
- Built-in design gives your kitchen a clean, modern look.
- Convenient dispenser for chilled water and ice.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “N/A” feature is a bit of a mystery and could be more clearly defined.
- For a high-tech appliance, more specific smart features could be highlighted.
This refrigerator offers a lot of space and modern features for busy families. It’s a solid choice for upgrading your kitchen.
2. Café™ 42″ Smart Built-In Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Dispenser
Rating: 8.7/10
The Café™ 42″ Smart Built-In Side-by-Side Refrigerator with Dispenser is a showstopper for any modern kitchen. This refrigerator doesn’t just keep your food cold; it’s a smart appliance that blends seamlessly into your home. Its large capacity means you’ll have plenty of room for groceries. Plus, the built-in dispenser offers chilled water and ice right at your fingertips. It’s designed to make your life easier and your kitchen look amazing.
What We Like:
- Sleek, built-in design looks fantastic in any kitchen.
- Generous 42-inch width provides ample storage space for all your food.
- Convenient built-in dispenser for water and ice saves you trips to the store.
- Smart features offer advanced control and connectivity for your kitchen.
- Side-by-side configuration makes it easy to access both the fridge and freezer.
What Could Be Improved:
- The “N/A” feature list is a bit of a mystery and leaves us wanting more details.
- Higher-end built-in refrigerators often come with a significant price tag.
- Installation can be more complex for built-in models, potentially requiring professional help.
This Café™ refrigerator offers a blend of style and smart technology. While we need more information on its specific features, its design and convenience are clear winners.
3. Viking Professional 5 Series 42″ Built-In Side By Side Refrigerator
Rating: 8.8/10
The Viking Professional 5 Series 42″ Built-In Side By Side Refrigerator brings professional-grade quality to your kitchen. This large appliance offers ample storage and advanced features to keep your food fresh and organized. It’s designed to be a stylish and functional centerpiece for any home chef.
What We Like:
- The ProChill Temperature Management system keeps your food at the perfect temperature. This means your fruits and vegetables stay crisp, and your meats and dairy stay safely chilled.
- Spill-proof shelves are a game-changer. If something spills, it won’t run all over the place. Cleanup is much easier.
- New LED lighting brightens up the inside of the refrigerator. You can easily see everything, even in the back. It also uses less energy.
- Filter-Free Freshness technology helps keep your food fresher for longer without needing to replace filters. This saves you time and money.
- The 42-inch width provides generous space for all your groceries. It’s a side-by-side design, giving you easy access to both the fridge and freezer.
What Could Be Improved:
- The built-in design means installation can be complex. You might need professional help to get it set up.
- As a professional-grade appliance, the initial cost can be quite high. It’s an investment for your kitchen.
- While filter-free, some users might prefer the option of a water filter for their beverages.
This Viking refrigerator offers impressive features for serious home cooks. It’s a powerful appliance that prioritizes freshness and convenience.
4. Café™ 42″ Smart Built-In Side-by-Side Refrigerator
Rating: 8.8/10
The Café™ 42″ Smart Built-In Side-by-Side Refrigerator is a sleek and modern addition to any kitchen. It offers a generous 42-inch width, giving you plenty of space for all your groceries. This refrigerator is designed to blend seamlessly into your cabinetry, creating a high-end, custom look. Its side-by-side configuration makes it easy to access both the refrigerator and freezer compartments. This smart appliance is built for convenience and style.
What We Like:
- Spacious 42-inch width provides ample storage.
- Built-in design offers a custom, integrated kitchen look.
- Side-by-side doors allow for easy access to both fresh and frozen foods.
- Modern aesthetic enhances kitchen decor.
- Smart features likely offer convenient control and monitoring (though specifics are not detailed).
What Could Be Improved:
- Specific smart features are not detailed, leaving room for potential limitations.
- Installation complexity for a built-in unit might require professional help.
- Energy efficiency ratings are not provided, making it hard to assess long-term running costs.
- Customization options beyond the basic design are not mentioned.
- The absence of specific feature details makes a full evaluation challenging.
This refrigerator promises a sophisticated upgrade to your kitchen. It’s a solid choice for those prioritizing style and integrated design.
5. Cafe CVE28DP4NW2 27.8 cu. ft. Smart 4-Door French Door Refrigerator in Matte White
Rating: 8.8/10
The Cafe CVE28DP4NW2 27.8 cu. ft. Smart 4-Door French Door Refrigerator in Matte White is a stylish and smart addition to any kitchen. Its fingerprint-resistant finish keeps it looking clean, and its ENERGY STAR rating means it saves energy. This fridge offers lots of useful features that make storing and finding your food super easy.
What We Like:
- The Convertible Drawer with Soft Freeze is really handy. You can set it to be a freezer or a regular fridge, which is great for different kinds of food. It also has dividers to keep things neat.
- The LED Light Wall makes everything in the fridge bright and easy to see. No more digging around for that one ingredient!
- AutoFill is a cool feature. It fills your water bottles or pitchers perfectly without you having to stand there and wait.
- The Humidity Control System with two bins keeps fruits and veggies fresh for longer. One bin is for wet things, and the other is for drier things.
- The full-width tray is perfect for fitting large items like pizzas or other frozen treats.
What Could Be Improved:
- The smart features might be a bit complicated for some people to set up at first.
- While it’s fingerprint-resistant, very oily fingerprints might still show a little.
This Cafe refrigerator is a fantastic choice for families who want both style and smart functionality in their kitchen. It makes keeping food fresh and organized a breeze.
Your Guide to Choosing a 42-Inch Built-In Refrigerator
So, you’re looking for a new refrigerator, and you’ve set your sights on a 42-inch built-in model. That’s a great choice for a spacious kitchen! These refrigerators offer a sleek, integrated look and plenty of room for all your groceries. This guide will help you pick the perfect one.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a 42-inch built-in refrigerator, keep these important features in mind:
- Capacity: How much food do you need to store? Look at the total cubic feet. A 42-inch model usually offers a lot of space, but check if it fits your family’s needs.
- Configuration: Do you want the freezer on top, on the bottom, or side-by-side with the refrigerator? French door models are also popular. Think about what makes it easiest for you to grab what you need.
- Shelving and Drawers: Adjustable shelves let you customize the space. Look for crisper drawers that keep fruits and vegetables fresh. Some models have special drawers for deli items or drinks.
- Ice Maker and Water Dispenser: Do you use a lot of ice? Most built-in models have an ice maker. A water dispenser is a nice bonus for easy access to cold water.
- Smart Features: Some refrigerators connect to Wi-Fi. You can control settings with your phone or get alerts if the door is left open. This is a modern convenience.
- Energy Efficiency: Look for the ENERGY STAR label. This means the refrigerator uses less electricity and saves you money on your bills.
Important Materials
The materials used in a refrigerator affect its look and how long it lasts.
- Stainless Steel: This is the most common material for the exterior. It looks modern and is usually fingerprint-resistant.
- Interior Shelving: Glass shelves are easy to clean and look good. Some drawers are made of clear plastic so you can see what’s inside.
- Door Seals: Good quality rubber seals keep the cold air in. This helps the refrigerator work better and saves energy.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things make a refrigerator better or not as good.
- Build Quality: A well-built refrigerator feels solid. The doors should open and close smoothly. The drawers should slide easily.
- Cooling Technology: Advanced cooling systems keep food at the right temperature. This helps food stay fresh longer and prevents spoilage. Some refrigerators have separate cooling systems for the fridge and freezer.
- Noise Level: A quiet refrigerator is a big plus. Read reviews to see if a model is known for being noisy.
- Brand Reputation: Some brands are known for making reliable appliances. Research brands to see their track record for quality and customer service.
- Warranty: A good warranty shows the manufacturer stands behind their product. Longer warranties often mean better quality.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use your refrigerator matters.
- For Families: A large capacity and flexible shelving are great for families who buy a lot of groceries. French door models make it easy to access frequently used items.
- For Entertainers: If you often host parties, an icemaker and water dispenser are essential. Plenty of shelf space helps you store drinks and appetizers.
- For Minimalists: Even if you don’t need a huge capacity, a built-in refrigerator offers a clean, streamlined look that many people love. Smart features can help you manage your food inventory.
- For Health-Conscious People: Special drawers that control humidity help keep produce fresh, so you can enjoy healthy fruits and vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about 42-Inch Built-In Refrigerators
Q: What is the main advantage of a built-in refrigerator?
A: The main advantage is its sleek, seamless look in your kitchen. It fits perfectly into your cabinets, creating a custom appearance.
Q: Are 42-inch built-in refrigerators energy efficient?
A: Many 42-inch built-in refrigerators are ENERGY STAR certified, meaning they use less energy. Always check for the ENERGY STAR label.
Q: How do I measure for a 42-inch built-in refrigerator?
A: You need to measure the height, width, and depth of the space where the refrigerator will go. Make sure to account for door swing clearance.
Q: What is the difference between a built-in and a counter-depth refrigerator?
A: A built-in refrigerator is designed to be flush with your cabinetry. A counter-depth refrigerator is shallower than a standard refrigerator but may still stick out a bit from the counter.
Q: Do 42-inch built-in refrigerators come with ice makers?
A: Yes, most 42-inch built-in refrigerators include an ice maker. Some models also offer filtered water dispensers.
Q: How much does a 42-inch built-in refrigerator typically cost?
A: The cost can vary widely, but 42-inch built-in refrigerators are generally more expensive than freestanding models. Prices can range from $3,000 to $8,000 or more.
Q: What is the lifespan of a 42-inch built-in refrigerator?
A: With proper maintenance, a good quality 42-inch built-in refrigerator can last 10 to 15 years or even longer.
Q: Are stainless steel finishes difficult to keep clean?
A: Many modern stainless steel refrigerators have fingerprint-resistant coatings, making them easier to clean. Regular wiping with a microfiber cloth usually does the trick.
Q: Can I install a 42-inch built-in refrigerator myself?
A: While some people do, it’s often recommended to have a professional install a built-in refrigerator. They ensure it’s properly fitted and connected.
Q: What are the benefits of a French door configuration in a 42-inch model?
A: French doors offer easy access to the refrigerator section without needing to bend down. They also provide a wide opening for large platters.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
My name is Gary Flores, the creator of deepskyblue-owl-132507.hostingersite.com.. With a passion for creating cozy, functional, and beautiful spaces, I share my personal experiences and expertise about everything related to home improvement. From practical tips to design inspiration, my goal is to help you make your home the best it can be.