The importance of ventilation when installing integrated refrigeration

Investing in a Liebherr fully integrated refrigerator is a wise choice, not only will it look fabulous in your kitchen and seamlessly integrate into your cabinetry, but functionality wise, you will not be disappointed. With features such as BioFresh, SuperCool and SuperFrost, your fresh and frozen produce could not be in better hands – staying fresher for significantly longer while preserving the food’s valuable vitamins and minerals.

Once the decision is made and the appliance has been delivered, the next step is to install your new refrigerator into your kitchen, unlike a freestanding fridge it requires installation into cabinetry. Unless you are an all-round handy person, this generally requires a qualified cabinet maker or installer, as well as a plumber for the IceMaker (where applicable).

Why is it so important to get the ventilation right for Integrated Refrigerators

Liebherr integrated appliances have very specific installation requirements to ensure they operate at their maximum efficiency.

There are many installation factors that need to be adhered to such as installing each individual unit in separate cabinetry, door panel thickness not exceeding 19 mm, and ensuring that power outlets and water points are accessible and not installed behind the units. One of the most vital factors when installing a Liebherr integrated fridge or freezer, is ventilation.

A minimum of 200 cm² ventilation opening must be provided at both the top and the bottom of the cabinetry to allow for appropriate air flow. If a Liebherr appliance does not have adequate ventilation this can damage the appliance’s cooling system.

What could really go wrong if ventilation is overlooked?

Poor ventilation will affect the performance and efficiency, resulting in the below potential issues:

  • Use more energy.
  • Not maintain temperature.
  • Excessive condensation can cause damage to surrounding cabinetry.
  • Cause the compressor to overheat and fail.
  • Cause irreparable damage to the cooling system.
  • Shorten the life of the appliance.

It is essential that installers ensure minimum ventilation requirements are provided in accordance with the installation instructions that accompany the Liebherr integrated appliance. If an appliance faults due to incorrect installation or inadequate ventilation it may not be covered by warranty.

How to assist your cabinet maker with the correct installation

There are many ways to assist your cabinet maker to ensure they install your new Liebherr appliance correctly:

  • Download installation instructions for your purchased appliance from our website in advance and ensure they understand the installation requirements.
  • Provide your installer with the Important Information Flyer which details in brief key elements regarding installation and ventilation.
  • Purchase a Liebherr ventilation grill (optional extra) to ensure the minimum airflow 200 cm² is achieved.