An integrated refrigerator fits completely within a 24 inch cabinet, so it is indistinguishable from the cabinet itself when panelled. A regular or professional counter depth is 24 inch deep, but the door will protrude another 3-6 inches (watch the video at the bottom).
The integrated counter depth refrigerator segment has become crowded over the last couple of years. Sub-Zero has 27 and 36 inch models. Miele, Gaggenau, Bosch and Thermador have 18, 24 and 30 inch models. Why do they look so similar? Those brands are identically manufactured in the same factory. Liebherr offers the integrated in 24 inch.
So let's look at the Bosch vs Liebherr Integrated Counter Depth Refrigerators:
Companies: Bosch is part of the huge German owned Bosch Siemens group. Personally, I love their products, especially dishwashers and for our purposes this refrigerator. Liebherr is a smaller family owned company in Germany. Their main products are refrigerators and cranes (building cranes). Other than being German, the two companies couldnt be more different.
Both products are similar from a specification standpoint. Liebherr is 15.7 cubic foot, and Bosch is 16 cubic foot. They both have two compressors with one in the refrigerator and freezer. Two compressors eliminate freezer burn as well as temperature and taste crossover, since the air is not exchanged from refrigerator to freezer.
Price: Bosch $6,495 - Liebherr $3,999.
Freestanding Option: Liebherr has finished sides and can be built into the cabinet and can stand alone as well. Bosch is for a built-in application only.
Freezer: Bosch is a better design with a pullout drawer versus a swing door, so it is easier to access food.
Service: Liebherr has to be serviced from the back, which is difficult and time consuming. Bosch is easier and parts are more readily available.
Bosch is a better designed product, but then again $2,500 for a similar refrigerator is definitely a consideration.
It seems that every appliance review has nothing but glowing comments about almost every product, yet you read customer reviews and they are almost universally bad.
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Steve Sheinkopf is the third-generation CEO of Yale Appliance and a lifelong Bostonian. He has over 38 years of experience in the appliance industry, and he is a trusted source of information for consumers on how to buy and repair appliances.
Steve is passionate about helping consumers find the best appliances for their needs, and he is always happy to answer questions and provide advice. He is a valuable resource for consumers who are looking for information on appliance buying, repair, and maintenance.
Despite being the worst goalie in history, Steve is a fan of the Bruins and college hockey, loves to read, and is a Peloton biker. The love of his life is his daughter, Sophie.
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