Appliance housing sizes
These typical sizes are a guide. Always use the maker's installation drawing.
| Unit | Typical internal size |
|---|---|
| Built-in oven housing | 560 - 600 mm wide, 560 - 600 mm high, 550 mm deep |
| Built-in microwave niche | 560 mm wide, 380 - 460 mm high, 550 mm deep |
| Fridge bay (standard) | 600 - 700 mm wide, up to 1,800 mm high, plus air gaps |
| Dishwasher slot | 600 mm wide, 820 - 870 mm high, 600 mm deep |
| Sink base unit | At least sink width plus 75 mm, usually 750 - 1,050 mm |
| Hob base unit | 600 - 900 mm wide, with a cut-out of the hob size |
Prices move with brand, model, size and stock. Use these ranges to judge a quote, then compare the exact model and what is included.
Ventilation gaps
Ovens, fridges and dishwashers need air gaps behind and above, usually 20 to 50 millimetres, and the maker's drawing shows them. Blocking vents causes overheating and shortens appliance life. Leave a gap above a fridge or use a vented top panel.
Oven and microwave towers
A tall unit can stack an oven and microwave, with the oven at a comfortable height, about waist to chest. Support the oven on a strong shelf and leave a gap for the plug and ventilation. See cooking oven prices.
Fridge bay
A built-in fridge bay should be at least 50 to 100 millimetres wider than the fridge to allow door opening and air flow, and the door must open fully. Measure the fridge with its handle. Install a socket in an accessible position.
Dishwasher and washing machine slots
Leave the exact width, a floor level for height and access to water and drain points. A dishwasher slot of 600 millimetres is standard. Plan the plumbing before the counter is cut. Fixed plumbing should be done by a licensed plumber.
Sink and hob bases
Sink bases must be wider than the sink by at least 75 millimetres and need space for pipes and a bin. Hob bases need a cut-out per the template and space below for gas pipes or cables, with heat protection. See sink sizes.
Planning checklist
- Appliance models. Chosen before cabinets are made.
- Maker's drawings. Kept with the cabinet maker.
- Sockets and pipes. Positioned for each appliance.
- Door swings. Checked for clashes.
- Ventilation. Gaps left as required.
Common mistakes
Ordering cabinets before choosing appliances, forgetting ventilation gaps, making fridge bays too tight and placing sockets behind appliances where plugs cannot fit are common. Appliance sizes vary by brand, so confirm before building.
Before you decide
Choose appliances first, give their drawings to your cabinet maker and ask for a drawing that shows every unit with its internal dimensions. Check the drawing against the appliance sheets and keep copies. Good housing sizes make a kitchen look built-in and keep appliances healthy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Typically 560 to 600 mm wide and high and about 550 mm deep, but always use the maker's drawing. Ask for the specification in writing so you can compare quotes on the same basis. Check the warranty terms and who honours them before you pay.
At least 50 to 100 mm wider than the fridge, with air gaps above and behind and room for the door to open fully. Check the warranty terms and who honours them before you pay. Measure carefully and confirm sizes with the seller before ordering.
About 600 mm wide, 820 to 870 mm high and 600 mm deep. Measure carefully and confirm sizes with the seller before ordering. Rates and stock change, so confirm the current position before you commit. If you are unsure, send a photo and the measurements and we will advise.
To stop overheating. Typically 20 to 50 mm behind and above, as the maker shows. Rates and stock change, so confirm the current position before you commit. If you are unsure, send a photo and the measurements and we will advise. Ask for the specification in writing so you can compare quotes on the same basis.
Before cabinets are made, so the maker can build the right sizes. If you are unsure, send a photo and the measurements and we will advise. Ask for the specification in writing so you can compare quotes on the same basis. Check the warranty terms and who honours them before you pay.
Send the quantity, the size or rating and a photo of the space. We reply with a written rate that names the model and the warranty, and lists what is and is not included, so the comparison with other sellers is fair.