Kitchen Reno Considerations: Cooking Appliances & More

Kitchen Renovation Tips for Updating Kitchen Appliances

Renovating and updating your kitchen appliances? Read this before you commit to cabinets, clearances, and finishes.

Quick answer: The best kitchen renovations start with measurements and layout, then appliance sizes, then finishes. Research reliability and repair support before you buy, and budget for installation details, not just the sticker price.

These kitchen renovation tips are designed to help you avoid the most common “we didn’t think of that” moments, especially when you are updating multiple appliances at once.

At-a-glance: the renovation order that prevents expensive surprises

  1. Measure openings, walkways, and door swings (fridge, range, dishwasher).
  2. Confirm your layout and work zones (cook, clean, store).
  3. Choose appliance sizes and configurations that fit the plan.
  4. Lock in cabinet specs, ventilation, and power/water connections.
  5. Pick finishes that suit the whole home, not a short-lived trend.
1) Measure openings + clearances 2) Layout work zones + traffic 3) Appliances sizes + door swings 4) Cabinets + install venting + hookups Result Better fit, smoother install, fewer last-minute cabinet changes.
Measure first, then choose appliances, then finalize cabinetry and installation details.

Do your research before you fall for the shiny finish

Appliances can look similar on the outside, but reliability, repair support, and parts availability can change the long-term experience.

  • Ask what maintenance the appliance needs and how often.
  • Ask what typically fails first on that type of unit.
  • Ask what a common repair might involve and whether parts are usually available.
  • Confirm warranty terms and who services it locally.

Zephyr 36-inch Como Chimney Wall Hood ZCO-E36AS IMAGE 4

Understand trends without letting trends run your kitchen

Some trends are helpful (like separating cooking zones for two people to work at once). Others are mostly aesthetic and can date quickly.

  • Choose finishes that fit your whole home style, not only a current look.
  • Plan for practical details like fingerprint visibility and cleaning.
  • Prioritize layout flow and function over novelty features.

Consider the appliance shopping budget

“Appliance budget” usually means more than purchase price. Plan for the full installed cost and the risks that affect renovation timelines.

  • Delivery access and protection for finished floors.
  • Installation requirements: power, gas, water lines, and ventilation.
  • Cabinet modifications: depth, filler panels, trim, and support.
  • Downtime risk: backorders can hold up the entire renovation schedule.

Cost notes that help you plan realistically

  • Packages can simplify delivery and installation planning when you replace multiple appliances together.
  • Higher-end features can increase repair complexity, so plan for long-term service support.
  • If reliability is your priority, ask which features add convenience without adding fragility.

Troubleshooting before you buy

“The fridge sticks out too far”

  • Confirm cabinet depth and required rear clearance.
  • Factor in handle depth and door swing, not just box depth.

“The dishwasher won’t sit flush”

  • Check toe-kick clearance and door thickness.
  • Confirm the water line and power routing will not block the unit.

“The range hood is loud or ineffective”

  • Shorter, straighter duct runs usually perform better.
  • Match ventilation to your cooking style and the output of your range.

If you are planning a renovation and want appliance fit guidance before cabinets are finalized, start with kitchen appliance packages and then confirm measurements with an advisor.

FAQ

> When should I buy appliances during a kitchen renovation?

After you confirm layout and measurements, but before cabinetry is finalized. This reduces clearance and installation surprises.

> What information should I bring to an appliance consult?

Room dimensions, appliance opening sizes, photos, and your must-haves (cooking style, storage needs, noise preferences).

> Should I worry about repair and parts availability?

Yes. Long-term satisfaction depends on service support, parts availability, and realistic maintenance expectations.


Local Vernon and Okanagan help

Genier’s Appliances is based in Vernon, BC and serves Kelowna, Kamloops, and communities across the Okanagan. Our team provides non-commissioned guidance for renovation planning, appliance selection, and real-world comparisons.

For service questions during planning, see appliance parts and repairs. When you are ready to plan, contact Genier’s in Vernon.

Genier’s Appliances helps Okanagan homeowners choose durable, premium appliances with confidence. Visit our Vernon showroom or request a quote.

Appliance renovationsParts & repair