A:Answer Hi yarmouth, To ensure proper ventilation for your refrigerator, allow for ¹⁄₂" of space on each side and at the top. Allow for 1" of space behind the refrigerator. If your refrigerator has an ice maker, allow extra space at the back for the water line connections. When installing your refrigerator next to a fixed wall, leave 2¹⁄₂" minimum on the hinge side (some models require more) to allow for the door to swing open. We hope this helps.