Choosing an Integrated Fridge For Your Kitchen Remodel
An integrated refrigerator is close to your counter and cabinetry and blends seamlessly into the kitchen design. They also allow for greater customization flexibility with panel-ready options and integrated handles.
Many homeowners prefer an integrated refrigerator over a separate one due to these features. This style of fridge can have some disadvantages.
Size
Integrated fridge freezers sit completely flush with the kitchen's cabinetry, providing a sleek finish that resembles an extension of the cabinets themselves. They are ideal for kitchens with a modern or country cottage style. There are a few factors to consider prior to purchasing an integrated refrigerator.
The size is an important aspect to consider. Integrated refrigerators come in different sizes, which can be adapted to different kitchen sizes. They are also higher than freestanding refrigerators therefore you can store more food items without needing a second.
The depth is a different aspect to consider. While integrated fridges are deeper than counter-depth fridges, freestanding refrigerators are generally counter-depth. The number of storage options is limited since they cannot be fitted in all kitchen cabinets.
Lastly, you should be aware of the door's design. Refrigerators with integrated doors can be fitted with either a fixed hinge or a sliding hinge. This is crucial because it will affect the way that doors of the refrigerator open and close. You'll also have to decide whether you want a 50:50 split or a 60/40 split. This will determine how much space is allotted to the freezer and fridge sections.
Aesthetics
There are many styles to choose from for kitchen refrigerators of today. Certain refrigerators are distinguished by a color or design that makes them stand out, and some have a sleek exterior that blends with the rest of interior design. If you're seeking a more subtle style and style, then an integrated or built-in refrigerator might be the perfect choice for your home. Our team at Spencer's TV & Appliance is here to help you find the right integrated refrigerator for your kitchen renovation.
Integrated refrigerators are designed to sit perfectly with your cabinets, making them a perfect option for those wanting to create a seamless kitchen. They have a door panel that matches your cabinetry, so it's difficult to discern where the refrigerator's end and the cabinets begin. They're also a great option for those with smaller kitchens or living spaces that are open as they can help reduce clutter and make it appear more organized.
The most popular type of integrated refrigerator is the bottom freezer. This type of refrigerator lets you store larger items such as fish, meat and vegetables without sacrificing valuable storage space. It also has an extra middle drawer that can be used for wine or storing a charcuterie board before friends come over for a visit. The drawer comes with a separate temperature controller so you can set the temperature to your preferences.
The French-door style is another popular integrated fridge. This type of refrigerator has a sleek stainless steel finish that can be matched to your kitchen cabinets. This is a fantastic option for modern homes. It comes with a non-handle front door that gives it an air of luxurious. It's also easy to customize your refrigerator by choosing different colors and finishes.
Storage
Integrated refrigerators are integrated into the existing cabinetry or the fridge housing in your kitchen. This gives them an elegant appearance with no protrusions. These kinds of refrigerators are sought-after by homeowners who want to create a modern elegant look in their kitchens. They hide the appliance from view. They are also more quiet and more efficient than freestanding models.
You can pick from a variety of storage options like 50:50 models, which offer a similar fridge and freezer space which allows you to store everything from fresh produce and leftovers to frozen meats and ice cream. You can also opt for 60/40 splits, or 70/30 models that have more space in the fridge and a smaller freezer.
A majority of integrated fridges come with a drawer for storing meat and fish at 0°C which helps preserve food and prolongs shelf life. There are also a range of fruit and vegetable drawers which can be controlled by humidity to help your fresh food stay crisp and healthy.
Certain models also come with an insulated compartment for frozen food that helps protect food from ice crystals and frost. This kind of appliance is ideal if you enjoy baking, freezing and cooking from scratch and want to ensure that your creations made from scratch last as long as you can.
A separate freezer drawer is a great option for large platters, dishes, and containers for takeaway food items. This will help keep fresh food safe from freezer burn and reduce the requirement for regular defrosting, which keeps your freezer and fridge in top shape.
Flexibility
Contrary to freestanding refrigerators fridges cannot be moved easily when you remodel your home or move. fridges for sale uk are fitted into the kitchen cabinetry and are designed to look seamless and blend with the interior decor of your home.
This type of fridge is usually used in stylised kitchens or in homes which require a premium, modern aesthetic. The fridge is concealed behind doors for cabinets that are typically made of wood or brushed stainless steel material to create an uncluttered appearance that is a perfect match with the surrounding decor. Integrated fridges can also be connected to smart home apps to connect your fridge and other appliances to communicate with each and respond to commands and become part of a larger home control system.
Although integrated refrigerators are stunning in terms of design however, they have a few drawbacks. For one, they tend to be more expensive than freestanding fridges. This isn't due to superior mechanical systems or performance. It is because integrated refrigerators are marketed to a luxury market, who are willing to pay more for high-end design.
Installing an integrated refrigerator can be costly because it requires changes in your kitchen. These include cutting or removing any fillers that might be blocking the way, and adding an bridging cabinet over the fridge to allow for the door frame. In addition, integrated refrigerators are typically higher than freestanding ones and can create a gap that is unsightly on the top of your cabinetry. This may require you to build a cross-over cabinet to hide the gap and provide an attractive solution. This isn't an issue if you're happy to keep your fridge where it is, but it's something to consider if you are planning to change your kitchen layout in the near future.
Cost
Refrigerators with integrated freezers are more expensive than freestanding models because of their sleek design and long-lasting installation. This is due to the use of cooling technology that allows them to be compact and the fact that a lot of homeowners will pay more for refrigerators with a classy design that is not in conflict with their kitchen style. They also require more professional installation compared to other fridges. This can add significant cost to the final price.
As an added benefit, integrated fridge freezers provide an increase in energy efficiency. Because the exterior of these models are hidden, they are well-insulated to keep cold air within, which results in less temperature fluctuations and lower energy usage. In addition, because doors are inset they don't protrude from the cabinetry. This can create an impression of space and openness within.
The freezer section on an integrated fridge will be smaller than the one found in standalone models. However, it offers plenty of space for storing fresh food items as well as frozen items. Many integrated fridge models come with 50:50 splits, which allow equal storage space for refrigeration and freezing.
The benefits of a fridge that is integrated are immense. They have a seamless appearance that blends with custom cabinetry to create a unified layout. They are a great choice for flexibility and storage space, and can be outfitted with a range of features that can enhance the functionality. It's not a surprise that they're the most sought-after option among people who are looking for a luxury appliance. It is important to weigh the pros and cons of each prior to making a decision.