5 Integrated Fridge Lessons Learned From Professionals
Choosing an Integrated Fridge For Your Kitchen Remodel
A built-in refrigerator is flush with counters and cabinets and blends seamlessly into the design of your kitchen. With panel-ready options and integrated handles, they also provide greater flexibility in customization.
Many homeowners opt for an integrated refrigerator over a standalone one due to these advantages. However, this type of refrigerator can also come with some disadvantages.
Size
Integrated fridge-freezers are flush with the kitchen cabinetry and provide a sleek look that appears to be a continuation of the cabinets. This makes them ideal for contemporary and country cottage-style kitchens. There are a few things to take into consideration before buying an integrated refrigerator.
The size is an important factor to consider. Refrigerators with integrated features come in various widths, to fit into various sizes of kitchens. They're also typically higher than freestanding refrigerators, allowing you to store more food in them without the necessity of another fridge.
Another factor to consider is the depth. While integrated refrigerators are deeper than counter-depth refrigerators, freestanding refrigerators are typically counter-depth. The range of storage options is limited, since they cannot be fitted in all kitchen cabinets.
Last but not least, you must think about the design of the door. Integrated refrigerators can be fitted with either a fixed hinge or fridge-freezer a sliding hinge model. It's important to note this as it affects how the fridge's doors open and close. You'll need to decide if you want to split the freezer and fridge sections 50:50 or 60/40.
Aesthetics
There are various styles available for kitchen refrigerators today. Some fridges have a standout color or panel that makes them look unique while others have an elegant exterior that blends into the the room's design. If you prefer an elegant look, an integrated or built in fridge could be a good fit for your home. Spencer's TV & Appliance can help you select the right integrated refrigerator for your kitchen renovation.
Integrated refrigerators are designed to fit in a flush position with your cabinets and are the ideal option for those looking to create a seamless kitchen design. The door panel is matched to the cabinetry, so you won't be able to discern the distinction between the refrigerator and the cabinets. These are also great for kitchens with small spaces and living spaces that are open, as they can reduce clutter and make it appear more organized.
The most popular type of integrated fridge is a refrigerator with a bottom freezer. This model allows for larger items such as meat, fish and fridge-Freezer even vegetables to be stored without sacrificing storage space. It also comes with an extra middle drawer that can be used for wine storage or for storing the charcuterie board prior to a 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 refrigerator. This type of refrigerator has an elegant stainless steel look that will match the kitchen cabinets. It's a great choice for modern homes and features a door with no handles that gives it a luxurious look. You can also customize your refrigerator by picking various colors and finishes.
Storage
Integrated refrigerators are integrated into the fridge's housing or cabinets in your kitchen and give it an uncluttered look without forward protrusions. These kinds of refrigerators are an ideal choice for those who want to create a contemporary or contemporary kitchen style that conceals the appliance from the view. They are also quieter and more efficient than freestanding models.
You can pick from various storage options. For example, you can opt for fridge-Freezer 50:50 models, which offer equal space in the fridge and freezer. This allows you to store anything from leftovers to fresh produce to frozen meats, ice cream and even leftovers. You can also select 60/40 splits or 70/30 models that have more space for freezers and a smaller fridge.
A majority of integrated fridges have a drawer that stores fish and meat at 0degC which enhances preservation and prolongs shelf life. There are also a range of drawers for vegetables and fruits which can be controlled by humidity to ensure that your fresh food stay crisp and healthy.
Some models come with a "frozen compartment' that protects food from ice and frost. This kind of appliance is perfect if you enjoy baking or freezing food from scratch and want to ensure that your home-cooked creations last as long as you can.
A separate freezer drawer can be installed for large platters, dishes, and containers of takeaway foods. This will safeguard your food from freezer damage and reduce the need to defrost regularly.
Flexibility
In contrast to freestanding refrigerators, integrated fridges aren't able to be moved easily when you renovate your home or move. They are integrated into kitchen cabinets and are designed to match the rest of the decor of your home.
This type of fridge is often utilized in kitchens with a stylised design or homes that require a luxurious, modern aesthetic. The fridge is hidden behind doors to cabinets that are typically constructed of wood or stainless steel that has been brushed to create an elegant appearance that blends into the decor. The integrated fridge can also be paired with smart home applications that connect your refrigerator and other appliances to communicate with one and respond to commands and form part of a bigger home control system.
Despite their appealing appearance, integrated refrigerators have some disadvantages. They are, for one, likely to be more expensive than freestanding refrigerators. This isn't due to better mechanical systems or performance. It's because integrated fridges are targeted at a premium market, who are willing to pay more for the elegant design.
Installing an integrated refrigerator can be costly because it requires changes to your kitchen. This includes cutting out or removing any fillers that are in the way and putting a bridging cupboard above the fridge to accommodate its door frame. Integrated fridges & freezers tend to be taller than freestanding ones and can leave a gap at the top. You may need to add an overhang to cover the gap. This will make it more visually pleasing. This is not an issue for those who are content with keeping your fridge in the same place it is, but it is something to consider if are planning to change your kitchen layout in the near future.
Cost
Integrated fridge freezers are more expensive than freestanding models due to their sleek design and their permanent installation. This is due to the use of cooling technology that can fit into a smaller space and the fact that a lot of homeowners are willing to spend more on refrigerators with a classy design that is not in conflict with their kitchen style. Additionally they require more expert installation than other refrigerators and can increase the final price.
In addition, integrated fridge freezers provide enhanced energy efficiency. Since the exterior of these models is concealed, they are well-insulated to keep cold air from getting inside, resulting in fewer temperature fluctuations and lower energy consumption. In addition, since doors are set, they do not protrude out of the cabinetry. This can give an illusion of spaciousness and a feeling of openness inside.
The freezer section of an integrated fridge will be smaller than the ones available in standalone models. However, it has plenty of space for storing fresh food items and frozen products. Many integrated fridge models come with 50:50 splits that allow equal storage space for refrigeration and freezing.
The benefits of integrated refrigerators are huge. They are sleek and stylish that blends with custom cabinetry to create a more unified layout. They provide greater flexibility and storage space, and are also able to be fitted with a range of features that enhance functionality. It's not surprising that they have been a top option for buyers of luxury appliances today. It is essential to weigh the pros and cons of each before making a choice.