What Is Integrated Fridge And How To Use It

Choosing an Integrated Fridge For Your Kitchen Remodel

An integrated refrigerator is close to your counter and cabinets to seamlessly blend into your kitchen design. With panel-ready options and inset handles, they also offer an increased degree of customization.

These features are the reason why a lot of homeowners choose to have an integrated fridge instead of freestanding models. However, this style of refrigerator comes with some disadvantages.

Size

Integrated fridge-freezers are integrated into the kitchen cabinets and provide a sleek look that looks like an extension of the cabinets. This makes them ideal for frydge contemporary and country cottage-style kitchens. There are a few things to consider prior to purchasing an integrated refrigerator.

The size is a major aspect to take into consideration. Integrated refrigerators come in different widths, to accommodate different kitchen sizes. They're also typically larger than freestanding fridges, allowing you to store more food items in them without the necessity of a second fridge.

Another factor to consider is the depth. While freestanding refrigerators are usually counter-depth, integrated fridges sit deeper than this. The variety of storage options is limited, because they won't fit into all kitchen cabinets.

Lastly, you should be aware of the door's design. Refrigerators that are integrated can be equipped with either a fixed hinge or a sliding hinge. This is important because it affects how the fridge doors open and shut. You'll also have to decide whether you want a 50:50 split or a 60/40 split, since this will affect the amount of space that is allocated to the freezer and fridge sections.

Aesthetics

There are a variety of styles available for refrigerators in the kitchen today. Certain refrigerators feature a distinctive color or design, whereas others feature a sleek design that blends with the other decor. If you're looking for a more discreet style then an integrated or built-in fridge may be the right 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 sit flush with your cabinets, making them an ideal option for those who want to create a seamless kitchen aesthetic. They come with a door panel that is a match to your cabinetry so you can't know where the refrigerator's finish and the cabinets begin. They're also an excellent choice for those who have small kitchens or open-plan living spaces, because they help reduce clutter and make it appear more organized.

The most commonly used type of integrated refrigerator is the bottom-freezer. This model lets you store larger items like fish, meat, and other vegetables without sacrificing valuable storage space. It comes with a bonus middle drawer that can be used to store wine or charcuterie prior to guests arriving. The drawer is equipped with a separate temperature controller so you can set the temperature to your preferences.

Another type of integrated refrigerator is the French-door model. This kind of fridge features sleek stainless-looking finish that will match the kitchen cabinets. This is a great choice for modern homes. It has a handleless front door that gives it an air of luxurious. You can also customize your refrigerator by selecting various colors and Frydge finishes.

Stores

Integrated fridges integrate into the fridge housing or existing cabinets in your kitchen creating an uncluttered look without forward protrusions. These types of refrigerators are sought-after by homeowners who want to create a modern, high-end look in their kitchens. They hide the appliance from view. They are also quieter and more efficient than freestanding models.

You can pick from a range of storage options such as 50:50 models that provide equal freezer and fridge space that allows you to store everything from fresh produce and leftovers to frozen meats and ice cream. You can also pick 60/40 splits or 70/30 models, which come with a larger fridge space and smaller freezer.

Many refrigerators with integrated refrigeration 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 ensure that fresh food items stay fresh and healthy.

Some models come with a "frozen compartment' which helps protect food from freezing and frost. This kind of appliance is perfect when you love baking, freezing and cooking from scratch and want to make sure that your homemade creations will last as long as you can.

Another great feature is the option to create a separate freezer drawer to store large platters, bowls and containers for takeaway food. This helps to keep fresh food safe from freezing burn and decrease the need for frequent defrosting, which keeps your fridge and freezer in pristine condition.

Flexibility

Unlike freestanding fridges integrated refrigerators aren't easily moved during renovations to your kitchen or move house. They are incorporated into kitchen cabinets and are designed to complement the rest of the decor of your home.

This kind of fridge is typically found in stylish kitchens or in homes which require a premium contemporary design. The fridge is concealed behind doors that are constructed from wood or stainless steel that is brushed to blend with the decor. Smart home apps can be used to connect your fridge and other appliances so that they can communicate, respond to commands, and be part of a bigger home control system.

While integrated refrigerators may be stunning in terms of design, they do have some drawbacks. They are more expensive than freestanding refrigerators. This is not to be attributed to mechanical systems or better performance. It's due to the fact that integrated refrigerators are aimed at the market of luxury that is willing to pay a premium price for the upscale design and performance.

Additionally, the installation of an integrated refrigerator can be costly, as it requires changes to your kitchen. This involves cutting or removing any fillers, and adding a bridging cupboard above the fridge to accommodate the door frame. Typically, integrated fridges are taller than freestanding ones and can leave gaps at the top. This may require you to build a cross-over cabinet to hide the gap and provide a more aesthetically pleasing solution. This is not an issue If you're content to keep your fridge in the same place it is, but it's something to think about if you plan on changing your kitchen layout in the near future.

Cost

Integrated fridge freezers cost more than freestanding models due to their sleek design and permanent installation. This is a result of designing cooling technology to fit in a smaller space and the fact that a lot of homeowners are willing to pay more for a refrigerator with a premium design that isn't in conflict with the style of their kitchen. Adding to this they require more expert installation than other fridges that can increase the final price.

As an added benefit integrated fridge freezers offer improved energy efficiency. Because the exterior of these models are hidden they are well-insulated to keep cold air from getting inside, which results in less temperature fluctuations and lower energy consumption. Additionally, since the doors are inset they don't extend out from the cabinetry, which could give a more open and open feeling inside.

The freezer area on integrated fridges will be smaller than the one found in standalone models. However, it has plenty of space to store fresh food items and frozen products. Many integrated fridge models come with 50:50 splits, which provide equal storage space for freezing and refrigeration.

Ultimately, the advantages of an integrated refrigerator are numerous. They offer a seamless look that blends seamlessly with custom cabinets, which help to create a more harmonious kitchen layout. They also offer the highest capacity for storage and flexibility, and are equipped with a variety of features to improve functionality. It's no surprise that they are a popular choice among consumers of luxury appliances today. It is crucial to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each prior to making a decision.