A Guide To Integrated Fridge From Beginning To End
Choosing an Integrated Fridge For Your Kitchen Remodel
A built-in refrigerator is flush with your cabinets and counters and blends seamlessly into the style of your kitchen. With panel-ready options and integrated handles, they also provide greater flexibility in customization.
These are the reasons why many homeowners choose to have an integrated fridge over freestanding ones. However, this style of refrigerator also comes with some disadvantages.
Size
Integrated fridge freezers sit completely flush with the kitchen's cabinetry and provide a sleek look that appears to be an extension of the cabinets. This makes them perfect for modern and country cottage-style kitchens. However there are some things to think about before making the decision to purchase an integrated refrigerator.
One of the most important aspects to take into consideration is the size. Refrigerators with integrated features are available in different widths to accommodate different kitchen sizes. They're also typically taller than freestanding fridges and allow you to store more food in them without the necessity of a second fridge.
The depth is a different aspect to consider. While freestanding fridges are often counter-depth, fridge-freezer integrated fridges sit higher than this. The number of storage options is limited because they won't fit in all kitchen cabinets.
Lastly, you should consider the door's design. Refrigerators that are integrated can be equipped with either a fixed hinge or a sliding hinge. This is crucial because it will affect the way that refrigerator doors open and close. You'll also need to decide if you'd like a 50:50 split or a 60/40 split, since this will impact how much space is allocated to the freezer and fridge for sale sections.
Aesthetics
There are many different styles of kitchen refrigerators that are on the market today. Certain refrigerators are distinguished by a color or design that makes them look unique, and some have sleek exteriors that blend into the rest of the room's design. If you're looking for a more discreet appearance, then an integrated or built-in refrigerator might be the perfect fit for your home. Our team at Spencer's TV & Appliance is here to assist you in finding the right integrated refrigerator for your kitchen remodel.
Integrated fridges are designed to be in a flush position with your cabinets and are the ideal option for those looking to create a unified kitchen design. The door panels match the cabinetry so that it is difficult to discern a distinction between the refrigerator and the cabinets. They are also great for kitchens with small spaces and Fridge-Freezer open-plan living areas, as they can reduce clutter and make it appear more organized.
The most popular type of integrated refrigerator is the bottom freezer. This model permits larger items such as meat, fish, and vegetables to be stored without having to sacrifice storage space. It also features a middle bonus drawer which can be used to store wine storage or for storing a charcuterie board before friends visit. The drawer is equipped with a separate temperature control that allows you to adjust the temperature to your preferences.
The French-door style is another well-liked integrated refrigerator. This kind of fridge features an elegant stainless finish that will match the kitchen cabinets. It's a great option for modern homes. It also features a door with no handles that gives it a luxury feel. It's also simple to personalize your refrigerator by choosing different colors and finishes.
Storage
Integrated fridges integrate into the fridge housing or existing cabinets in your kitchen, giving it an uncluttered look without forward protrusions. These types of refrigerators are popular among homeowners who want to create a modern elegant look in their kitchens. They hide the appliance from sight. They are also quieter and more efficient than freestanding models.
You can pick between various storage options. For instance you can choose 50:50 models that offer equally space in the fridge and freezer. This allows you to store anything from leftovers and fresh produce, to frozen meats, ice cream and even leftovers. You can also select 60/40 splits, or 70/30 models, which have a larger freezer and smaller fridge.
Many refrigerators with integrated refrigeration come with a drawer for storing fish and meat at 0degC, which improves preservation and increases shelf life. There are also a range of drawers for vegetables and fruits that can be controlled by humidity to help your fresh food stay crisp and healthy.
Some models also have an insulated compartment for frozen food which protects food from frost and ice crystals. This kind of appliance is ideal when you love baking, freezing and cooking from scratch and want to make sure that your home-cooked creations last as long as you can.
Another handy feature is the ability to add a separate 'freezer drawer that can be used for large bowls, platters and containers for takeaway food. This will protect your food from freezer damage and reduce the necessity to defrost frequently.
Flexibility
Unlike freestanding refrigerators, integrated fridges aren't able to be relocated easily when you are renovating your home or move. They are incorporated into kitchen cabinets and are designed to complement the rest of the decor of your home.
This type of refrigerator is usually found in kitchens and homes with a contemporary, high-end aesthetic. The fridge is concealed behind doors for cabinets constructed from wood or stainless steel that is brushed to blend with the decor. Refrigerators with integrated systems can be integrated with smart home applications that connect your fridge freezer for sale and other appliances to communicate with one with each other, respond to commands and form part of a larger home control system.
Despite their appealing appearance integrated refrigerators do have some disadvantages. They are more expensive than freestanding refrigerators. 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.
Additionally, the installation of an integrated refrigerator is costly as it requires changes to your kitchen. These include cutting or taking out any fillers that could be blocking the fridge's entrance and putting a bridging cabinet above the fridge to fit the door frame. Typically, integrated fridges are taller than freestanding ones which means they can leave gaps at the top. It is possible to add an extra cross-over cabinet to cover the gap. This makes it more visually pleasing. This isn't a problem If you're content to keep your fridge as it is, but it's something to consider if you are planning to change your kitchen's layout in the future.
Cost
Refrigerators with integrated freezers are more expensive than freestanding models because of their sleek appearance and long-lasting installation. This is a result of designing cooling systems to fit in a smaller space and the fact that a lot of homeowners are willing to spend more money for a refrigerator with a stylish design that isn't in conflict with the style of their kitchen. Additionally they require more expert installation than other fridges that can increase the final price.
As an added benefit, integrated fridge freezers provide improved energy efficiency. Since the exterior of these models are concealed, they are well-insulated to keep cold air from getting within, which results in less temperature fluctuations and lower energy consumption. In addition, because 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 area of an integrated fridge is usually smaller than that found on standalone models, but it can still offer plenty of storage space to store fresh food items and frozen items. Many integrated fridge models come with 50:50 splits, which allow equal storage for refrigeration and freezing.
The benefits of a fridge that is integrated are numerous. They have a seamless appearance which blends seamlessly with custom cabinets to create a unified layout. They offer superior flexibility and storage space, and can be outfitted with a variety of features that can enhance the functionality. It's not a surprise that they're an increasingly sought-after choice for people who are looking for a luxury appliance. It is important to take into consideration the pros and cons of each before making a choice.