A Reference To Integrated Fridge From Beginning To End
Choosing an Integrated Fridge For Your Kitchen Remodel
A built-in refrigerator is in a flush with your counters and cabinets and blends seamlessly into the style of your kitchen. They also offer more flexibility in customization with panel-ready options as well as integrated handles.
These features are why many homeowners opt for an integrated fridge over freestanding ones. This style of fridge can have a few drawbacks.
Size
Integrated fridge-freezers are integrated into the kitchen cabinets and offer a sleek design that resembles an extension of the cabinets. They are great for kitchens with a modern or country cottage style. There are a few things to consider prior fridges to purchasing an integrated refrigerator.
One of the most important factors to take into consideration is the size. Integrated refrigerators come in a variety of sizes to fit various kitchen sizes. They are also taller than freestanding refrigerators, which means you can store more food items without needing a second.
Another factor to consider is the depth. Freestanding fridges are typically under counter fridge-depth, integrated refrigerators are higher than this. The number of storage options is limited, because they won't fit into all kitchen cabinets.
The last thing to consider is that you should take into consideration the design of the door. Refrigerators that are integrated come with either a hinge that is fixed or a sliding model. It is important to know this since it can affect how the fridge's doors open and close. You'll also need to decide whether you want a 50:50 or 60/40 split. This will affect the amount of space that is allocated to the freezer and fridge sections.
Aesthetics
There are many different styles of kitchen refrigerators on the market today. Some refrigerators have a unique color or design, while others have a sleek style that blends with the decor. If you're looking for a more discrete style, an integrated or built in fridge may be right for your home. Our team at Spencer's TV & Appliance is here to help you locate the perfect integrated refrigerator for your kitchen remodeling.
Integrated refrigerators are designed to fit perfectly with your cabinets, making them an ideal choice for those looking to create a seamless kitchen. The door panel is matched to the cabinetry, so you won't be able to tell the difference between the fridge and the cabinets. They're also a great choice for those who have small kitchens or living spaces that are open because they help declutter the space and keep it feeling streamlined.
The most common style of integrated fridge is a bottom freezer refrigerator. This model lets you store larger items such as meat, fish and vegetables without sacrificing valuable storage space. It also has a middle drawer that can be used to store wine or appetizer before guests arrive. The drawer comes with an independent temperature control so that you can set it to the perfect serving temperature.
The French-door design is another well-liked integrated refrigerator. This model of refrigerator features an elegant stainless steel look that is designed to match the kitchen cabinets. It's a great option for modern homes. It also features a door with no handles which gives it a classy appearance. You can also customize your refrigerator by picking various colors and finishes.
Storage
Integrated fridges integrate into the fridge housing or existing cabinetry in your kitchen creating a seamless look without any forward protrusions. These kinds of refrigerators are popular among homeowners who want to create a modern and luxurious look for their kitchens. They conceal the appliance from sight. They also provide a quieter, more efficient way to cool your food items than freestanding refrigerators.
You can pick from a variety of storage options such as 50:50 models that offer a similar fridge and freezer space that allows you to store everything from fresh produce and leftovers to frozen meats and fridges ice cream. You can also select 60/40 splits, or 70/30 models that have more space for freezers and a smaller fridge.
Many integrated fridges have an additional drawer to store meat and fish at 0degC to ensure its preservation and increase its shelf time. There are also a variety of drawers for vegetables and fruits that can be controlled by humidity to help your fresh food stay crisp and healthy.
Certain models have a "frozen compartment' that protects food from ice and frost. This kind of appliance is ideal for those who love baking, freezing and cooking from scratch and want to make sure that your homemade creations will last as long as is possible.
Another handy feature is the ability to install a separate 'freezer drawer that can be used for large platters, bowls and containers for takeaway food. This will shield your food from freezer damage and decrease the need to defrost regularly.
Flexibility
In contrast to freestanding fridges that are freestanding, integrated refrigerators cannot be easily moved when you remodel your kitchen or move home. This is because they are built into kitchen cabinets and are designed to look like a seamless piece of furniture and match the interior decor of your home.
This kind of fridge is usually utilized in kitchens with a stylised design or in homes which require a premium modern design. The fridge is hidden behind doors for cabinets that are typically constructed of wood or polished stainless steel to give it an elegant appearance that blends into the decor. Smart home apps can be used to connect your refrigerator and other appliances so that they can communicate and respond to commands and be part of a bigger home control system.
While integrated refrigerators can be rockstars in terms of aesthetics, they do have some drawbacks. They are, for one, likely to be more expensive than freestanding fridges. This is not to do with mechanical systems or superior performance. It's due to the fact that integrated refrigerators are targeted at a luxury market who are willing to pay a premium price for the high-end design and functionality.
Installing an integrated refrigerator can be costly, as it requires modifications in your kitchen. These include cutting or the fillers that may be in the way and installing a bridging cabinet above the fridge to allow for the door frame. Additionally, integrated refrigerators are generally larger than freestanding models and can leave an unsightly gap on the top of your cabinetry. This could require you to add an additional cabinet that can cover the gap and offer an aesthetic solution. If you're content with the layout of your kitchen as it is then this shouldn't be a problem. But, if you want to change it in the future you might need to add a cross-over cabinet to hide the gap.
Cost
Refrigerators with integrated freezers are more expensive than freestanding models because of their sleek appearance and permanent installation. This is due to the layout of cooling technology that allows them to fit in a small space and also due to the fact that many homeowners will spend more on an appliance with a high-end design that is not in conflict with their kitchen design. Additionally they require more expert installation than other fridges, which can also add significant amounts to the final cost.
Additionally integrated fridge freezers offer enhanced energy efficiency. Since 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. Additionally, since the doors are inset and not protruding out of the cabinetry. This creates a feeling of spaciousness and openness within.
The freezer section on integrated fridges will be smaller than the ones that is found on standalone models. However, it still 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 for both freezing and refrigeration.
Ultimately, the advantages of an integrated refrigerator are vast. They feature a seamless design that blends in with custom cabinetry to create a more cohesive layout. They also offer the highest capacity for storage and flexibility, and are fitted with a range of features that enhance the functionality. It's no surprise that they're an increasingly sought-after choice for consumers of luxury appliances today. But, it's important to weigh all the advantages and disadvantages before making a decision on one for your home.