Five Integrated Fridge Lessons From The Pros

Choosing an Integrated Fridge For Your Kitchen Remodel

An integrated refrigerator is in a flush position with your cabinetry and counter, blending seamlessly into your kitchen design. They also provide more flexibility in customization with panel-ready options and integrated handles.

These features are the reason why a lot of homeowners choose to have an integrated refrigerator over a freestanding one. However, this kind of refrigerator can also come with some drawbacks.

Size

The integrated fridge-freezers are integrated into the kitchen cabinets and give a sleek appearance that appears to be a continuation of the cabinets. This makes them perfect for contemporary and country cottage-style kitchens. There are several factors to consider prior to purchasing an integrated refrigerator.

One of the most important aspects to consider is the size. Integrated refrigerators are available in a variety of widths, to accommodate various kitchen sizes. They also stand larger than freestanding refrigerators, so you can store more food items without needing a second one.

Another aspect to consider is the depth. Freestanding fridges are typically counter-depth, integrated refrigerators are higher than this. The range of storage options is limited because they won't fit in all kitchen cabinets.

The last thing to consider is that you must consider the style of the door. Refrigerators with integrated doors can be fitted with either a 'fixed' hinge or a sliding hinge. It's important to be aware of this since it can affect the way the refrigerator's doors open and close. You'll have to decide if you want to split the freezer and fridge parts 50:50 or 60/40.

Aesthetics

There are various styles available for kitchen refrigerators of today. Some fridges have a standout color or panel that makes them stand out while others have a sleek exterior that blends into the rest of interior design. If you want a more discrete look, an integrated or built in fridge may be right for your home. Spencer's TV & Appliance can help you select the ideal integrated refrigerator for your kitchen renovation.

Integrated refrigerators are designed to sit perfectly with your cabinets, making them a perfect choice for those looking to create a seamless kitchen aesthetic. The door panel matches the cabinetry, so it is difficult to tell the difference between the refrigerator and the cabinets. They are also ideal for kitchens with smaller spaces as well as open-plan living spaces because they can help make the space more organized and keep it feeling streamlined.

The most common type of integrated refrigerator is the bottom freezer. This model allows you to store larger items like fish, meat, and other 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 has a separate temperature control so you can set it to the perfect serving temperature.

Another type of integrated refrigerator is the French-door model. This model of refrigerator features an elegant stainless steel finish that can be matched to your kitchen cabinets. It's a great option for modern homes and comes with a handleless door that gives it a luxury look. You can also customize your refrigerator by choosing different finishes and colors.

Stores

Integrated refrigerators are integrated into the fridge housing or existing cabinetry of your kitchen creating an elegant look with no forward protrusions. These kinds of refrigerators are sought-after by homeowners who want to create a modern, high-end look in their kitchens. They conceal the appliance from sight. These fridges are also quieter and Fridge Freezer Deals more efficient than freestanding models.

You can pick from various storage options. For example, you can opt for 50:50 models, which offer equal space in the fridge and freezer. This lets you store anything from leftovers and fresh produce to frozen meats, ice cream, and even leftovers. You can also choose 60/40 splits or 70/30 models, which have more space for freezers and a smaller fridge freezer deals.

Many refrigerators with integrated refrigeration come with a drawer for storing meat and fish at 0degC, which improves preservation and extends shelf life. There is also a variety of fruit and vegetable drawers which can be controlled by humidity to ensure that fresh food to stay fresh and healthy.

Certain models also come with an enclosed freezer compartment that helps protect food from frost and ice crystals. This kind of appliance would be ideal for those who love baking, freezing, and cooking from scratch.

A separate freezer drawer is a great option for large platters, dishes, and containers for takeaway food items. This can help protect fresh food from freezer burn and also reduce the need for regular defrosting, which keeps your freezer and fridge in top condition.

Flexibility

Unlike freestanding refrigerators, integrated fridges cannot be relocated easily when you are renovating your home or move. They are incorporated into kitchen cabinets and are designed to blend with the the decor in your home.

This kind of refrigerator is usually found in kitchens or homes with a contemporary, stylish design. The fridge is concealed behind doors to cabinets that are typically made of a wood or stainless steel that has been brushed to create an elegant appearance that blends into the surrounding decor. Smart home apps can be used to connect your refrigerator and other appliances so that they can communicate and respond to commands and eventually become part of a larger home control system.

Despite their appealing appearance integrated refrigerators do have some disadvantages. For starters, they tend to be more expensive than freestanding refrigerators. This disparity is not due to superior mechanical systems or performance. It's because integrated fridges are marketed to a luxury market that is willing to pay more for upscale design.

Installing an integrated refrigerator can be expensive, as it requires modifications in your kitchen. This involves cutting out or removing any fillers that are in the way and installing a bridging cupboard above the fridge to accommodate the door frame. Typically, integrated fridges are higher than freestanding ones which means they can leave an opening at the top. This may mean you need to add a cross-over cabinet to hide the gap and provide an aesthetic solution. If you're happy with the design of your kitchen it isn't an issue. If you'd like to alter it in the near future, you may need to install an over-the-counter cabinet to conceal the gap.

Cost

The fridge freezers that are integrated cost more than freestanding models due to their sleek design and permanent installation. This is due to designing cooling technology 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 premium design that doesn't clash with the style of their kitchen. They also require more skilled installation compared to other fridges. This could add a significant amount to the final cost.

As an added benefit, integrated fridge freezers provide an increase in energy efficiency. These models are well-insulated and allow cold air to be confined inside. This leads to less temperature fluctuations and reduced energy consumption. Furthermore, since the doors are inset they do not protrude from the cabinetry, which could create a more spacious and open feel inside.

The freezer area of an integrated refrigerator is typically smaller than the one is found on standalone models but it still provides plenty of storage space to store fresh food items as well as frozen items. Many integrated fridge models have 50:50 splits that allow equal storage space for freezing and refrigeration.

The advantages of an integrated refrigerator are numerous. They provide a seamless appearance that blends into custom cabinetry, which helps to create a more cohesive kitchen layout. They are a great choice for flexibility and storage, and can be outfitted with a variety of features that enhance functionality. It's not surprising that they've become a popular choice for buyers of luxury appliances today. It is crucial to consider the advantages and disadvantages of each before making a choice.