14 Smart Ways To Spend Your Extra Integrated Fridge Frezer Budget
Choosing an Integrated Fridge Freezer
If you prefer a uniform design, a refrigerator freezer can be easily integrated into the cabinet doors in the kitchen. In contrast to freestanding appliances they can be hidden from view when not in use.
These fridge freezers are designed to make life easier by reducing chores like defrosting and incorporating convenience features like adjustable shelves as well as twin vegetable and fruit bins, and door racks.
Capacity
Integrated models are more sought-after than those that are freestanding. These appliances do a great job of disappearing from sight behind cabinet doors, creating a sleek and uncluttered appearance that is a great fit in a variety of kitchen designs. This makes them an excellent choice if you're planning to revamp your kitchen or are creating it from scratch. Apart from their aesthetic appeal, they provide plenty of storage space, so you can keep all your food and drinks conveniently within reach.
When you are deciding on an integrated fridge freezer there are a few things you should take into consideration. In the first place you'll need to think about the capacity of the appliance. Storage in the fridge and freezer is usually measured in litres, therefore it's crucial to know the amount you'll need before purchasing. You'll want to choose one with a large enough capacity for your needs however, it should not be too big so you don't overuse your energy or end up with a surplus of.
Depending on the size of your family is, you may be considering a bigger capacity appliance. A 350-litre capacity is perfect for families of all sizes, and can hold up to 19 grocery bags. Some manufacturers provide integrated fridge freezers that have capacities of 420 litres. This is perfect for families with children who are larger.
Another factor to consider is the quality of the appliance. The cheaper models might not be as durable as more expensive counterparts. Hinges can also be a problem, as they are often less durable. You'll need a product with sturdy Hettich and Ingol hinges. They'll last for many years.
If you're replacing an old integrated fridge freezer, make sure to choose a similar model in terms of size and split style. You'll need to make sure that your kitchen cupboard doors are large enough to accommodate the new fridge-freezer and that both the fridge and the freezer are identical in height, usually 178cm. If you're planning to build a new kitchen, be sure your plans align with these dimensions so you can find a fridge freezer that fits.
Design
The integrated fridge-freezers are designed to seamlessly into your cabinetry without compromising the look you've achieved so hard for. They integrate a refrigerator and freezer into one unit. This is an ideal option for those looking to make the most of their space.
Based on the brand the fridge freezers that are integrated offer a wide variety of designs to suit different styles of interior. There are numerous models available, from fully clad ones that blend in with the cabinets in your kitchen to panels that let you show your individuality.
Fully integrated fridge freezers are equipped with cabinet mounting brackets that anchor the appliance to the front of the kitchen cabinets, hiding it completely. This design allows you to customize the fridge freezer integrated to match your fitted kitchen. It also reduces noise and enhances the temperature control.
The door openings of fridge freezers that are integrated differ - you can get a'midi' height model that is around 130cm high, whereas taller models are typically around 170-180cm high. You can also choose between a 50:50 split where you get equally sized fridge and freezer storage, or 60/40 or 70/30 splits in favour of larger fridge space.
Since fridge freezers that are integrated are built-in, they may be more expensive to repair or service. However, this doesn't mean you need to avoid an integrated fridge freezer because your budget is tight. There are numerous high-quality models at affordable costs.
Integrated fridge freezers are more expensive than their freestanding counterparts due the cost of building the cabinet they sit in. They also make use of larger motors to keep the fridge cool, which could lead to higher energy bills. If you choose a model with advanced food preservation technology it's possible that you can save money in the long run by wasting less food and reducing the energy use. This could translate into huge savings over the life of your fridge freezer integrated.
Energy efficiency
Refrigerators are among the most frequently used appliances in your home, which is why it is essential to select one with a good energy rating. A fridge freezer that is rated high will consume less energy than a lower-rated one and over time, this will reduce your energy costs. Look for the 'Energy Label,' which is usually found on the back or the user guide of the fridge-freezer. You can check the energy rating and consumption by hovering your phone over the label. Go to the website of the manufacturer to view the complete information.
The amount of food you keep in your fridge-freezer will also affect how much energy it uses. Larger models with more capacity will require more energy to cool than smaller models, even if they have an A+++ rating. If you're replacing a model which is older, consider how much space you'll require. Also, take a look at the internal configuration to see if there are any flexible shelves or door storage and if it is able to accommodate larger items such as milk bottles.
Another thing to think about is whether you want a frost-free model. Frost-free refrigerator freezers incorporate a heating element to prevent the formation of ice within the freezer. This will save you the hassle of having to defrost the fridge every now and again. However, there are some models out there that don't have this feature in the event that you have to defrost your fridge you must keep this in mind.
Aside from energy efficiency, it's worth looking into how easy your fridge is to keep tidy and clean. Most integrated fridge-freezers have drawers and shelves made of glass that are easy to clean. Some models also feature LED lighting that is a great bonus.
Typically integrated fridge freezers are typically more expensive than freestanding models. This is because you must pay for the fridge housing cabinet, kitchen cabinet doors and installation. It is important to be aware that integrated fridge-freezers are more prone to problems than those that are freestanding. This is mainly because installers may not provide enough ventilation to the cabinets, or fail to install them correctly that means they let in hot air and can overheat.
Convenience
A fridge freezer that is integrated offers an option for those who wish to create a sleek look in their kitchens, blending it seamlessly with their kitchen cabinetry. These models are fitted behind the cupboard doors and appear hidden from view, which is an ideal choice for those looking to achieve an updated look. A model that is integrated offers the convenience of having a refrigerator and a freezer in one appliance which makes it easier to store and organise your food items.
The disadvantage of an integrated fridge freezer is that it can be more difficult to service than a standalone model since it's built into your furniture, and removing the door from the hinges in order to access the appliance can be a challenge for the majority of kitchen engineers. This is something to keep in mind if think you'll need repair or serviced in the future, or if you're planning to sell your home and move house.
It is essential to purchase the same appliance when replacing an integrated refrigerator freezer to ensure that your cabinet doors still fit. This is because integrated fridge freezers are a standard size and can fit inside 60cm wide and 60cm deep housing cabinet so any doors that you already have on your existing cupboards should be compatible with the appliances. You should also determine the kind of hinge your current fridge freezer is fitted with whether it's a fixed or fridge-freezer sliding hinge, as this can determine how easy it is to open the doors of your cupboard.
The most recent innovations in integrated fridge freezer sale freezers have improved their performance and design. The top models are designed to be easy to use in the kitchen by making it easier to do the everyday chores. This includes minimising defrosting - or, as in the case of Blomberg, completely eliminating it - and making sure your food stays fresher for longer with smart features like HyperFresh plus, HarvestFresh salad drawers and Holiday Mode. You can expect flexible storage options complete with adjustable shelves and useful extras like wine racks, too.