Choosing an Integrated Fridge For Your Kitchen Remodel
A built-in fridge is flush with your counters and cabinets, blending seamlessly into the style of your kitchen. They also allow for more flexibility in customization by incorporating panel-ready options and handles.
Many homeowners choose an integrated refrigerator over a standalone one due to these features. However, this type of refrigerator comes with some disadvantages.
Size
The fridge freezers integrated into the refrigerator are flush with the kitchen's cabinetry and provide a sleek look that looks like an extension of the cabinets. They are perfect for kitchens that have a modern or country cottage style. There are a few factors to consider prior to purchasing an integrated refrigerator.
The size is an important aspect to take into consideration. Integrated refrigerators come in different widths to accommodate various sizes of kitchens. They are also higher than freestanding refrigerators so you can store more food without needing a second one.
Another aspect 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 since they cannot be fitted in all kitchen cabinets.
The last thing to consider is that you must think about the design of the door. Refrigerators with integrated doors are available with either a fixed hinge or sliding model. It's important to note this as it affects how the fridge's doors open and close. You'll need to decide if you'd like to divide the freezer and fridge parts 50:50 or 60/40.
Aesthetics
There are many different styles of kitchen refrigerators available on the market today. Certain refrigerators are distinguished by a color or panel that gives them a unique look while others have an elegant exterior that blends into the the room's design. If you're looking for a more discreet look, then an integrated fridge or built-in one might be the perfect choice for your home. Our team at Spencer's TV & Appliance is here to help you locate the perfect integrated refrigerator for your kitchen renovation.
Integrated refrigerators are designed to sit perfectly with your cabinets, making them a great option for those wanting to create a seamless kitchen design. The door panel is matched to the cabinetry so that you can't discern the distinction between the refrigerator and the cabinets. They are also great for kitchens with smaller spaces as well as open-plan living spaces as they help to reduce clutter and keep it looking clean.
The most commonly used type of integrated refrigerator is the bottom freezer. This type of refrigerator allows larger items such as meat, fish and other vegetables to be kept without having to sacrifice storage space. It also features a middle drawer that can be used for wine storage or for storing a charcuterie board before friends visit. The drawer is equipped with a separate temperature control which allows you to set the temperature to your liking.
The French-door design is another popular integrated fridge. This kind of refrigerator comes with an elegant stainless steel look that will match your kitchen cabinets. It's a great choice for modern homes and 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
The integrated refrigerators are built into the existing cabinetry or refrigerator housings in your kitchen. This gives it an uncluttered appearance with no protrusions. These types of refrigerators are popular with homeowners who are looking to create a modern and luxurious look for their kitchens. They hide the appliance from view. They are also more quiet and more efficient than freestanding models.
You can pick from various storage options. For instance you can choose 50:50 models that offer the same amount of space in the freezer and fridge. This allows you to 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 bigger freezers and smaller fridge.
A majority of integrated fridges include a drawer to store meat and fish at 0degC which helps preserve food and increases shelf life. Fruit and vegetable drawers can be controlled by humidity, making sure that your food stays fresh and healthy.
Some models come with a "frozen compartment' which helps protect food from freezing and frost. This type of appliance is ideal when you love baking or freezing food from scratch and want to ensure that your homemade creations will last as long as is possible.
Another great feature is the ability to add a separate 'freezer' drawer for large platters, bowls and containers of takeaway food. This will 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
In contrast to freestanding refrigerators, integrated fridges cannot be relocated easily when you are renovating your home or move. They are fitted into the kitchen cabinetry and are designed to look seamless and match with the rest of your home's decor.
This kind of fridge is usually found in stylish kitchens or homes which require a premium modern design. The fridge is concealed behind doors for cabinets constructed of wood or stainless steel that is brushed to blend with the decor. Integrated fridges can also be integrated with smart home applications that connect your refrigerator and other appliances to communicate with one and respond to commands and form part of a bigger home control system.
While integrated refrigerators can be amazing in terms of aesthetics however, they have a few drawbacks. They're more expensive than freestanding refrigerators. This disparity is not due to better mechanical systems or performance. It's because integrated fridges are targeted towards a premium market, which is willing to pay more for elegant design.
Additionally, the installation of an integrated fridge can be costly, as it requires modifications to your kitchen. This includes cutting or taking out any fillers that could be in the way and putting a bridging cabinet above the fridge to accommodate the door frame. Integrated fridges tend to be taller than freestanding ones which means they can leave gaps at the top. This could require you to install an additional cabinet that can cover the gap and offer an attractive solution. This is not an issue if you're happy to keep your fridge where it is, but it is something to think about if you plan on changing your kitchen's layout in the near future.
Cost
Refrigerators with integrated freezers are more expensive than freestanding models due to their sleek design and their permanent installation. This is due to the design of cooling technology that can fit into a small space and also the fact that many homeowners are willing to pay more for a refrigerator with a high-end design that isn't in conflict with the style of their kitchen. Adding to this, they require more professional installation than other refrigerators that can add a considerable amount to the final price.
Refrigerators with integrated freezers also offer better energy efficiency. These models are well insulated which allows cold air to stay inside. This leads to lower temperature fluctuations and less energy consumption. Additionally, since doors are inset, they do not protrude out of the cabinetry. This can give an illusion of spaciousness and openness within.
The freezer area of a fridge integrated is usually smaller than those found on standalone models, however, it still offers plenty of storage space to store fresh food items and frozen items. Moreover, many integrated fridge models feature 50:50 splits that allow for equal refrigeration space and freezing space.
best fridges uk of having integrated refrigerators are huge. They are sleek and stylish that blends with custom cabinetry to create a more unified layout. They offer superior flexibility and storage space, and are also able to be fitted with a range of features that can enhance the functionality. As a result, it's not surprising that they have become a top choice for luxury appliances buyers in the present. However, it is important to consider all the advantages and disadvantages before making a decision on one for your home.