A How-To Guide For Integrated Fridge From Start To Finish
Choosing an Integrated Fridge For Your Kitchen Remodel
An integrated refrigerator is flush with your counter and cabinetry and blends seamlessly into the kitchen design. They also offer more flexibility in customization by incorporating panel-ready options and handles.
Many homeowners prefer an integrated refrigerator over a separate one because of these features. This type of fridge may be a bit limiting.
Size
The integrated fridge-freezers are in line with the kitchen cabinets and provide a sleek look that resembles a continuation of the cabinets. They are ideal for kitchens with a modern or country cottage style. However, there are a few things to think about before you decide to purchase an integrated refrigerator.
One of the most important factors to consider is the size. Integrated refrigerators come in different widths to accommodate various sizes of kitchens. They're also typically taller than freestanding fridges which allows you to store more food items in them without the necessity of another fridge.
Another thing to take into consideration is the depth. Freestanding fridges are typically counter-depth, integrated fridges sit higher than this. This could limit the number of storage options available, since they won't fit in all existing kitchen cabinets.
The last thing to consider is that you should take into consideration the design of the door. Integrated refrigerators can be fitted with either a 'fixed' hinge or a sliding hinge model. This is important as it will affect how the doors of the refrigerator open and close. It is also important to decide whether you want a 50:50 split or a 60/40 split, as this will impact how much space is allotted to the freezer and fridge sections.
Aesthetics
There are a variety of styles available for kitchen refrigerators of today. Certain refrigerators are distinguished by a color or panel that gives them a unique look, and some have a sleek exterior that blends into the the room's design. If you're seeking a more subtle appearance and style, then an integrated or built-in refrigerator may be the right fit for your home. Spencer's TV & Appliance can help you choose the perfect integrated refrigerator for your kitchen renovation.
Integrated refrigerators are designed to fit in a flush position with your cabinets and are the ideal choice for those who want to create a unified kitchen aesthetic. They have a door panel that is a match to your cabinetry so you can't know where the refrigerator's finish and the cabinets begin. 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 make it appear more organized.
The most commonly used type of integrated refrigerator is the bottom freezer. This model allows for larger items such as fish, meat and even vegetables to be kept without losing storage space. It also has a middle bonus drawer that can be used for wine storage or to store a charcuterie board before friends come over for a visit. The drawer comes with an additional temperature control, so you can set it to the ideal serving temperature.
Another type of integrated refrigerator is the French-door model. 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 has a handleless door which gives it a classy look. It's also simple to personalize your refrigerator by choosing different colors and finishes.
Storage
Integrated fridges integrate into the fridge's housing or cabinets in your kitchen, giving it a seamless look without any forward protrusions. These kinds of refrigerators are a popular choice for homeowners who want to create a contemporary or high-end kitchen style that hides the appliance from the view of. They also provide an efficient, quieter way to cool your food than freestanding refrigerators.
You can pick from a variety of storage options like 50:50 models, which provide equal freezer and cheapest fridge freezers Uk space that allows you to store everything from fresh produce and leftovers to frozen meats and ice cream. You can also pick 60/40 splits or 70/30 models with a larger freezer and smaller fridge.
A majority of integrated fridges have a drawer that stores meat and fish at 0degC which helps preserve food and extends shelf life. Fruit and vegetable drawers can be controlled by humidity, making sure that your food is fresh and healthy.
Some models also have an insulated compartment for frozen food that helps protect food from ice crystals and frost. This type of appliance is perfect when you love baking and freezing, or cooking from scratch and want to ensure that your creations made from scratch last as long as you can.
A separate 'freezer drawer' is a great option for large platters, dishes and containers for takeaway food items. This helps to protect fresh food from freezing burn and decrease the need for regular defrosting, which keeps your fridge and freezer in top condition.
Flexibility
In contrast to freestanding fridges, integrated refrigerators can't be easily moved when you remodel your kitchen or move home. This is because they are integrated into kitchen cabinets and are designed to look like a seamless piece of furniture and match the interior decor of your home.
This type of refrigerator is usually found in kitchens or homes that are modern and elegant design. The fridge is hidden behind cabinet doors that are usually made of wood or brushed stainless steel material to create an elegant appearance that blends in with the surrounding decor. Refrigerators with integrated systems can be integrated with smart home apps that allow your refrigerator and other appliances to communicate with each other, respond to commands, and eventually become part of a bigger home control system.
Although integrated refrigerators are amazing in terms of aesthetics however, they have a few disadvantages. For one, they tend to be more expensive than freestanding refrigerators. This is not to do with mechanical systems or better performance. It's because integrated refrigerators are designed for a luxury market that is willing to pay a premium price for the upscale design and functionality.
Installing an integrated refrigerator can be expensive due to the need for modifications in your kitchen. This involves cutting or removing any fillers in the way and installing an additional bridging cabinet above the fridge to accommodate its door frame. In addition, integrated fridges are generally larger than freestanding models and can leave a visible gap on the top of your cabinetry. You might need to install a cross over cabinet to cover the gap. This makes it more visually pleasing. This isn't a problem for those who are content with keeping your fridge in the same place it is, but it is something to consider if intend to alter your kitchen's layout in the near future.
Cost
The fridge freezers that are integrated cost more than freestanding models because of their sleek design and long-lasting installation. This is due to the design of cooling technology that can fit into a smaller space and also due to the fact that many homeowners will spend more on refrigerators with a classy look that does not clash with their kitchen style. They also require more professional installation than other refrigerators. This can add significant cost to the final price.
The integrated fridge freezers also offer better energy efficiency. Because the exterior of these models are concealed and well-insulated, they keep cold air from getting within, which results in fewer temperature fluctuations and lower energy usage. Furthermore, since the doors are inset they don't protrude from the cabinetry, which could give a more open and open feel inside.
The freezer area of an integrated refrigerator is usually smaller than that is found on standalone models but it still provides plenty of storage space to store fresh food and frozen items. Moreover, many integrated fridge freezer to buy models feature 50:50 splits that allow for equal refrigeration space and freezer space.
The advantages of having integrated refrigerators are enormous. They have a seamless appearance that blends in with custom cabinetry to create a unified layout. They also have superior storage capacity and flexibility, and can be fitted with a range of features that enhance the functionality. It's no surprise that they are an increasingly sought-after choice for consumers of luxury appliances today. It is important to consider the advantages and disadvantages of each prior to making a decision.