Choosing an Integrated Fridge For Your Kitchen Remodel
An integrated refrigerator is close to your cabinetry and counter to seamlessly blend into your kitchen design. They also offer more flexibility in customization with panel-ready options as well as integrated handles.
These features are the reason why a lot of homeowners choose to have an integrated refrigerator over a freestanding one. This type of fridge may have some disadvantages.
Size
Integrated fridge-freezers are integrated into the kitchen cabinets and offer a sleek design that resembles a continuation of the cabinets. This makes them ideal for contemporary and country cottage-style kitchens. However there are some things to think about before you make the plunge to purchase an integrated refrigerator.
One of the biggest factors to consider is the size. Refrigerators with integrated features are available in various widths to fit various kitchen sizes. They're also typically larger than freestanding fridges which allows you to store more food items in them without the necessity of an additional fridge.
The depth is a different aspect to take into consideration. While freestanding fridges are often counter-depth, integrated fridges are deeper than this. The variety of storage options is limited, as they will not fit in all kitchen cabinets.
Lastly, you should take into account the door style. Refrigerators with integrated doors can be fitted with either a fixed hinge or a sliding hinge model. It's important to note this since it can affect how the fridge's doors open and close. You'll have to decide if you'd like to divide the freezer and fridge parts 50:50 or 60/40.
Aesthetics
There are a variety of styles of kitchen refrigerators available on the market today. Some fridges have a standout color or design that gives them a unique look and others have sleek exteriors that blend into the rest of your room's style. If you're seeking a more subtle appearance, then an integrated or built-in refrigerator might be the perfect choice for your home. best fridge uk at Spencer's TV & Appliance is here to help you find the perfect integrated refrigerator for your kitchen renovation.
Integrated fridges are designed to fit flush with your cabinetry which makes them the ideal choice for those who want to create a unified kitchen design. They come with a door panel that matches your cabinetry so you can't tell where the refrigerator ends and the cabinets begin. These are also great for kitchens with smaller spaces and living spaces that are open because they can help make the space more organized and make it appear more organized.
The most common style of integrated refrigerator is a bottom-freezer refrigerator. This model lets you store larger items such as fish, meat and vegetables without sacrificing storage space. It also comes with a middle bonus drawer which can be used to store wine storage or for storing an charcuterie platter before guests come over for a visit. The drawer comes with an independent temperature control so that you can set it to the perfect serving temperature.
Another type of integrated refrigerator is the French-door model. This type of fridge has a sleek stainless finish that is a perfect match to the cabinets in the kitchen. It's a great option for modern homes and features a door with no handles that gives it a luxurious look. It's also easy to customize your refrigerator by choosing different colors and finishes.
Storage
Integrated refrigerators are integrated into the existing cabinetry or refrigerator housings in your kitchen. This gives them a seamless appearance without any protrusions. These types of refrigerators are popular among homeowners who are looking to create a modern elegant look in their kitchens. They conceal the appliance from view. They are also quieter and more efficient than freestanding models.
You can pick from a variety of storage options, including 50:50 models which offer a similar fridge and freezer 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 that have more space in the fridge and a smaller freezer.
Many Integrated fridges come with an extra drawer that can be used to store fish and meat at 0degC to ensure the preservation of food and extend its shelf life. Fruit and vegetable drawers can also be controlled by humidity, making sure that your food remains fresh and healthy.
Some models come with a "frozen compartment' that helps protect food from freezing and frost. This kind of appliance is ideal for those who love baking and freezing, or cooking from scratch and want to make sure that your homemade creations will keep as long as possible.
Another handy feature is the option to add a separate 'freezer drawer to store large bowls, platters 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 refrigerators, integrated fridges can't be relocated easily when you are renovating your home or move. This is because they're built into kitchen cabinets and are designed to appear seamless and blend with the interior decor of your home.
This kind of fridge is usually utilized in kitchens with a stylised design or homes that require a high-end, modern aesthetic. The fridge is hidden behind doors for cabinets that are typically made of wood or polished stainless steel to give it an elegant appearance that blends in with the surrounding decor. Smart home apps can be used to connect your fridge and other appliances to communicate and respond to commands and eventually become part of a bigger home control system.
Despite their attractive appearance, integrated refrigerators have some disadvantages. They are, for one, likely to be more expensive than freestanding fridges. This disparity has little to be attributed to mechanical systems or better performance. It's due to the fact that integrated refrigerators are targeted at an elite market that is willing to pay more for their elegant design and functionality.
Moreover, the installation of an integrated fridge is costly as it requires modifications to your kitchen. This involves cutting or removing any fillers that are in the way and putting an additional bridging cabinet above the fridge to accommodate the door frame. In addition, integrated fridges are typically higher than freestanding ones, which could leave an unsightly gap at the top of your cabinetry. This could require you to build an over-the-counter cabinet to cover the gap and offer an attractive solution. This is not an issue if you're happy to keep your fridge as it is, but it is something to think about if you intend to alter your kitchen 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 in a small space and the fact that many homeowners will pay more for refrigerators with a classy design that is not in conflict with their kitchen style. Adding to this, they require more professional installation than other refrigerators that can add significant amounts to the final price.
As an added benefit integrated fridge freezers offer an increase in energy efficiency. Because the exterior of these models are hidden they are well-insulated to keep cold air from getting inside, which results in fewer temperature fluctuations as well as lower energy usage. Additionally, since doors are inset, they do not protrude from the cabinetry. This can give an illusion of spaciousness and openness within.
The freezer section on an integrated fridge will be smaller than the one that is found on standalone models. However, it still provides ample space for storing fresh food and frozen goods. In addition, many integrated refrigerator models have 50:50 splits which permit equal refrigeration space and freezer space.
The advantages of having an integrated refrigerator are immense. They have a seamless appearance that blends in with custom cabinetry to create a more cohesive layout. They offer superior flexibility and storage space, and can be outfitted with a range of features to enhance functionality. This is why it's not surprising that they have become a popular choice for luxury appliances buyers today. It is important to consider the pros and cons of each before making a choice.