Choosing an Integrated Fridge For Your Kitchen Remodel
A built-in refrigerator is flush with your counters and cabinets, blending seamlessly into the design of your kitchen. They also allow for more flexibility in customization with panel-ready options as well as integrated handles.
These features are the reason why a lot of homeowners opt for an integrated fridge over freestanding ones. This style of fridge can have a few drawbacks.
Size
Integrated fridge freezers sit completely flush with the kitchen's cabinetry giving a sleek appearance that looks like an extension of the cabinets themselves. They are great for kitchens that have a modern or country cottage style. However, there are a few things to think about before you make the plunge to buy an integrated refrigerator.
One of the most important aspects to take into consideration is the size. Integrated refrigerators are available in different widths to accommodate various kitchen sizes. They're also typically taller than freestanding fridges which allows you to store more food items in them without the necessity of a second
Fridge Zanussi.
The depth is an additional factor to take into consideration. While integrated refrigerators are deeper than
under counter fridge silver-depth fridges, freestanding refrigerators are generally counter-depth. The range of storage options is limited since they cannot be fitted into all kitchen cabinets.
Last but not least, you must take into consideration the design of the door. Integrated refrigerators are available with either a hinge fixed or a sliding model. It is important to know this as it affects the way the refrigerator's doors open and close. You'll have to decide if you want to divide the freezer and fridge parts 50:50 or 60/40.
Aesthetics
There are many styles of kitchen refrigerators that are on the market today. Certain refrigerators feature a distinctive color or design, whereas others feature a sleek design that blends into the decor. If you want a more discrete style or a built in fridge could be a good fit for your home. Our team at Spencer's TV & Appliance is here to help you find the ideal integrated refrigerator for your kitchen remodel.
Integrated refrigerators are designed to fit in flush with your cabinets making them a great option for those who want to create a seamless kitchen design. They come with a door that matches your cabinetry, which means you won't be able to know where the refrigerator's finish and the cabinets begin. These are also great for kitchens with smaller spaces and living spaces that are open because they can help reduce clutter and make it appear more organized.
The most popular type of integrated fridge is a bottom-freezer refrigerator. This model allows for larger items like fish, meat, and vegetables to be kept without sacrificing storage space. It also comes with a middle bonus drawer that can be used for wine storage or to store an charcuterie platter before guests visit. The drawer is equipped with an independent temperature control so that you can set it to the ideal serving temperature.
Another style of integrated refrigerator is the French-door model. This type of refrigerator has an elegant stainless steel look that can be matched to your kitchen cabinets. It's a great choice for modern homes. It comes with a handleless door that gives it a luxurious look. It's also simple to personalize your refrigerator by choosing different colors and finishes.
Storage
Integrated refrigerators are incorporated into the cabinetry or refrigerator
fridge Zanussi housings in your kitchen. This gives it a seamless appearance without any protrusions. These kinds of refrigerators are the most popular choice for homeowners looking to achieve a modern or high-end kitchen design that conceals the appliance from the view. They also provide the quietest, most efficient way of cooling your food than freestanding refrigerators.
You can pick from a wide variety of storage options such as 50:50 models that offer a similar fridge and freezer space, allowing you to store everything from fresh produce and leftovers to frozen meats and ice cream. You can also choose 60/40 splits or 70/30 models that have more fridge space as well as a smaller freezer.
Many integrated fridges have a special drawer for storing fish and meat at 0degC to enhance its preservation and extend its shelf lifespan. There are also a variety of vegetable and fruit drawers that can be controlled by humidity to help fresh food to stay fresh and healthy.
Certain models also come with an enclosed freezer compartment which protects food from frost and ice crystals. This kind of appliance will be perfect for those who enjoy baking, freezing, or cooking from scratch.
A separate freezer drawer can be set up to accommodate large platters, dishes and containers for takeaway food. This will help keep fresh food safe from freezing burn and decrease the requirement for regular defrosting, keeping your fridge and freezer in top shape.
Flexibility
Contrary to freestanding fridges and
fridge Zanussi freestanding units integrated refrigerators aren't easily moved when you remodel your kitchen or move. This is because they are fitted into the kitchen cabinetry and are designed to look seamless and blend with the rest of your home's decor.
This type of fridge is usually used in stylised kitchens or homes which require a premium contemporary design. The fridge is hidden behind doors for cabinets constructed from wood or polished steel to blend with the decor. Smart home apps can be used to connect your refrigerator and other appliances so that they can communicate, respond to commands, and become part of a larger home control system.
Despite their aesthetic appeal, integrated refrigerators have some disadvantages. 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 the elegant design.
Installation of an integrated refrigerator can be expensive due to the need for modifications to your kitchen. This means cutting out or removing any fillers in the way and installing an additional bridging cabinet above the fridge to accommodate its door frame. Integrated fridges tend to be taller than freestanding ones and can leave an opening at the top. This may require you to add an over-the-counter cabinet to cover the gap and offer an attractive solution. If you're happy with the layout of your kitchen then this shouldn't be an issue. However, if you'd like to alter it in the near future you might need to install the cross-over cabinet to cover the gap.
Cost
The fridge freezers that are integrated cost more than freestanding models because of their sleek design and permanent installation. This is due to the use of cooling technology that allows them to fit in a small space and the fact that many homeowners will spend more money for refrigerators with a classy appearance that doesn't clash with their kitchen style. Adding to this they require more expert installation than other fridges, which can also add significant amounts to the final cost.
Integrated fridge freezers also provide greater energy efficiency. These models are well insulated which allows cold air to be confined inside. This leads to less fluctuations in temperature and lower energy consumption. In addition, since the doors are inset, they do not protrude from the cabinetry. This creates an illusion of spaciousness and openness within.
The freezer area of an integrated refrigerator is usually smaller than those is found on standalone models but it still provides plenty of storage space to store fresh food items as well as frozen items.
