Choosing an Integrated Fridge For Your Kitchen Remodel
A built-in fridge is in a flush with counters and cabinets, blending seamlessly into the design of your kitchen. They also allow for more customization options by incorporating panel-ready options and handles.
Many homeowners opt for an integrated refrigerator over a standalone one because of these features. However, this kind of refrigerator can also come with some drawbacks.
Size
Integrated fridge freezers sit completely in line with the cabinetry of the kitchen giving a sleek appearance that looks like an extension of the cabinets. This makes them ideal for modern and country cottage kitchens. There are several factors to take into consideration before buying an integrated refrigerator.
One of the most important aspects to take into consideration is the size. Refrigerators with integrated features come in various sizes, which can be adapted to various sizes of kitchens. fridges for sale are also generally larger than freestanding fridges, allowing you to store more food items in them without the need for an additional fridge.
Another thing to take into consideration is the depth. While freestanding refrigerators are usually counter-depth, integrated fridges are higher than this. The number of storage options is limited since they cannot be fitted in all kitchen cabinets.
Lastly, you should be aware of the door's design. Refrigerators that are integrated can be equipped 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. You'll have to decide if you want to split the fridge and freezer sections 50:50 or 60/40.
Aesthetics
There are many styles to choose from for kitchen refrigerators today. Some refrigerators feature a distinctive color or design that makes them look unique, and some have sleek exteriors that blend into the interior design. If you're seeking a more subtle appearance and style, then an integrated or built-in refrigerator may be the right option for your home. Spencer's TV & Appliance can help you select the right integrated refrigerator for your kitchen remodeling.
Integrated refrigerators are designed to fit perfectly with your cabinets, making them an ideal choice for those looking to create a seamless kitchen design. The door panels match the cabinetry, so you can't discern a distinction between the refrigerator and the cabinets. They're also an excellent choice for those with small kitchens or living spaces that are open, as they can help to reduce clutter and make it appear more organized.
The most popular type of integrated fridge is a bottom-freezer refrigerator. This type of refrigerator allows larger items such as fish, meat and even vegetables to be stored without sacrificing storage space. It also comes with a middle drawer that can be used for wine storage or to store a charcuterie board before friends visit. The drawer comes with a separate temperature control which allows you to set the temperature to your liking.
Another type of integrated refrigerator is the French-door model. This kind of refrigerator comes with an elegant stainless steel look that can be matched to the kitchen cabinets. It's a great option for modern homes and features a door with no handles which gives it a classy look. It's also simple to personalize your refrigerator with a variety of colors and finishes.
Storage
Integrated refrigerators are incorporated into the existing cabinetry or the fridge housing in your kitchen. This gives it an elegant appearance with no protrusions. These kinds of refrigerators are a popular choice for homeowners looking to achieve a modern or contemporary kitchen style that hides the appliance from the view of. They are also quieter and more efficient than freestanding models.
You can choose between various storage options. For instance you can choose 50:50 models that provide equally space in the fridge and freezer. This allows you to store anything from leftovers and fresh produce to frozen meats, ice cream, and even leftovers. You can also pick 60/40 splits or 70/30 models with a larger freezer and smaller fridge.
Many integrated fridges have a special drawer for storing fish and meat at 0degC to enhance its preservation and extend its shelf life. There is also a variety of fruit and vegetable drawers which can be controlled by humidity to ensure that fresh food items stay fresh and healthy.
Certain models also come with a dedicated 'frozen' compartment that helps protect food from frost and ice crystals. This type of appliance will be ideal for those who love baking, freezing, or cooking from scratch.
A separate 'freezer drawer' can be installed for large platters, dishes, and containers for takeaway food items. This will help keep fresh food safe from freezer burn and also reduce the need for frequent defrosting, which keeps your freezer and fridge in pristine condition.
Flexibility
In contrast to freestanding fridges integrated refrigerators aren't easily moved when you renovate your kitchen or move. They are integrated into the kitchen cabinets and are designed to blend with the rest of the decor in your home.
This type of fridge is usually utilized in kitchens with a stylised design or homes which require a premium contemporary design. The fridge is concealed behind cabinet doors constructed of wood or brushed steel to blend in with the decor. The integrated fridge can also be connected to smart home applications that connect your fridge and other appliances to communicate with each other, respond to commands and form part of a larger home control system.
While integrated refrigerators may be amazing in terms of aesthetics, they do have some disadvantages. They are more expensive than freestanding refrigerators. This isn't due to superior mechanical systems or performance. It is because integrated refrigerators are targeted towards a premium market, which is willing to pay more for elegant design.
Moreover the installation of an integrated refrigerator can be costly, as it requires changes to your kitchen. This could include cutting out or the fillers that may be blocking the way, and installing an additional bridging cabinet above the fridge to accommodate the door frame. Integrated fridges tend to be higher than freestanding ones and can leave a gap at the top. This may require you to add a cross-over cabinet to hide the gap and provide an aesthetic solution. This is not an issue If you're content to keep your fridge in the same place it is, but it's something to consider if you plan on changing your kitchen layout in the near future.
Cost
Integrated fridge freezers cost more than freestanding models due to their sleek design and permanent installation. This is due to the layout of cooling technology that allows them to fit in a small space, as well as to the fact that a lot of homeowners will pay more for an appliance with a high-end design that is not in conflict with their kitchen design. They also require more skilled installation compared to other refrigerators. This can add significant cost to the total cost.
In addition, integrated fridge freezers provide enhanced energy efficiency. Because the exterior of these models is concealed, they are well-insulated to keep cold air inside, resulting in less temperature fluctuations and lower energy usage. Additionally, since the doors are inset, they do not protrude from the cabinetry. This creates a feeling of spaciousness and openness inside.
The freezer section of an integrated refrigerator is usually smaller than those available on standalone models, but it still provides plenty of storage space to store fresh food items and frozen items. Many integrated fridge models have 50:50 splits, which provide equal storage space for refrigeration and freezing.
The advantages of having an integrated refrigerator are immense. They feature a seamless design which blends seamlessly with custom cabinetry to create a more unified layout. They also have the highest capacity for storage and flexibility, and can be fitted with a range of features that enhance the functionality. It's no surprise that they are the most sought-after option among people who are looking for a luxury appliance. But, it's important to think about all the advantages and disadvantages before making a decision on one for your home.