Choosing an Integrated Fridge For Your Kitchen Remodel
A built-in fridge is integrated into your cabinets and counters and blends seamlessly into the design of your kitchen. With panel-ready options and inset handles, they can also provide enhanced customization flexibility.
These are the reasons why many homeowners opt for an integrated fridge over freestanding ones. However, this type of refrigerator comes with some drawbacks.
Size
The fridge freezers integrated into the refrigerator are in line with the cabinetry of the kitchen giving a sleek appearance that looks like an extension of the cabinets themselves. They are ideal for kitchens with a modern or country cottage style. There are a few factors to consider before purchasing an integrated refrigerator.
The size is an important aspect to consider. Integrated refrigerators come in different widths, to fit into various kitchen sizes. They also stand taller than freestanding refrigerators, which means you can store more food items without needing a second one.
The depth is a different aspect to consider. While integrated fridges are deeper than counter-depth fridges, freestanding refrigerators are typically counter-depth. This can limit the number of storage options, since they aren't able to fit into all kitchen cabinets currently in use.
Lastly, you should take into account the door's design. Integrated refrigerators are available with either a hinge that is fixed or a sliding model. This is crucial because it will affect the way that fridge doors open and shut. You'll also need to decide if you'd like a 50:50 split or a 60/40 split, since this will determine how much space is allotted to freezer and fridge sections.
Aesthetics
There are a variety of styles available for kitchen refrigerators today. Certain refrigerators are distinguished by a color or design that makes them stand out while others have sleek exteriors that blend with the rest of interior design. If you want an elegant look, an integrated or built in fridge could be a good fit for your home. Our team at Spencer's TV & Appliance is here to help you locate the ideal integrated refrigerator for your kitchen remodeling.
Integrated fridges are designed to be flush with your cabinetry and are the ideal choice for those who want to create a unified kitchen style. They come with a door panel that matches your cabinetry, so it's difficult to discern where the refrigerator's end and the cabinets begin. These are also great for kitchens with smaller spaces and living spaces that are open as they help to make the space more organized 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 fish, meat and other vegetables to be stored without sacrificing storage space. It also features a middle drawer which can be used to store wine storage or for storing a charcuterie board before friends come over for a visit. The drawer is equipped with a separate temperature controller which allows you to set the temperature according to your preference.
The French-door model is another well-liked integrated refrigerator. This kind of refrigerator comes with a sleek stainless steel finish that is designed to match the kitchen cabinets. This is a great option for modern homes. It comes with a non-handle front door which gives it a touch of elegance. You can also customize your refrigerator by choosing various colors and finishes.
Storage
Integrated refrigerators are incorporated into the cabinetry or fridge housing of your kitchen. This gives them an uncluttered appearance with no protrusions. fridge uk of fridges are an ideal choice for those looking to achieve a modern or contemporary kitchen style that conceals the appliance from the view of. They also offer a quieter, more efficient way of cooling your food items than freestanding refrigerators.
You can choose from a variety of storage options like 50:50 models, which offer a similar fridge and freezer space which 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, which come with more fridge space as well as a smaller freezer.
Many integrated fridges have an extra drawer that can be used to store meat and fish at 0degC to ensure its preservation and increase its shelf life. The drawers for vegetables and fruits can also be controlled by humidity, which will ensure that your food remains fresh and healthy.
Certain models also come with a dedicated 'frozen' compartment which protects food from ice crystals and frost. This kind of appliance is ideal for those who love baking and freezing, or cooking from scratch and want to ensure that your home-cooked creations last as long as you can.
Another useful feature is the ability to add a separate 'freezer drawer that can be used for large platters, bowls and containers for takeaway food. This can help keep fresh food safe from freezer burn and also reduce the need for regular defrosting, which keeps your fridge and freezer in pristine condition.
Flexibility
Contrary to freestanding refrigerators fridges aren't able to be relocated easily when you are renovating your home or move. This is because they're 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 fridge is usually found in stylish kitchens or in homes that require a high-end contemporary design. The fridge is hidden behind doors for cabinets constructed of wood or polished steel to blend with the 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.
Although integrated refrigerators are amazing in terms of aesthetics, they do have some drawbacks. They're more expensive than freestanding refrigerators. This is not to do with mechanical systems or superior performance. It's due to the fact that integrated refrigerators are aimed at an elite market that is willing to pay a premium price for the upscale design and performance.
Moreover the installation of an integrated fridge can be costly, as it requires modifications to your kitchen. This could include cutting out or the fillers that may be in the way and adding an bridging cabinet over the fridge to accommodate the door frame. Integrated fridges tend to be larger than freestanding fridges, so they could leave a gap at the top. You may need to add an extra cross-over cabinet to fill in the gap. This will make it more visually pleasing. If you're happy with the layout of your kitchen as it is, this is not a problem. However, if you'd like to modify it in the near future, you may need to install an over-the-counter cabinet to conceal the gap.
Cost
Integrated fridge freezers are more expensive than freestanding models because of their sleek appearance and long-lasting installation. This is a result of designing cooling systems to fit into a small space and the fact that many homeowners are willing to pay more for a fridge with a stylish design that doesn't clash with the style of their kitchen. Additionally, they require more professional installation than other fridges that can add significant amounts to the final cost.
Additionally integrated fridge freezers offer an increase in energy efficiency. Since the exterior of these models are concealed they are well-insulated to keep cold air within, which results in fewer temperature fluctuations and less energy consumption. Additionally, since the doors are inset and not protruding from the cabinetry. This creates an impression of space and a feeling of openness inside.
The freezer section of a fridge integrated is typically smaller than the one is found on standalone models but it can still offer plenty of storage space to store fresh food items and frozen items. Additionally, many integrated fridge models come with 50:50 splits that allow for equal storage of refrigeration and freezing space.
In the end, the benefits of a fridge that is integrated are vast. They provide a seamless appearance that blends into custom cabinetry, which helps to create a cohesive kitchen layout. They offer superior flexibility and storage space, and are also able to be fitted with a variety of features that enhance functionality. It's not surprising that they've become a popular choice for buyers of luxury appliances in the present. But, it's important to weigh all the advantages and disadvantages before investing in one for your home.