Choosing an Integrated Fridge For Your Kitchen Remodel
An integrated fridge sits in a flush position with your counter and cabinetry, blending seamlessly into the design of your kitchen. With panel-ready options and inset handles, they also offer greater flexibility in customization.
Many homeowners prefer an integrated refrigerator over a separate one because of these features. This kind of fridge could have a few drawbacks.
Size
The fridge freezers integrated into the refrigerator are in line with the cabinetry of the kitchen and provide a sleek look that looks like an extension of the cabinets themselves. They are great for kitchens with a modern or country cottage style. There are several factors to take into consideration before buying an integrated refrigerator.
One of the biggest factors to take into consideration is the size. Integrated refrigerators are available in a variety of sizes, which can be adapted to various kitchen sizes. They are also taller than freestanding refrigerators, so you can store more food items without having to buy a second.
The depth is a different aspect to take into consideration. While freestanding refrigerators are usually counter-depth, integrated fridges sit higher than this. This can limit the number of storage options, as they aren't able to fit into all kitchen cabinets currently in use.
Not least, you need to consider the style of the door. Integrated refrigerators can be fitted with either a fixed hinge or a sliding hinge. It's important to be aware of this since it can affect how the fridge's doors open and close. You'll also have to decide if you'd like a 50:50 or 60/40 split. This will impact how much space is allotted to the freezer and fridge sections.
Aesthetics
There are a variety of styles of kitchen refrigerators on the market in the present. Some refrigerators are unique in color or design, whereas others feature a sleek design that blends in with the decor. If you're seeking a more subtle appearance and style, then an integrated or built-in fridge may be the right option for your home. Our team at Spencer's TV & Appliance is here to help you locate the ideal integrated refrigerator for your kitchen renovation.
Integrated refrigerators are designed to be flush with your cabinetry and are the ideal option for those looking to create a unified kitchen design. The door panels match the cabinetry, so it is difficult to discern the distinction between the fridge and the cabinets. They are also ideal for kitchens with small spaces and living spaces that are open as they help to reduce clutter and make it appear more organized.
The most popular type of integrated refrigerator is the bottom freezer. This model permits larger items such as fish, meat, and vegetables to be stored without losing storage space. It also comes with a middle drawer that can be used for wine or storing a charcuterie board before friends visit. The drawer has an additional temperature control, so you can set it to the ideal serving temperature.
Another popular style of integrated fridge is the French-door model. This kind of fridge features an elegant stainless finish that is a perfect match to the cabinets in your kitchen. It's a great choice for modern homes and has a handleless door that gives it a luxurious appearance. It's also simple to personalize your refrigerator with a variety of colors and finishes.
Stores
Integrated refrigerators are integrated into the existing cabinetry or the fridge housing in your kitchen. This gives them an uncluttered appearance with no protrusions. These types of fridges are an ideal choice for those seeking a contemporary or high-end kitchen design that conceals the appliance from view. They also provide an efficient, quieter way to cool your food items than freestanding refrigerators.
You can choose from a variety of storage options, including 50:50 models which provide equal freezer and fridge 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, which have a larger fridge space and smaller freezer.
A lot of integrated fridges have an extra drawer that can be used to store fish and meat at 0degC to improve the preservation of food and extend its shelf lifespan. Fruit and vegetable drawers can be controlled by humidity, making sure that your food stays fresh and healthy.
Certain models have a "frozen compartment' that protects food from freezing and frost. This kind of appliance will be ideal for those who love baking, freezing, or cooking from scratch.
Another useful feature is the possibility to add a separate 'freezer drawer that can be used for large bowls, platters and containers for takeaway food. This can help protect fresh food from freezer burn and also reduce the need for regular defrosting, which keeps your fridge and freezer in top shape.
Flexibility
In contrast to freestanding fridges, integrated refrigerators can't be easily moved during renovations to your kitchen or move house. best fridges uk are integrated into kitchen cabinets and are designed to complement the rest of the decor of your home.
This kind of refrigerator is used in kitchens and homes with a contemporary, stylish design. The fridge is hidden behind cabinet doors constructed of wood or brushed steel to blend in with the decor. Smart home apps can be used to connect your fridge and other appliances to communicate and respond to commands and be part of a bigger home control system.
Despite their attractive appearance integrated refrigerators do have some disadvantages. They are more expensive than freestanding refrigerators. This isn't due to superior mechanical systems or performance. It's because integrated fridges are targeted at a premium market, which is willing to pay more for the upscale design.
Installation of an integrated refrigerator can be expensive, as it requires modifications to your kitchen. This involves cutting out or removing any fillers in the way, and adding an additional bridging cabinet above the fridge to accommodate its door frame. Additionally, integrated refrigerators are generally higher than freestanding ones and can leave an unsightly gap at the top of your cabinetry. This could require you to install an additional cabinet that can cover the gap and offer a more aesthetically pleasing solution. If you're happy with the layout of your kitchen as it is then this shouldn't be a problem. If you'd like to modify it in the future, you may need to install a cross-over cabinet to hide the gap.
Cost
Refrigerators with integrated freezers are more expensive than freestanding models due to their sleek aesthetic and their permanent installation. This is due to the design of cooling technology that can be compact and the fact that many homeowners are willing to pay more for a refrigerator with a stylish design that isn't in conflict with the style of their kitchen. They also require more professional installation compared to other refrigerators. This could add a significant amount to the total cost.
Additionally, integrated fridge freezers provide enhanced energy efficiency. These models are well insulated which allows cold air to stay within the. This means less temperature fluctuations and reduced energy consumption. Additionally, because the doors are set, they do not protrude from the cabinetry, which could give a more spacious and open feel inside.
The freezer area of an integrated refrigerator is typically smaller than the one is found on standalone models however, it still offers plenty of storage space to store fresh food and frozen items. A majority of integrated fridge models feature 50:50 splits, which allow equal storage for both refrigeration and freezing.
The benefits of an integrated refrigerator are immense. They provide a seamless appearance that blends seamlessly with custom cabinetry, which helps to create a cohesive kitchen layout. They also have greater storage capacity and flexibility, and are equipped with a variety of features that enhance the functionality. It's no surprise that they're an increasingly sought-after choice for luxury appliance buyers today. It is essential to weigh the pros and cons of each prior to making a decision.