Choosing an Integrated Fridge For Your Kitchen Remodel
A fridge that is integrated sits in a flush position with your counter and cabinetry to seamlessly blend into your kitchen design. They also offer more customization options by incorporating panel-ready options and handles.
Many homeowners choose an integrated refrigerator over a standalone one due to these advantages. However, this kind of refrigerator can also come with some drawbacks.
Size
Integrated fridge-freezers sit in line with the kitchen cabinets and give a sleek appearance that resembles an extension of the cabinets. They are great for kitchens with a contemporary or country cottage style. However, there are a few things to think about before you make the plunge to buy a refrigerator with integrated features.
The size is a major aspect to take into consideration. Refrigerators with integrated features are available in different widths to accommodate various kitchen sizes. They also stand taller than freestanding refrigerators, which means you can store more food items without having to buy a second.
The depth is another factor to consider. While integrated refrigerators are deeper than counter-depth refrigerators, freestanding refrigerators are generally counter-depth. This can limit the number of storage options available, since they won't fit in all kitchen cabinets currently in use.
Not least, you need to think about the design of the door. Refrigerators with integrated doors can be fitted with either a fixed hinge or a sliding hinge. This is important because it will affect the way that fridge doors open and shut. You'll also have to decide if you want a 50:50 or 60/40 split, since this will impact how much space is allotted to freezer and fridge sections.
Aesthetics
There are many styles to choose from for kitchen refrigerators today. Certain refrigerators feature a distinctive color or panel, while others have a sleek style that blends in with the rest of the decor. If you prefer an elegant look, an integrated or built in fridge could be a good fit for your home. Spencer's TV & Appliance can help you choose the perfect integrated refrigerator for your kitchen remodel.
Integrated refrigerators are designed to fit flush with your cabinetry, making them the perfect option for those looking to create a unified kitchen aesthetic. They have a door panel that matches your cabinetry, which means you won't be able to tell where the refrigerator ends and the cabinets begin. They are also ideal for kitchens with smaller spaces as well as open-plan living spaces as they help to reduce clutter and make it appear more organized.
The most popular type of integrated refrigerator is a bottom freezer refrigerator. This model lets you store larger items such as meat, fish and vegetables without sacrificing valuable storage space. It also has an extra middle drawer which can be used to store wine or storing an charcuterie platter before guests visit. The drawer is equipped with a separate temperature controller that allows you to adjust the temperature according to your preference.
Another type of integrated fridge is the French-door model. This kind of fridge features an elegant stainless finish that matches the cabinets in your kitchen. It's a great option for modern homes. It comes with a handleless door which gives it a classy look. You can also personalize your refrigerator by choosing different finishes and colors.
Storage
Integrated fridges integrate into the fridge housing or existing cabinets in your kitchen and give it an uncluttered look without forward protrusions. These kinds of refrigerators are popular with homeowners who are looking to create a contemporary and luxurious look for their kitchens. They conceal the appliance from view. They also offer a quieter, more efficient way to cool your food than freestanding refrigerators.
You can pick from a variety of storage options like 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, which come with more space in the fridge and a smaller freezer.
Many Integrated fridges come with an additional drawer to store meat and fish at 0°C to ensure the preservation of food and extend its shelf lifespan. There are also a range of vegetable and fruit drawers that can be controlled by humidity to ensure that fresh food items stay fresh and healthy.
Some models also have an enclosed freezer compartment that helps protect food from frost and ice crystals. This kind of appliance will be ideal for people who enjoy baking, freezing, or cooking from scratch.
A separate 'freezer drawer' can be set up to accommodate large platters, dishes, and containers of takeaway foods. This will help protect fresh food from freezer burn and also reduce the need for regular defrosting, which keeps your fridge and freezer in pristine condition.
Flexibility
In contrast to freestanding fridges integrated refrigerators aren't easily moved when you renovate your kitchen or move house. They are incorporated into kitchen cabinets and are designed to complement the the decor in your home.
This type of fridge is often used in stylised kitchens or homes which require a premium, modern aesthetic. The fridge is hidden behind cabinet doors that are usually made of wood or stainless steel that has been brushed to create an uncluttered appearance that is a perfect match with the surrounding decor. Smart home apps can be used to connect your refrigerator and other appliances to communicate and respond to commands and become part of a larger home control system.
Despite their appealing appearance integrated refrigerators come with a few disadvantages. They're 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, who are willing to pay more for upscale design.
Installing an integrated refrigerator can be costly because it requires changes to your kitchen. This means removing or cutting any fillers that are in the way, and adding a bridging cupboard above the fridge to accommodate the door frame. Integrated fridges are usually higher than freestanding ones which means they can leave gaps at the top. You may need to add an overhang to cover the gap. This will make it more visually pleasing. If you're happy with the design of your kitchen then this shouldn't be an issue. However, if you'd like to alter it in the future it may be necessary to add a cross-over cabinet to hide the gap.
Cost
Refrigerators with integrated freezers are more expensive than freestanding models because of their sleek appearance 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 a lot of homeowners will spend more on a fridge with a premium look that does not clash with their kitchen design. Additionally, fridges for sale uk require more professional installation than other refrigerators that can increase the final cost.
As an added benefit, integrated fridge freezers provide an increase in energy efficiency. They are well-insulated, allowing cold air to be confined within the. This results in lower temperature fluctuations and less energy consumption. Additionally, because the doors are inset they don't protrude from the cabinetry, which can give a more spacious and open feel inside.
The freezer area of an integrated fridge is usually smaller than those found on standalone models, but it can still offer plenty of storage space to store fresh food items and frozen items. Many integrated fridge models come with 50:50 splits that allow equal storage for both freezing and refrigeration.
The benefits of integrated refrigerators are huge. They offer a seamless look that blends seamlessly with custom cabinetry, which helps to create a more harmonious kitchen layout. They offer superior flexibility as well as storage, and can also be fitted with a variety of features that enhance functionality. It's not a surprise that they're the most sought-after option among consumers of luxury appliances today. However, it's crucial to consider all the pros and cons before deciding to purchase one for your home.