Integrated refrigerators are set flush with cabinetry and counters via an inset door that is a part of the kitchen's aesthetic. The compressor vents too are concealed to blend in with the rest of the kitchen.
This makes them a very popular choice for those with contemporary-style kitchens. Are they worth the cost though? Here's what you should be aware of.
Seamless Design
Integral refrigerators are a fantastic option since they seamlessly blend into your cabinetry. This lets you create a luxurious look in your kitchen, and to add some style to your cabinets, making it perfect for modern kitchens. The doors on integrated refrigerators typically have inset handles that don't protrude and many are panel-ready to hide the appliance behind your cabinets. This makes it hard for guests to see the refrigerator even when it's closed, and provides your kitchen a more seamless appearance.
If you're looking to incorporate your fridge in your kitchen it is important to select the best model. The best brands offer a variety of designs and styles that are sure to match your kitchen design. In addition, they also have a wide range of size options to ensure that your refrigerator is the right one for your kitchen.
For example, the Bosch Benchmark RS36A72J1N is a 36-inch French door refrigerator that has a sleek, modern design and features a panel-ready design to complement your cabinetry. Its clever internal design takes advantage of vertical space and helps keep your food at the optimal temperature. It's also equipped with Wi-Fi Connect, so you can easily monitor the settings of the refrigerator using your smartphone.
Integrated refrigerators are also less expensive than freestanding ones, which makes them an excellent choice for those on a tight budget. However, it's important to consider the resale potential of your home before getting an integrated refrigerator. This is because buyers could be put off by the style of your kitchen, and then decide to make changes to fit their tastes.
If you're considering an integrated fridge, it's essential to consult an expert kitchen designer to help you choose the best model for your home. They'll be able to recommend the most suitable models for your home, based on your needs and budget. In addition, they'll be capable of guiding you through the installation process of your new refrigerator, and give you tips on how to get the most out of it.
Permanently Installed
An integrated fridge freezer is part of your kitchen's cabinetry and is placed right in the middle of your counters, so it isn't a distraction from the rest of the space. They are popular with homeowners who prefer a modern or high-end kitchen style because they conceal the refrigerator's mechanical parts. The cabinets that house the fridge serve as sound insulators, making the fridge quieter than a freestanding fridge.
They are available in a variety of sizes. They usually come with the option to split up the door into a 50/50 fridge/freezer, or alternatively, they have more space for fridges than the freezer. This is ideal for those who want to store both frozen and fresh food items.
Alongside the visually appealing design, integrated fridge freezers also come with a number of advantages. They are more energy-efficient than freestanding models, and they come with additional features, such as door sensors that you can connect to your smartphone to turn the appliance off while you're away. They're also more durable than refrigerators that are freestanding, because they're not subject to the elements.
There are some disadvantages to owning an integrated fridge. They're typically more expensive than freestanding fridges. This has little to have to do with mechanical systems or better performance, but is due to the fact that there's a much smaller customer base willing to pay the premium price for the seamless design. In addition installation and customization services can add up to a substantial bill. buy fridge uk might not be able afford these additional expenses. Another disadvantage is that these fridges are permanent fixtures that cannot be taken down as easily as a freestanding refrigerator freezer. If you decide to sell your house in the future, and you want to take your fridge with you, this could be an issue.
Customizable Doors
Contrary to counter depth refrigerators which extend beyond your cabinets, integrated fridges are fully hidden within your cabinetry. They have an exterior that is the same height as your cabinet doors, and they have doors that are in line with the surrounding when closed. This creates a seamless appearance that is impossible to miss.
You can make an individual panel to your integrated fridge or you can simply use a cabinet door and cover it. This project will require some planning and time, but the final product will be more seamless than purchasing a separate handle for your refrigerator, or using an appliance handle. This will safeguard your refrigerator from scratches and dents.
If you choose to install a cabinet door you'll need to use the proper adhesive. Many home improvement stores sell adhesive strips designed specifically for this kind of installation. You'll need to evenly apply the strips, and then carefully put the cabinet panel or door onto the refrigerator. Press down on the area of the panel or cabinet door that is touching the refrigerator.
The advantage of fully integrated refrigerators is that you can fully customize it to match your kitchen and preferences. This model of refrigerator is more expensive than other models, and may have less of a resale value because buyers prefer to personalize it to their tastes.
The ZIC30GNNII from Liebherr is an integrated refrigerator which comes with a freezer drawer as well as the door for the refrigerator. The model has a large interior with adjustable glass shelves and door bins that can be adjusted to accommodate different sizes of items. LED lighting illuminates the interior and it features Cool Air Flow technology that optimizes how food is chilled. The middle bonus drawer is perfect for storing cheeseboards, wine and other things you need to keep at an even temperature. This refrigerator has an exterior wall of stainless steel at the back, which prevents drips and ice from developing.
Longer Lifespan
Integrated fridges have more longevity than freestanding models since they are permanently installed. They are also less likely to be damaged by a sudden change in temperature or the harsh treatment of children and pets. This is due to the fact that the refrigerator is hidden and not exposed to the elements like it is in a freestanding unit.
The drawbacks of an integral fridge are that they can't be moved when you remodel or alter the layout of your kitchen and their cost is higher than that of freestanding refrigerators. This disparity is due to their aesthetic value and the fact that they are a premium product. Their price reflects that they cater to customers who are willing to pay more for an appliance that is functional as well as beautiful.
Costly Installations and Customizations
The major disadvantage of an integrated fridge is that it can be expensive to install and customise. This is mainly because you must work with cabinet makers to create an overlay cabinet panel that matches your kitchen's design. The cost for this could be thousands of dollars.
They are also larger and if your cabinets are above them, you might need to install a bridge unit to make up the gap. If your current freezer doesn't measure up to the size of the fridge that is integrated you'll need to have it modified to ensure that the door shuts and opens properly.
Capacity
Depending on the model that you choose, your integrated fridge freezer will have a range of features to aid in the preservation and prolonging the shelf-life of your food. They can, for example include a separate compartment for meat that's kept at a lower temperature to stop it from becoming fat or decaying. They can also make use of a drawer with a humidity control to store fruits that are susceptible to become soggy or decaying.
