Integrated fridges sit in a flush position with counters and cabinets via an inset door that blends with the aesthetic of your kitchen. They're camouflaged, so that even the compressor vents are hidden from view.
This makes them a preferred choice for those with contemporary-style kitchens. But do they really warrant the cost? Here's what you should know.
Seamless Design
One of the primary advantages of a fridge with an integrated design is that it blends into your kitchen cabinetry seamlessly. This allows you to create a chic look in your kitchen and accent your cabinets, which makes it ideal for modern kitchens. Many integrated refrigerators have handles that are inset and do not protrude. Some are panel-ready, which allow you to conceal the appliance behind cabinets. This makes it hard for guests to see the refrigerator even when it's closed, and provides your kitchen a seamless appearance.
If you want to integrate your refrigerator to your kitchen's design it is important to select a top-rated model. The best brands offer an extensive variety of styles and designs that are sure to complement your kitchen's style. They also offer a variety of sizes to ensure your refrigerator is a good fit for your kitchen.
For instance the Bosch Benchmark RS36A72J1N is a 36-inch French door refrigerator that comes with a sleek, modern design and has a panel-ready design to match your cabinetry. Its clever internal design makes the use of vertical space to ensure food is kept at the ideal temperature. It's also equipped with Wi-Fi Connect, so you can easily monitor the settings of the refrigerator right from your phone.
Integrated fridges for sale are also less expensive than freestanding models, making them a good option for those who are on a tight budget. It's important to think about the resale value of your home prior to purchasing an integrated refrigerator. This is because potential buyers might be swayed by the unique style of your kitchen, and may decide to redesign it to fit their tastes.
Find a professional designer kitchen to assist you in choosing the right model for your home if are considering an integrated refrigerator. They'll be able to recommend the most suitable models based on your requirements and budget. They'll also be able to guide you through the installation of your new fridge, and give you suggestions on how to make the most of it.
Permanently installed
The integrated fridge freezer is part of the cabinets in your kitchen and is placed in a flush position against the counters. It is not apposed into the space. They're popular for homeowners with modern or high-end kitchen design preference as they enhance the aesthetic of a modern space by concealing the fridge's components. The cabinetry for the refrigerator's housing can also act as an insulator against the hum of the compressor inside the fridge making it more quiet than freestanding fridges.
They are available in a variety of sizes and often have the option to split the door into a 50/50 refrigerator/freezer ratio or, alternatively, more fridge space than freezer. This is ideal if you want to shop for fresh produce and frozen foods.
In addition to their visually pleasing design, integrated fridge freezers also have many other advantages. They're more efficient than freestanding appliances and come with a range of additional features, including door sensors that can be connected to your smartphone to shut off the appliance if you're away from home. They are also more durable than freestanding refrigerators, since they're not exposed to the weather.
There are some disadvantages to owning a fridge integrated. They're typically more expensive than freestanding refrigerators. This is not to do with better mechanical systems or performance, but is due to a smaller number of consumers willing to pay more for a sleek design. Installation and customization services can be costly. These additional costs may be beyond the budget of some homeowners. The other downside is that they're permanent appliances in your kitchen and can't be removed as easily as a freestanding fridge freezer. If you decide to sell your home in the near future and you'd like to move your fridge with you, this can be an issue.
Customized Doors
Contrary to counter depth refrigerators that stick out past the cabinets, integrated refrigerators are completely concealed within your cabinetry. They have a body that is the same height as your cabinet doors, and they have door that is flush with their surroundings when closed. This gives a seamless appearance that is impossible to miss.
You can build a custom panel to your refrigerator or you can simply utilize a cabinet door to cover it. This is a task that requires planning and a lot of time to complete however, it will appear much more seamless than using an appliance handle or an additional handle for your refrigerator. This will also safeguard your refrigerator from scratches and dents.
You'll need the correct adhesive if you opt to install cabinets. Many home improvement stores carry adhesive strips that are made specifically for this type of installation. You'll need to evenly apply the strips, and then put the door or cabinet panel onto the refrigerator. Press down on the part of the cabinet door or panel that touches the refrigerator.
A fully integrated refrigerator is a great choice because you can modify it to fit your kitchen and your personal preferences. This type of refrigerator is more expensive than others and may have lower resales prices because buyers prefer to personalize it to their tastes.
The ZIC30GNNII from Liebherr is a refrigerator integrated 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. The interior is illuminated with LED lighting and features Cool Air Flow Technology that optimizes the cooling of food items. A middle bonus drawer can be used for storing wine, a cheeseboard, or other things you want to keep at a perfect temperature. This refrigerator also comes with a stainless steel wall, which prevents drips and ice from forming.
Longer Lifespan
Integrated fridges have more longevity than freestanding models since they are installed permanently. They are less susceptible to damage if temperatures suddenly change or if they are handled with care by pets and children. This is due to the fact that the refrigerator is concealed and not exposed to the elements as it is a freestanding unit.
The drawbacks of an integral fridge is that they are unable to be moved if you renovate or change your kitchen layout and their price is higher than that of freestanding refrigerators. This is due to their aesthetic value and the fact that they are a premium product. Their price tag reflects the fact that they cater to the market of people who are willing to pay more for a fridge that is both functional and beautiful.
Costly Installations and Customizations
Customizing and installing an integrated refrigerator can be costly. This is mainly because you must work with cabinet makers to create an overlay cabinet panel that will match the style of your kitchen. The cost could be thousands of dollars.
They also stand larger and when your cabinets are over them, you may need to add a bridging unit to make up the gap. If your existing freezer isn't the same size as the integrated fridge, you'll have to get it altered to ensure that the door shuts and opens properly.
Capacity
Depending on the model that you choose, your integrated fridge freezer may have a variety of features that aid in the preservation and prolonging the life of your food. For instance, they may have a separate compartment for meat that is kept at a lower temperature which helps to prevent it from becoming fatty and decaying. They can also use a drawer with a humidity control to store fruits that are susceptible to becoming soggy or rotten.
