A built-in fridge is in a flush with counters and cabinets, blending seamlessly into the design of your kitchen. They also provide greater customization flexibility by incorporating panel-ready options and handles.
These features are the reason why a lot of homeowners opt for an integrated refrigerator over a freestanding one. However, this style of refrigerator comes with some disadvantages.
Size
Integrated fridge freezers sit completely in line with the cabinetry of the kitchen giving a sleek appearance that resembles an extension of the cabinets. They are great for kitchens with a modern or country cottage style. There are a few things to consider before purchasing an integrated refrigerator.
The size is a key factor to consider. Refrigerators with integrated features come in various widths, to fit into different kitchen sizes. They're also typically larger than freestanding fridges, allowing you to store more food in them without the need for a second fridge.
The depth is an additional factor to take into consideration. While integrated fridges are deeper than counter-depth, freestanding refrigerators are typically counter-depth. The range of storage options is limited, as they will not fit in all kitchen cabinets.
Finally, you must be aware of the door's design. Integrated refrigerators can be fitted with either a 'fixed' hinge or a sliding hinge. It's important to be aware of this as it affects 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, as this will determine how much space is allotted to the freezer and fridge sections.
Aesthetics
There are many different styles of kitchen refrigerators that are on the market today. Some refrigerators feature a distinctive color or panel that makes them look unique while others have sleek exteriors that blend into the your room's style. If you're looking for an unobtrusive look and style, a built-in or integrated in fridge may be right for your home. Spencer's TV Appliance can help you select the ideal integrated refrigerator for your kitchen remodeling.
Integrated refrigerators are designed to be flush with your cabinetry and are the ideal option for those looking to create a seamless kitchen design. They come with a door that matches your cabinetry so you can't know where the refrigerator's finish and the cabinets begin. They're also a great choice for those with small kitchens or living spaces that are open, as they can help clear the space and keep it feeling streamlined.
The most well-known type of integrated refrigerator is a bottom freezer refrigerator. This model permits larger items like meat, fish and even vegetables to be stored without having to sacrifice storage space. It comes with a bonus middle drawer that you can use to store wine or charcuterie prior to guests arriving. The drawer is equipped with a separate temperature controller that allows you to adjust the temperature to your preferences.
The French-door model is another popular integrated fridge. This kind of refrigerator comes with a sleek stainless steel finish that will match the kitchen cabinets. This is an excellent option for modern homes. It features a no-handle front door that gives it a sense of luxury. It's also easy to customize your refrigerator with a variety of colors and finishes.
Storage
Integrated refrigerators are integrated into the fridge's housing or cabinetry of your kitchen and give it an elegant look with no forward protrusions. These types of fridges are the most popular choice for homeowners looking to achieve a modern or high-end kitchen design that conceals the appliance from view. They are also more quiet and more efficient than freestanding models.
You can pick from various storage options. For example you can select 50:50 models, which offer the same amount of space in the freezer and fridge. This allows you to store anything from leftovers and fresh produce to frozen meats, ice cream and even leftovers. You can also choose 60/40 splits, or 70/30 models, which have more space for freezers and a smaller fridge.
A lot of integrated fridges have an additional drawer to store meat and fish at 0degC to enhance the preservation of food and extend its shelf lifespan. The drawers for vegetables and fruits can also be controlled by humidity, which will ensure that your food is fresh and healthy.
Some models also have an enclosed freezer compartment which protects food from ice crystals and frost. This type of appliance is ideal when you love baking and freezing, or cooking from scratch and want to ensure that your creations made from scratch last as long as is possible.
A separate 'freezer drawer' can be installed for large platters, dishes and containers of takeaway foods. This will help protect fresh food from freezing burn and decrease the requirement for regular defrosting, which keeps your fridge and freezer in top condition.
Flexibility
In contrast to freestanding fridges, integrated refrigerators can't be easily moved when you renovate your kitchen or move. They are integrated into the kitchen cabinets and are designed to complement the rest of the decor in your home.
This kind of fridge is often found in stylish kitchens or in homes that require a high-end contemporary design. The fridge is hidden behind cabinet doors that are usually made of a wood or brushed stainless steel material to give it a seamless appearance that blends into the decor. Refrigerators with integrated systems can be paired with smart home applications that connect your fridge and other appliances to communicate with one with each other, respond to commands and become part of a larger home control system.
Despite their aesthetic appeal integrated refrigerators come with a few disadvantages. They're more expensive than freestanding refrigerators. This disparity is not due to better mechanical systems or performance. It's because integrated fridges are targeted towards a premium market that is willing to pay more for upscale design.
Installing an integrated refrigerator can be expensive due to the need for modifications in your kitchen. This could include cutting out or the fillers that may be blocking the fridge's entrance and installing an bridging cabinet over the fridge to accommodate the door frame. Integrated fridges are usually higher than freestanding ones which means they can leave an opening at the top. This may mean you need to install a cross-over cabinet to hide the gap and provide a more aesthetically pleasing solution. This isn't a problem if you're happy to keep your fridge as it is, but it is something to think about if you plan on changing your kitchen's layout in the future.
Cost
Integrated fridge freezers are more expensive than freestanding models due to their sleek design and their permanent installation. This is due to the layout of cooling technology to fit into a smaller space and also due to the fact that a lot of homeowners will spend more money for refrigerators with a classy look that does not clash with their kitchen style. They also require more skilled installation compared to other fridges. This can add a significant amount to the final cost.
The integrated fridge freezers also offer greater energy efficiency. Since the exterior of these models are hidden they are well-insulated to keep cold air inside, which results in less temperature fluctuations and less energy consumption. In addition, because doors are inset and not protruding out of the cabinetry. This creates a feeling of spaciousness and openness inside.
The freezer area on an integrated fridge will be smaller than those that is found on standalone models. However, it still offers plenty of space for storage of fresh food and frozen goods. Moreover, cheap fridge for sale integrated fridge models come with 50:50 splits that allow for equally sized refrigeration and freezing space.
The advantages of having an integrated refrigerator are immense. They have a seamless appearance that blends in with custom cabinetry to create a more unified layout. They also offer the highest capacity for storage and flexibility, and can be fitted with a range of features to enhance functionality. As a result, it's not a surprise that they've been a top option for buyers of luxury appliances today. It is crucial to consider the advantages and disadvantages of each before making a choice.
