Choosing an Integrated Fridge For Your Kitchen Remodel
A fridge that is integrated sits close to your counter and cabinetry and blends seamlessly into the design of your kitchen. They also offer greater customization flexibility by incorporating panel-ready options and handles.
These are the reasons why many homeowners opt for an integrated fridge instead of freestanding models. 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, providing a sleek finish that resembles an extension of the cabinets themselves. They are perfect for kitchens with a modern or country cottage style. However there are some points to be considered before you make the plunge to purchase an integrated refrigerator.
One of the most important aspects to consider is the size. Refrigerators with integrated features are available in various widths to fit various kitchen sizes. They are also generally taller than freestanding fridges, allowing you to store more food in them without the necessity of another fridge.
The depth is another factor to take into consideration. While integrated refrigerators are more than counter-depth, freestanding refrigerators are generally counter-depth. This can limit the number of storage options available, since they aren't able to fit into all kitchen cabinets currently in use.
Finally, you must take into account the door's style. Refrigerators that are integrated come with either a fixed hinge or sliding model. This is important as it will affect the way that doors of the refrigerator open and close. You'll also have to decide if you'd like a 50:50 split or a 60/40 split, since this will affect the amount of space that is allotted to the freezer and fridge sections.
Aesthetics
There are many styles of kitchen refrigerators that are on the market in the present. fridge sale feature a distinctive color or design that makes them look unique while others have sleek exteriors that blend with the rest of your room's style. If you're looking for an elegant style, an integrated or built in fridge could be a good fit for your home. Spencer's TV & Appliance can help you select the ideal integrated refrigerator for your kitchen renovation.
Integrated refrigerators are designed to be in a flush position with your cabinets which makes them the ideal option for those looking to create a seamless kitchen style. They come with a door that matches your cabinetry, so it's difficult to know where the refrigerator's finish and the cabinets begin. They're also a great choice for those with smaller kitchens or living spaces that are open as they can help to reduce clutter and keep it feeling streamlined.
The most commonly used type of integrated refrigerator is the bottom freezer. This type of refrigerator allows larger items like meat, fish, and vegetables to be kept without having to sacrifice storage space. It comes with a bonus middle drawer which you can use to store wine or charcuterie prior to guests arriving. The drawer has an independent temperature control so that you can set it to the perfect serving temperature.
The French-door style is another popular integrated refrigerator. This type of refrigerator has an elegant stainless steel look that can be matched to your kitchen cabinets. It's a great option for modern homes. It features a door with no handles that gives it a luxurious feel. You can also personalize your refrigerator by choosing various colors and finishes.
Storage
Integrated refrigerators are integrated into the fridge housing or existing cabinets in your kitchen and give it an uncluttered look without forward protrusions. These kinds of refrigerators are sought-after by homeowners who want to create a modern elegant look in their kitchens. They hide the appliance from view. They are also more quiet and more efficient than freestanding models.
You can choose between various storage options. For example you can choose 50:50 models that offer equally space in the fridge and freezer. This allows you to store anything from leftovers to fresh produce to frozen meats, ice cream and even leftovers. You can also pick 60/40 splits, or 70/30 models, which come with a larger fridge space and smaller freezer.
Many Integrated fridges come with an additional drawer to store meat and fish at 0degC to ensure the preservation of food and extend its shelf time. There are also a range of vegetable and fruit drawers which can be controlled by humidity to help fresh food to stay fresh and healthy.
Some models have a 'frozen compartment' that helps protect food from frost and ice. This type of appliance will be ideal for those who enjoy baking, freezing, and cooking from scratch.
A separate freezer drawer can be installed for large platters, dishes, and containers for takeaway food. This will help keep fresh food safe from freezer burn and reduce the requirement for regular defrosting, keeping your freezer and fridge in top condition.
Flexibility
Contrary to freestanding fridges and freestanding units that are freestanding, integrated refrigerators cannot be easily moved during renovations to your kitchen or move. This is because they are integrated into kitchen cabinets and are designed to look seamless and blend with the interior of your home.
This type of refrigerator is used in kitchens or homes with a contemporary, high-end aesthetic. The fridge is concealed behind doors to cabinets that are typically made of a wood or stainless steel that has been brushed to give it an elegant appearance that blends in with the surrounding decor. Smart home apps can be used to connect your fridge and other appliances to communicate and respond to commands and eventually become part of a larger home control system.
Despite their aesthetic appeal integrated refrigerators come with a few disadvantages. For one, they tend to be more expensive than freestanding refrigerators. This disparity has little to do with mechanical systems or better performance. It's because integrated refrigerators are designed for an elite market who are willing to pay more for the high-end design and performance.
Furthermore, the installation of an integrated fridge could be expensive, since it requires changes to your kitchen. This could include cutting out or removing any fillers that might be blocking the fridge's entrance and putting a bridging cabinet above the fridge to allow for the door frame. Integrated fridges tend to be larger than freestanding fridges and can leave an opening at the top. This could require you to install a cross-over cabinet to hide the gap and offer a more aesthetically pleasing solution. If you're happy with the design of your kitchen as it is it isn't an issue. However, if you'd like to modify it in the near future, you may need to install a cross-over cabinet to hide the gap.
Cost
Integrated fridge freezers are more expensive than freestanding models due to their sleek aesthetic and permanent installation. This is due to the design of cooling technology that can fit into a small space and also the fact that a lot of homeowners are willing to pay more for a fridge with a high-end design that isn't in conflict with the style of their kitchen. They also require more professional installation compared to other refrigerators. This can add a significant amount to the final cost.
As an added benefit integrated fridge freezers offer an increase in energy efficiency. These models are well insulated which allows cold air to stay inside. This leads to less fluctuations in temperature and lower energy consumption. In addition, since doors are inset and not protruding out of the cabinetry. This can create an impression of space and a feeling of openness inside.
The freezer section of an integrated refrigerator is usually smaller than that is found on standalone models however, it still offers plenty of s
