Choosing an Integrated Fridge For Your Kitchen Remodel
A fridge that is integrated sits flush with your counter and cabinetry, blending seamlessly into the kitchen design. They also allow for more customization options with panel-ready options and integrated handles.
These features are why many homeowners choose to have an integrated fridge instead of a freestanding one. However, this type of refrigerator also comes with some drawbacks.
Size
The integrated fridge-freezers are flush with the kitchen cabinetry and offer a sleek design that looks like a continuation of the cabinets. They are ideal for kitchens that have a modern or country cottage style. However, there are a few things to think about before you decide to buy a refrigerator with integrated features.
The size is an important aspect to consider. Integrated refrigerators are available in a variety of widths, to accommodate different kitchen sizes. They're also typically larger than freestanding fridges, allowing you to store more food in them without the need for an additional fridge.
Another aspect to consider is the depth. While integrated refrigerators are more than counter-depth fridges, freestanding refrigerators are generally counter-depth. This may limit the range of storage options, since they will not fit in all kitchen cabinets currently in use.
Last but not least, you need to take into consideration the design of the door. Refrigerators with integrated doors are available with either a hinge that is fixed or sliding model. It's important to note this because it will impact how the fridge's doors open and close. You'll have to decide if you want to split the fridge and freezer sections 50:50 or 60/40.
Aesthetics
There are many styles to choose from for kitchen refrigerators of today. Some fridges have a standout color or design that makes them stand out and others have sleek exteriors that blend into the rest of your room's style. If you're seeking a more subtle look, then an integrated or built-in refrigerator may be the right fit for your home. Our team at Spencer's TV & Appliance is here to help you locate the ideal integrated refrigerator for your kitchen remodel.
Integrated refrigerators are designed to be flush with your cabinetry and are the ideal choice for those who want to create a seamless kitchen design. The door panels match the cabinetry so that it is difficult to tell the difference between the refrigerator and the cabinets. They're also an excellent choice for those with small kitchens or open-plan living spaces, as they can help reduce clutter and keep it feeling streamlined.
The most popular type of integrated fridge is a refrigerator with a bottom freezer. This type of refrigerator allows larger items like fish, meat and even vegetables to be kept without having to sacrifice storage space. It comes with a bonus middle drawer that can be used to store wine or a charcuterie prior to guests arriving. The drawer has an additional temperature control, so you can set it to the ideal serving temperature.
Another popular style of integrated refrigerator is the French-door model. This kind of refrigerator comes with an elegant stainless steel finish that can be matched to the kitchen cabinets. This is a great choice for modern homes. It has a handleless front door which gives it a touch of luxurious. It's also simple to personalize your refrigerator with a variety of colors and finishes.
Storage
Integrated refrigerators are integrated into the existing cabinetry or the fridge housing in your kitchen. This creates an elegant appearance with no protrusions. integral fridge of fridges are a popular choice for homeowners who want to create a contemporary or high-end kitchen style that hides the appliance from the view. They also offer the quietest, most efficient method of cooling your food items than freestanding refrigerators.
You can pick from a range of storage options such as 50:50 models that offer equal 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 have a larger freezer and smaller fridge.
A lot of integrated fridges have an extra drawer that can be used to store fish and meat at 0degC to enhance its preservation and increase its shelf lifespan. There are also a variety of vegetable and fruit drawers that can be controlled by humidity to help fresh food to stay fresh and healthy.
Some models come with a "frozen compartment' which helps protect food from frost and ice. This kind of appliance will be ideal for people who enjoy baking, freezing, or cooking from scratch.
A separate freezer drawer can be installed for large platters, dishes and containers of takeaway foods. This will safeguard your food from freezer damage and cut down on the frequency of defrosting.
Flexibility
Unlike freestanding refrigerators, integrated fridges cannot be moved easily when you renovate your home or move. They are integrated into kitchen cabinets and are designed to blend with the rest of the decor of your home.
This type of fridge is often found in stylish kitchens or homes that require a high-end contemporary design. The fridge is concealed behind doors that are made of wood or brushed steel to blend in with the decor. Refrigerators with integrated systems can be connected to smart home applications that connect your fridge and other appliances to communicate with each and respond to commands and become part of a larger home control system.
Despite their attractive appearance, integrated refrigerators have some disadvantages. For starters, 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 aimed at the market of luxury that is willing to pay a premium price for the upscale design and functionality.
The installation of an integrated refrigerator can be expensive due to the need for modifications in your kitchen. This could include cutting out or removing any fillers that might be blocking the fridge's entrance and putting an additional bridging cabinet above the fridge to accommodate the door frame. Typically, integrated fridges are higher than freestanding ones and can leave an opening at the top. It is possible to add an overhang to fill in the gap. This will make it more aesthetically pleasing. If you're content with the design of your kitchen as it is it isn't an issue. If you'd like to modify it in the near future it may be necessary to build a cross-over cabinet to hide the gap.
Cost
Integrated fridge freezers cost more than freestanding models due to their sleek design and long-lasting installation. This is due to the design of cooling technology that can fit in a small space and the fact that many homeowners will spend more money for an appliance with a high-end look that does not clash with their kitchen style. In addition, they require more professional installation than other fridges, which can also increase the final price.
Refrigerators with integrated freezers also offer more energy efficiency. They are well-insulated and allow cold air to be trapped within the. This means less fluctuations in temperature and lower energy consumption. In addition, since doors are set they don't protrude from the cabinetry. This can give an impression of space and a feeling of openness inside.
The freezer section on integrated fridges will be smaller than the one available in standalone models. However, it still offers plenty of space to store fresh food items as well as frozen items. A majority of integrated fridge models feature 50:50 splits, which provide equal storage space for freezing and refrigeration.
The benefits of a fridge that is integrated are numerous. They have a sleek design that blends seamlessly with custom cabinetry, which helps to create a more cohesive kitchen layout. They also have greater storage capacity and flexibility, and can be equipped with a variety of features that enhance the functionality. It's no surprise that they are a popular choice among luxury appliance buyers today. It is crucial to take into consideration the pros and cons of each before making a choice.