Choosing an Integrated Fridge For Your Kitchen Remodel
A fridge that is integrated sits in a flush position with your counter and cabinetry, blending seamlessly into your kitchen design. They also allow for more flexibility in customization with panel-ready options and integrated handles.
These features are the reason why a lot of homeowners choose to have an integrated fridge instead of freestanding ones. However, this style of refrigerator also comes with some disadvantages.
Size
Integrated fridge freezers sit completely flush with the kitchen's cabinetry and provide a sleek look that resembles an extension of the cabinets. This makes them perfect for modern and country cottage kitchens. However there are a few things to think about before making the decision to buy an integrated refrigerator.
One of the most important factors to consider is the size. Refrigerators with integrated features come in various sizes, which can be adapted to various sizes of kitchens. They are also generally larger than freestanding fridges, allowing you to store more food items in them without the necessity of another fridge.
The depth is another factor to consider. While integrated refrigerators are deeper than counter-depth fridges, freestanding refrigerators are usually counter-depth. The number of storage options is limited, since they cannot be fitted in all kitchen cabinets.
Not least, you need to consider the style of the door. Refrigerators with integrated doors are available with either a fixed hinge or sliding model. This is crucial because it affects how the doors of the refrigerator open and close. You'll need to decide if you'd like to divide the fridge and freezer sections 50:50 or 60/40.
Aesthetics
There are various styles available for kitchen refrigerators of today. Certain refrigerators feature a distinctive color or panel, while others have a sleek design that blends in with the decor. If you're looking for a more discrete appearance and style, a built-in or integrated in refrigerator could be the best choice for your home. Spencer's TV & Appliance can help you select the right integrated refrigerator for your kitchen remodeling.
Integrated refrigerators are designed to sit flush with your cabinetry, making them the perfect option for those looking to create a unified kitchen aesthetic. The door panel is matched to the cabinetry, so you can't discern a distinction between the fridge and the cabinets. They're also a great choice for those with small kitchens or living spaces that are open as they can help to reduce clutter and keep it looking clean.
The most popular type of integrated refrigerator is a bottom-freezer refrigerator. This type of refrigerator allows larger items such as fish, meat, and vegetables to be kept without losing storage space. It has a bonus middle drawer which you can use to store wine or a Charcuterie platter prior to guests arriving. The drawer is equipped with an additional temperature control, so you can set it to the ideal serving temperature.
Another popular style of integrated fridge is the French-door model. This type of refrigerator has an elegant stainless steel look that is designed to match your kitchen cabinets. It's a great option for modern homes. It features a door with no handles that gives it a luxurious look. It's also easy to customize your refrigerator with a variety of colors and finishes.
Stores
The integrated refrigerators are built into the existing cabinetry or the fridge housing in your kitchen. This creates an uncluttered appearance with no protrusions. These kinds of refrigerators are a popular choice for homeowners who want to create a contemporary or high-end kitchen style that hides the appliance from the view. These fridges are also quieter and more efficient than freestanding models.
You can choose between a variety of storage options. For example, you can opt for 50:50 models that provide equally space in the freezer and fridge. This allows you to keep everything from leftovers and 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 refrigerators with integrated refrigeration come with a drawer for storing meat and fish at 0degC, which improves preservation and extends shelf life. There are also cheap fridges for sale of drawers for vegetables and fruits which can be controlled by humidity to ensure that your fresh food stay crisp and healthy.
Some models also have an insulated compartment for frozen food which protects food from frost and ice crystals. This kind of appliance is ideal for those who love baking, freezing and cooking from scratch and want to ensure that your creations made from scratch last as long as is possible.
Another great feature is the possibility to add a separate 'freezer' drawer for large platters, bowls and containers of takeaway food. This can help protect fresh food from freezing burn and decrease the need for regular defrosting, keeping your fridge and freezer in top condition.
Flexibility
In contrast to freestanding fridges, integrated refrigerators can't be easily moved when you remodel your kitchen or move. This is because they're built into kitchen cabinets and are designed to appear seamless and match with the interior decor of your home.
This kind of fridge is often used in stylised kitchens or homes that require a luxurious modern design. The fridge is concealed behind doors that are made of wood or stainless steel that is brushed to blend with the decor. The integrated fridge can also be paired with smart home applications that connect your refrigerator and other appliances to communicate with each with each other, respond to commands, and eventually become part of a larger home control system.
Despite their appealing appearance, integrated refrigerators have some disadvantages. They are more expensive than freestanding refrigerators. This isn't due to superior mechanical systems or performance. It's because integrated fridges are targeted at a premium market, which is willing to pay more for elegant design.
Additionally the installation of an integrated refrigerator is costly as it requires adjustments to your kitchen. This includes cutting out or removing any fillers that are in the way, and adding an bridging cabinet above the fridge to accommodate its door frame. Typically, integrated fridges are taller than freestanding ones which means they can leave a gap at the top. You might need to install a cross over cabinet to cover the gap. This will make it more visually pleasing. If you're happy with the layout of your kitchen then this shouldn't be a problem. If you'd like to alter it in the near future you might need to install an over-the-counter cabinet to conceal the gap.
Cost
Refrigerators with integrated freezers are more expensive than freestanding models because of their sleek design and permanent installation. This is due to the use of cooling technology to be compact, as well as to the fact that many homeowners will pay more for refrigerators with a classy look that does not clash with their kitchen style. They also require more professional installation compared to other fridges. This can add significant cost to the final cost.
Refrigerators with integrated freezers also offer better energy efficiency. Since the exterior of these models is hidden and well-insulated, they keep cold air trapped within, which results in less temperature fluctuations and less energy consumption. Additionally, because the doors are recessed, they do not protrude from the cabinetry, which can give a more open and open feel inside.
The freezer area of an integrated refrigerator is usually smaller than that is found on standalone models however, it still offers plenty of storage space to store fresh food items as well as frozen items. Many integrated fridge models come with 50:50 splits that allow equal storage for refrigeration and freezing.
The advantages of having integrated refrigerators are enormous. They have a seamless appearance that blends in with custom cabinetry to create a more unified layout. They also provide superior storage capacity and flexibility, and can be fitted with a range of features that enhance the functionality. It's no surprise that they are the most sought-after option among people who are looking for a luxury appliance. However, it's crucial to weigh all the advantages and disadvantages before deciding to purchase one for your home.