Choosing an Integrated Fridge For Your Kitchen Remodel
A built-in refrigerator is integrated into your counters and cabinets and blends seamlessly into the design of your kitchen. With panel-ready options and integrated handles, they can also provide greater flexibility in customization.
These are the reasons why many homeowners choose to have an integrated fridge instead of freestanding models. This type of fridge may be a bit limiting.
Size
The fridge freezers integrated into the refrigerator are flush with the kitchen's cabinetry, providing a sleek finish that resembles an extension of the cabinets. They are ideal for kitchens with a modern or country cottage style. There are several factors to take into consideration before buying an integrated refrigerator.
One of the biggest factors to consider is the size. Integrated refrigerators are available in a variety of widths, to fit into various sizes of kitchens. They are also larger than freestanding refrigerators, so you can store more food items without needing a second.
Another aspect to consider is the depth. While integrated fridges are deeper than counter-depth, freestanding refrigerators are generally counter-depth. This could limit the number of storage options, since they aren't able to fit into all existing kitchen cabinets.
Last but not least, you should think about the design of the door. Refrigerators that are integrated can be equipped with either a fixed hinge or a sliding hinge model. It's important to be aware of this because it will impact the way the refrigerator's doors open and close. You'll need to decide if you want to divide the freezer and fridge sections 50:50 or 60/40.
Aesthetics
There are various styles available for kitchen refrigerators today. Certain refrigerators feature a distinctive color or design, whereas others feature a sleek design that blends with the decor. If you're looking for a more discreet look, then an integrated or built-in refrigerator may be the right choice for your home. Our team at Spencer's TV & Appliance is here to assist you in finding the right integrated refrigerator for your kitchen remodeling.
Integrated refrigerators are designed to be in a flush position with your cabinets which makes them the ideal option for those who wish to create a unified kitchen aesthetic. They come with a door panel that is a match to your cabinetry so it's difficult to tell where the refrigerator ends and the cabinets begin. They're also a great choice for those who have small kitchens or living spaces that are open as they can help declutter the space and make it appear more organized.
The most popular type of integrated refrigerator is the bottom-freezer. This type of refrigerator allows larger items such as meat, fish and other vegetables to be kept without sacrificing storage space. It has a bonus middle drawer which you can use to store wine or a charcuterie prior to guests arriving. The drawer has an independent temperature control so that you can set it to the ideal serving temperature.
The French-door design is another well-liked integrated refrigerator. This type of fridge has a sleek stainless finish that matches the kitchen cabinets. This is an excellent option for homes with modern designs. It comes with a non-handle front door that gives it an air of elegance. You can also personalize your refrigerator by selecting various colors and finishes.
Stores
The integrated refrigerators are built into the existing cabinetry or refrigerator housings in your kitchen. This gives it a seamless appearance without any protrusions. These types of refrigerators are sought-after by homeowners who are looking to create a contemporary, high-end look in their kitchens. They hide the appliance from view. They are also quieter and more efficient than freestanding models.
You can pick from various storage options. For instance, you can opt for 50:50 models that offer the same amount of space in the freezer and fridge. This lets you 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 more fridge space as well as a smaller freezer.
Many Integrated fridges come with an extra drawer that can be used to store meat and fish at 0°C to improve its preservation and extend its shelf time. There are also a range of vegetable and fruit drawers which can be controlled by humidity to help your fresh food stay crisp and healthy.
Some models also feature a dedicated 'frozen' compartment that helps protect food from ice crystals and frost. This type of appliance will be ideal for people who love baking, freezing, and cooking from scratch.
A separate 'freezer drawer' can be installed for large platters, dishes, and containers for takeaway food. This helps to protect fresh food from freezing burn and decrease the need for regular defrosting, ensuring that your freezer and fridge in top shape.
Flexibility
Unlike freestanding refrigerators, integrated fridges cannot be moved easily when you remodel your home or move. They are integrated into kitchen cabinets and are designed to complement the the decor in your home.
This type of fridge is often utilized in kitchens with a stylised design or in homes which require a premium modern design. The fridge is hidden behind doors for cabinets constructed from wood or brushed steel to blend in with the decor. Integrated fridges can also be connected to smart home applications that connect your fridge and other appliances to communicate with one with each other, respond to commands and form part of a larger home control system.
Despite their aesthetic appeal integrated refrigerators do have some disadvantages. For starters, they tend to be more expensive than freestanding refrigerators. This is not to do with mechanical systems or better performance; it's because integrated refrigerators are targeted at an elite market that is willing to pay more for their elegant design and performance.
Moreover, the installation of an integrated refrigerator could be expensive, since it requires adjustments to your kitchen. This involves cutting out or removing any fillers and putting a bridging cupboard above the fridge to accommodate the door frame. Additionally, integrated refrigerators are typically larger than freestanding models, which could leave an unsightly gap on the top of your cabinetry. This may require you to build an over-the-counter cabinet to cover the gap and offer a more aesthetically pleasing solution. This isn't an issue for those who are content with keeping your fridge as it is, but it's something to consider if plan on changing your kitchen's layout in the near future.
Cost
The fridge freezers that are integrated cost more than freestanding models due to their sleek design and permanent installation. This is due to the design of cooling technology that can fit in a smaller space and the fact that many homeowners are willing to pay more for a fridge with a high-end design that doesn't clash with their kitchen's style. In addition, they require more professional installation than other refrigerators and can add significant amounts to the final cost.
Refrigerators with integrated freezers also offer better energy efficiency. Because the exterior of these models are concealed and well-insulated, they keep cold air within, which results in fewer temperature fluctuations and lower energy usage. Additionally, since the doors are inset and not protruding from the cabinetry. fridge on sale can create an illusion of spaciousness and openness inside.
The freezer area of an integrated refrigerator is typically smaller than the one available on standalone models, however, it still offers plenty of storage space to store fresh food items and frozen items. Many integrated fridge models have 50:50 splits, which provide equal storage for refrigeration and freezing.
Ultimately, the advantages of an integrated refrigerator are immense. They have a seamless appearance which blends seamlessly with custom cabinetry to create a more unified layout. They are a great choice for flexibility and storage, and can also be fitted with a variety of features to enhance functionality. It's not a surprise that they're a popular choice among luxury appliance buyers today. It is crucial to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each before making a choice.