A built-in fridge is flush with your counters and cabinets, blending seamlessly into the style of your kitchen. With panel-ready options and inset handles, they also provide an increased degree of customization.
Many homeowners opt for an integrated refrigerator over a standalone model due to these features. However, this kind of refrigerator also comes with some disadvantages.
Size
Refrigerator freezers that are integrated sit in line with the cabinetry of the kitchen, providing a sleek finish that looks like an extension of the cabinets themselves. This makes them perfect for contemporary and country cottage-style kitchens. However there are a few things to consider before you make the plunge to purchase an integrated refrigerator.
One of the most important aspects to take into consideration is the size. Integrated refrigerators come in different widths, to fit into various sizes of kitchens. They are also generally taller than freestanding fridges and allow you to store more food items in them without the necessity of a second fridge.
The depth is another factor to consider. Freestanding fridges are typically counter-depth, integrated refrigerators are deeper than this. This may limit the range of storage options available, since they won't fit in the cabinets in your kitchen.
Last but not least, you need to consider the style of the door. Refrigerators that are integrated come with either a hinge that is fixed or a sliding model. This is important as it will affect how the fridge doors open and shut. You'll need to decide if you'd like to divide the fridge and freezer sections 50:50 or 60/40.Aesthetics
There are a variety of styles available for kitchen refrigerators today. Certain refrigerators feature a distinctive color or design, whereas others have a sleek style that blends in with the other decor. If you prefer an unobtrusive look and style, a built-in or integrated 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 remodel.
Integrated refrigerators are designed to sit flush with your cabinetry which makes them the ideal choice for those who want to create a seamless kitchen design. They come with a door that matches your cabinetry so it's difficult to tell where the refrigerator ends 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 commonly used type of integrated refrigerator is the bottom freezer. This type of refrigerator lets you store larger items such as fish, meat and vegetables without sacrificing valuable storage space. It comes with a bonus middle drawer that can be used to store wine or charcuterie before guests arrive. The drawer comes with a separate temperature control that allows you to adjust the temperature to your liking.
The French-door style is another popular integrated fridge. This type of refrigerator has an elegant stainless steel finish that can be matched to your kitchen cabinets. It's a great choice for modern homes. It comes with a handleless door that gives it a luxury feel. It's also simple to personalize your refrigerator with a variety of colors and finishes.
Storage
Integrated refrigerators are incorporated into the cabinetry or fridge housing of your kitchen. This gives them a seamless appearance without any protrusions. These types of fridges are an ideal choice for those who want to create a contemporary or high-end kitchen style that conceals the appliance from view. They also offer the quietest, most efficient method of cooling your food than freestanding refrigerators.
You can pick between various storage options. For instance you can select 50:50 models, which offer equal space in the fridge and freezer. This lets you store anything from leftovers to 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 in the fridge and a smaller freezer.
Many integrated fridges have a drawer that stores fish and meat at 0degC, which improves preservation and increases shelf life. The drawers for vegetables and fruits can be controlled by humidity, ensuring that your food is fresh and healthy.
Certain models also come with an enclosed freezer compartment which helps to protect food from ice crystals and frost. This kind of appliance would be ideal for those who enjoy baking, freezing, and cooking from scratch.
A separate freezer drawer can be set up to accommodate large platters, dishes and containers for takeaway food items. This will shield your food from freezer damage and cut down on the necessity to defrost frequently.
Flexibility
Unlike freestanding fridges integrated refrigerators aren't easily moved during renovations to your kitchen or move. They are incorporated into kitchen cabinets and are designed to complement the the decor in your home.
This type of refrigerator is typically found in homes or kitchens with a contemporary, elegant design. The fridge is concealed behind doors for cabinets that are typically constructed of wood or polished stainless steel to give it an uncluttered appearance that is a perfect match with the decor. Smart home apps can be used to connect your refrigerator and other appliances to communicate and respond to commands and be part of a larger home control system.
Despite their appealing appearance, integrated refrigerators have some disadvantages. They are more expensive than freestanding refrigerators. This difference has nothing to do with do with mechanical systems or superior performance; it's because integrated refrigerators are targeted at an elite market who are willing to pay more for the high-end design and features.Installing an integrated refrigerator can be costly, as it requires modifications in your kitchen. This includes cutting or the fillers that may be in the way and putting an bridging cabinet over the fridge to allow for the door frame. Additionally, integrated refrigerators tend to be higher than freestanding ones and can leave a visible gap on the top of your cabinetry. You might need to install an extra cross-over cabinet to fill in the gap. This will make it more visually pleasing. If you're content with the design of your kitchen it isn't a problem. But, if you'd like to alter it in the near future you might need to add the cross-over cabinet to cover the gap.
Cost
Integrated fridge freezers cost more than freestanding models due to their sleek design and permanent installation. This is due to designing cooling systems to fit into a small space and also the fact that a lot of homeowners are willing to spend more money for a refrigerator with a high-end design that isn't in conflict with their kitchen's style. In addition they require more expert installation than other fridges and can add a considerable amount to the final price.
The integrated fridge freezers also offer better energy efficiency. These models are well-insulated and allow cold air to be trapped within the. This leads to less temperature fluctuations and reduced energy consumption. Furthermore, since the doors are set, they don't extend out from the cabinetry, which can give a more open and open feeling inside.
The freezer section of an integrated fridge is usually smaller than that found on standalone models, however, it still offers plenty of storage space to store fresh food items as well as frozen items. In addition, many integrated refrigerator models come with 50:50 splits that permit equally sized refrigeration and freezer space.
The advantages of an integrated refrigerator are vast. They offer a seamless look that blends with custom cabinets, which help to create a more cohesive kitchen layout. They are a great choice for flexibility and storage, and can be outfitted with a range of features that enhance functionality. It's no surprise that they are a popular choice among people who are looking for a luxury appliance. It is important to take into consideration the pros and cons of each prior to making a decision.
