Choosing an Integrated Fridge For Your Kitchen Remodel

A fridge that is integrated sits in a flush position with your counter and cabinets to seamlessly blend into the design of your kitchen. They also provide more customization options by incorporating panel-ready options and handles.

Many homeowners opt for an integrated refrigerator over a standalone model due to these features. However, this style of refrigerator also comes with some disadvantages.

Size

Integrated fridge-freezers are integrated into the kitchen cabinets and give a sleek appearance that looks like a continuation of the cabinets. They are ideal for kitchens with a modern or country cottage style. However there are some things to consider before making the decision to buy a refrigerator with integrated features.

The size is an important aspect to consider. Refrigerators with integrated features come in various widths, to accommodate various kitchen sizes. They are also generally taller than freestanding fridges and allow you to store more food items in them without the necessity of another fridge.

Another thing to take into consideration is the depth. While integrated refrigerators are deeper than counter-depth refrigerators, freestanding refrigerators are typically counter-depth. This can limit the number of storage options available, since they won't fit in all kitchen cabinets currently in use.

Lastly, you should consider the door style. Refrigerators with integrated doors can be fitted with either a fixed hinge or a sliding hinge model. This is crucial because it affects how the refrigerator doors open and close. It is also important to decide if you want a 50:50 split or a 60/40 split, as this will affect the amount of space that is allocated to the freezer and fridge sections.

Aesthetics

There are many styles to choose from for refrigerators in the kitchen today. Certain refrigerators are distinguished by a color or panel that makes them stand out and others have sleek exteriors that blend with the rest of the room's design. If you're looking for a more discrete look and style, then an integrated fridge or built-in one may be the right option for your home. Spencer's TV & Appliance can help you select the ideal integrated refrigerator for your kitchen remodel.

Integrated refrigerators are designed to fit perfectly with your cabinets, making them a perfect option for those who want to create a seamless kitchen aesthetic. The door panels match the cabinetry, so you can't discern a distinction between the refrigerator and the cabinets. They're also an excellent choice for those with small kitchens or living spaces that are open because they help declutter the space and keep it feeling streamlined.

The most popular type of integrated refrigerator is the bottom freezer. This model lets you store larger items such as fish, meat, and other vegetables without sacrificing storage space. It has a bonus middle drawer that you can use to store wine or appetizer before guests arrive. The drawer is equipped with a separate temperature control so you can adjust it to the ideal serving temperature.

Another popular style of integrated refrigerator is the French-door model. This type of refrigerator has a sleek stainless steel finish that is designed to match your kitchen cabinets. It's a great option for modern homes. It also features a door with no handles that gives it a luxurious look. You can also personalize your refrigerator by picking different finishes and colors.

Stores

Integrated refrigerators are integrated into the fridge housing or existing cabinets in your kitchen creating a seamless look without any forward protrusions. These kinds of refrigerators are popular with homeowners who are looking to create a modern elegant look in their kitchens. They conceal the appliance from view. They also provide a quieter, more efficient way to cool your food than freestanding refrigerators.

You can choose from a range of storage options such as 50:50 models that offer a similar fridge and freezer space, allowing you to store everything from fresh produce and leftovers to frozen meats and ice cream. You can also opt for 60/40 splits, or 70/30 models, which come with a larger fridge space and smaller freezer.

A lot of integrated fridges have an extra drawer that can be used to store meat and fish at 0°C to improve its preservation and increase its shelf lifespan. There are also a range of vegetable and fruit drawers which can be controlled by humidity to ensure that your fresh food stay crisp and healthy.

Some models also feature an insulated compartment for frozen food which helps to protect food from ice crystals and frost. This kind of appliance would be ideal for people who love baking, freezing, and cooking from scratch.

A separate freezer drawer can be set up to accommodate large platters, dishes and containers for takeaway food. This can help protect fresh food from freezer burn and also reduce the need for frequent defrosting, ensuring that your freezer and fridge in top shape.

Flexibility

Contrary to freestanding fridges and freestanding units, integrated refrigerators can't be easily moved when you renovate your kitchen or move house. They are integrated into kitchen cabinets and are designed to appear seamless and match with the interior of your home.

This type of fridge is usually utilized in kitchens with a stylised design or in homes that require a high-end contemporary design. The fridge is hidden behind doors for cabinets that are typically made of wood or polished stainless steel to create a seamless appearance that is a perfect match with the decor. Integrated fridges can also be integrated with smart home apps that allow your refrigerator and other appliances to communicate with each with each other, respond to commands and form part of a larger home control system.

Despite their attractive appearance integrated refrigerators come with a few disadvantages. They are more expensive than freestanding refrigerators. This isn't due to better mechanical systems or performance. It's because integrated fridges cheap are marketed to a luxury market, who are willing to pay more for high-end design.

The installation of an integrated refrigerator can be costly due to the need for modifications in your kitchen. This involves cutting out or removing any fillers in the way, and adding an bridging cabinet above the fridge to accommodate its door frame. Additionally, integrated refrigerators tend to be larger than freestanding models, which could leave a visible gap at the top of your cabinetry. You might need to install a cross over cabinet to fill in the gap. This makes it more visually pleasing. If you're happy with the design of your kitchen as it is it isn't a problem. But, if you want to change it in the future it may be necessary to build an over-the-counter cabinet to conceal the gap.

Cost

Refrigerators with integrated freezers are more expensive than freestanding models due to their sleek design and long-lasting installation. This is a result of the design of cooling technology that can be compact and the fact that many homeowners are willing to pay more for a fridge with a premium design that isn't in conflict with the style of their kitchen. Adding to this, they require more professional installation than other refrigerators, which can also add a considerable amount to the final price.

Integrated outdoor Fridge freezers also provide better energy efficiency. Because the exterior of these models is hidden, they are well-insulated to keep cold air within, which results in fewer temperature fluctuations as well as lower energy usage. Additionally, since the doors are recessed, they don't protrude from the cabinetry, which can give a more open and open-air feel inside.

The freezer area of an integrated fridge is usually smaller than those available on standalone models, however, it still offers plenty of storage space to store fresh food items and frozen items. In addition, many integrated refrigerator models come with 50:50 splits that permit equally sized refrigeration and freezer space.

The benefits of integrated refrigerators are huge. They are sleek and stylish which blends seamlessly with custom cabinets to create a unified layout. They also have greater storage capacity and flexibility, and are fitted with a range of features to enhance functionality. This is why it's not surprising that they have become a top choice for those looking for the best appliances in the market today. But, it's important to weigh all the advantages and disadvantages before deciding to purchase one for your home.