Choosing an Integrated Fridge For Your Kitchen Remodel

A built-in refrigerator is flush with your cabinets and counters that blend seamlessly into the style of your kitchen. They also offer greater customization flexibility with panel-ready options as well as integrated handles.

These are the reasons why many homeowners opt for an integrated fridge instead of a freestanding one. This type of fridge may have some disadvantages.

Size

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

The size is an important aspect to take into consideration. Refrigerators with integrated features come in various widths, to accommodate different kitchen sizes. They're also typically larger than freestanding fridges and allow you to store more food in them without the necessity of another fridge.

Another thing to take into consideration is the depth. While freestanding refrigerators are usually counter-depth, integrated fridges are higher than this. The variety of storage options is limited since they cannot be fitted in all kitchen cabinets.

Last but not least, you need to consider the style of the door. Refrigerators with integrated doors are available with either a fixed hinge or a sliding model. This is important because it will affect how the doors of the refrigerator open and close. You'll have to decide if you'd like to split the fridge and freezer sections 50:50 or 60/40.

Aesthetics

There are many different styles of kitchen refrigerators that are on the market today. Some fridges have a standout color or panel that makes them stand out, and some have a sleek exterior that blends with the rest of your room's style. If you're looking for a more discrete look, then an integrated or built-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 renovation.

Integrated refrigerators are designed to be in flush with your cabinets making them a great choice for those looking to create a seamless kitchen aesthetic. They come with a door panel that matches your cabinetry, so you can't discern where the refrigerator's end and the cabinets begin. These are also great for kitchens with small spaces as well as open-plan living spaces, as they can make the space more organized and keep it feeling streamlined.

The most common style of integrated fridge is a bottom-freezer refrigerator. This model permits larger items such as meat, fish, and vegetables to be kept without sacrificing storage space. It also has an extra middle drawer which can be used to store wine storage or to store a charcuterie board before friends come over for a visit. The drawer comes with a separate temperature controller which allows you to set the temperature according to your preference.

The French-door model is another popular integrated refrigerator. This kind of refrigerator comes with an elegant stainless steel finish that will match the kitchen cabinets. This is a great choice for modern homes. It features a no-handle front door that gives it an air of luxury. It's also simple to personalize your refrigerator with a variety of colors and finishes.

Storage

Integrated refrigerators are incorporated into the existing cabinetry or the fridge housing in your kitchen. This gives them an elegant appearance with no protrusions. These types of refrigerators are popular with homeowners who are looking to create a modern and luxurious look for their kitchens. They conceal the appliance from sight. They are also quieter and more efficient than freestanding models.

You can pick between various storage options. For instance, you can opt for 50:50 models that offer equal space in the freezer and fridge. This lets you keep everything from leftovers and 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 an extra drawer that can be used to store fish and meat at 0degC to improve its preservation and extend its shelf life. The drawers for vegetables and fruits can be controlled by humidity, which will ensure that your food is fresh and healthy.

Some models come with a "frozen compartment' that helps protect food from freezing and frost. This type of appliance is ideal when you love baking, freezing and cooking from scratch and want to ensure that your homemade creations will keep as long as possible.

A separate 'freezer drawer' is a great option for large platters, dishes and containers for takeaway food items. This will help keep fresh food safe from freezer burn and also reduce the need for frequent defrosting, keeping your freezer and fridge in pristine condition.

Flexibility

Unlike freestanding refrigerators, integrated fridges can't be moved easily when you renovate your home or move. They are built into kitchen cabinets and are designed to look seamless and blend with the rest of your home's decor.

This kind of refrigerator is typically found in kitchens or homes with a contemporary, elegant design. The fridge is concealed behind cabinet doors that are usually made of a wood or polished stainless steel to give it an elegant appearance that blends in with the decor. Smart home apps can be used to connect your refrigerator and other appliances so that they can communicate and respond to commands and become part of a bigger home control system.

Despite their attractive appearance integrated refrigerators come with a few disadvantages. For one, they tend to be more expensive than freestanding refrigerators. This isn't due to superior mechanical systems or performance. It's because integrated fridges are marketed to a luxury market that is willing to pay more for the upscale design.

The installation of an integrated refrigerator can be costly, as it requires modifications in your kitchen. This includes cutting or removing any fillers that might be blocking the way, and putting an bridging cabinet over the fridge to accommodate the door frame. Integrated fridges tend to be taller than freestanding ones, so they could leave gaps at the top. This could require you to build a cross-over cabinet to hide the gap and provide an aesthetic solution. If you're happy with the layout of your kitchen as it is it isn't a problem. But, if you want to change it in the near future, you may need to install a cross-over cabinet to hide the gap.

Cost

Refrigerators with integrated freezers are more expensive than freestanding models due to their sleek design and permanent installation. This is due to the design of cooling technology that allows them to fit in a small space and also due to the fact that a lot of homeowners are willing to spend more money for refrigerators with a classy look that does not clash with their kitchen design. In addition they require more expert installation than other refrigerators and can add significant amounts to the final cost.

Integrated fridge freezers also provide better energy efficiency. These models are well-insulated, allowing cold air to be trapped inside. This means lower temperature fluctuations and less energy consumption. In addition, since doors are set and not protruding from the cabinetry. This can create a feeling of spaciousness and openness within.

The freezer section of an integrated fridge is typically smaller than the one is found on standalone models but it can still offer plenty of storage space to store fresh food and frozen items. A majority of integrated fridge models feature 50:50 splits, which provide equal storage for refrigeration and freezing.

The benefits of integrated refrigerators are huge. They provide a seamless appearance that blends into custom cabinets, which help to create a cohesive kitchen layout. They are a great choice for flexibility and storage, and can also be fitted with a variety of features that can enhance the functionality. It's not a surprise that they're an increasingly sought-after choice for people who are looking for a luxury appliance. However, it is important to weigh all the advantages and disadvantages before deciding to purchase one for your home.