Choosing an Integrated Fridge For Your Kitchen Remodel

A built-in refrigerator is in a flush with your cabinets and counters and blends seamlessly into the design of your kitchen. They also provide greater customization flexibility with panel-ready options as well as integrated handles.

These are the reasons why many homeowners choose to have an integrated fridge instead of freestanding ones. However, this style of refrigerator comes with some drawbacks.

Size

Refrigerator freezers that are integrated sit flush with the kitchen's cabinetry giving a sleek appearance that appears to be an extension of the cabinets. This makes them perfect for contemporary and country cottage-style kitchens. However, there are a few things to think about before you make the plunge to purchase an integrated refrigerator.

One of the most important aspects to consider is the size. Integrated refrigerators come in various widths to fit different kitchen sizes. They also stand larger than freestanding refrigerators, so you can store more food without having to buy a second.

The depth is a different aspect to take into consideration. While freestanding refrigerators are usually counter-depth, integrated refrigerators are higher than this. The number of storage options is limited since they cannot be fitted into all kitchen cabinets.

The last thing to consider is that you should take into consideration the design of the door. Integrated refrigerators are available with either a fixed hinge or sliding model. This is important because it will affect how the doors of the refrigerator open and close. You'll also have to decide whether you want a 50:50 or 60/40 split. This will determine how much space is allotted to the freezer and fridge sections.

Aesthetics

There are many different styles of kitchen refrigerators that are on the market today. Certain refrigerators feature a distinctive color or design, whereas others feature a sleek design that blends in with the other decor. If you're looking for a more discrete style, then an integrated or built-in garage fridge might be the perfect choice for your home. Spencer's TV & Appliance can help you select the ideal integrated refrigerator for your kitchen renovation.

Integrated refrigerators are designed to fit in flush with your cabinets making them an ideal choice for those looking to create a seamless kitchen. They come with a door panel that matches your cabinetry so it's difficult to know where the refrigerator's finish and the cabinets begin. They're also an excellent choice for those with small kitchens or open-plan living spaces, as they can help to reduce clutter and make it appear more organized.

The most common style of integrated refrigerator is a refrigerator with a bottom freezer. This model lets you store larger items such as fish, meat and vegetables without sacrificing valuable storage space. It comes with a bonus middle drawer which you can use to store wine or Charcuterie platter prior to guests arriving. The drawer has an independent temperature control so that you can set it to the perfect serving temperature.

Another popular style of integrated refrigerator is the French-door model. This kind of refrigerator comes with an elegant stainless steel look that is designed to match 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 luxurious. You can also customize your refrigerator by selecting different finishes and colors.

Storage

Integrated refrigerators are integrated into the fridge's housing or cabinets in your kitchen, giving it a seamless look without any forward protrusions. These kinds of fridges are an ideal choice for those looking to achieve a modern or high-end kitchen design that block the appliance from view. They are also quieter and more efficient than freestanding models.

You can pick between a variety of storage options. For instance, you can opt for 50:50 models, which offer equally space in the freezer and compact fridge. This allows you to store anything from leftovers and fresh produce, to frozen meats, ice cream, and even leftovers. You can also choose 60/40 splits, or 70/30 models that have a larger freezer and garage Fridge smaller fridge.

A lot of integrated fridges have an extra drawer that can be used to store meat and fish at 0degC to ensure its preservation and increase its shelf time. Fruit and vegetable drawers can also be controlled by humidity, ensuring that your food stays fresh and healthy.

Some models have 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 home-cooked creations last as long as you can.

A separate freezer drawer can be set up to accommodate large platters, dishes and containers of takeaway foods. This will shield your food from freezer damage and decrease the frequency of defrosting.

Flexibility

Contrary to freestanding refrigerators fridges can't be moved easily when you renovate your home or move. They are integrated into kitchen cabinets and are designed to match the the decor of your home.

This type of refrigerator is typically found in homes or kitchens that have a modern, elegant design. The fridge is hidden behind cabinet doors constructed from wood or stainless steel that is brushed to blend with the decor. Refrigerators with integrated systems can be integrated with smart home apps to connect your fridge and other appliances to communicate with each other, respond to commands and become part of a bigger home control system.

Although integrated refrigerators are amazing in terms of aesthetics however, they have a few drawbacks. For starters, they tend to be more expensive than freestanding fridges. This difference has nothing to do with have to do with mechanical systems or better performance; it's because integrated refrigerators are aimed at an elite market who are willing to pay a premium price for the high-end design and performance.

Installing an integrated refrigerator can be costly because it requires changes to your kitchen. These include cutting or removing any fillers that might be blocking the fridge's entrance and putting a bridging cabinet above the fridge to accommodate the door frame. Additionally, integrated refrigerators tend to be higher than freestanding ones and can leave an unsightly gap at the top of your cabinetry. This could require you to build an over-the-counter cabinet to cover the gap and offer an aesthetic solution. This isn't an issue for those who are content with keeping your fridge where it is, but it is something to think about if you are planning to change your kitchen layout in the near future.

Cost

Refrigerators with integrated freezers are more expensive than freestanding models due to their sleek aesthetic and long-lasting installation. This is due to the use of cooling technology that can fit into a smaller space and the fact that a lot of homeowners will spend more money for refrigerators with a classy appearance that doesn't clash with their kitchen style. They also require a more professional installation compared to other refrigerators. This could add a significant amount to the final cost.

Additionally, integrated fridge freezers provide an increase in energy efficiency. Because the exterior of these models is hidden they are well-insulated to keep cold air from getting inside, which results in less temperature fluctuations and lower energy consumption. Additionally, since doors are set they don't protrude out of the cabinetry. This can give a feeling of spaciousness and openness inside.

The freezer area on an integrated fridge will be smaller than the one found in standalone models. However, it still offers plenty of space to store fresh food items as well as frozen items. Many integrated fridge models come with 50:50 splits, which allow equal storage space for refrigeration and freezing.

The advantages of having integrated refrigerators are enormous. They have a sleek design that blends with custom cabinets, which help to create a more harmonious kitchen layout. They also provide the highest capacity for storage and flexibility, and can be equipped with a variety of features to improve functionality. It's no surprise that they are the most sought-after option among consumers of luxury appliances today. However, it's crucial to weigh all the pros and cons before deciding to purchase one for your home.