Choosing an Integrated Fridge Freezer

If you are looking for a uniform decor, an integrated refrigerator freezer can be easily integrated into the kitchen cabinet doors. In contrast to freestanding appliances they are able to be concealed from sight when not being used.

These fridge freezers are designed to make your life easier by reducing chores like defrosting and incorporating convenience features such as adjustable shelves, twin fruit and vegetable bins and door racks.

Capacity

Integrated models are more popular than freestanding models. They do a fantastic job of disappearing from sight behind cabinet doors, creating an uncluttered and sleek appearance which is appealing in a variety of kitchen designs. They are a great option if you want to remodel your kitchen or start from scratch. They are not only attractive however, they also provide a lot of storage space. This allows you to keep all your food and beverages within easy reach.

When it comes to selecting a fridge freezer that is integrated there are some things to take into consideration. First, you must consider the appliance's capacity. It is crucial to determine the amount of space you'll need to store your fridge or freezer before purchasing. You should choose one with enough capacity to meet your requirements but not too big, so you don't waste any energy or end in a situation where you have an excess.

You might want to think about the larger capacity of your appliance based on the size of your family. A 350-litre capacity is ideal for families of all sizes, and can hold up to 19 grocery bags. Some manufacturers even have integrated fridge freezers that come with capacities of 420 litres which is ideal for larger families.

The quality of the appliance is crucial. Certain models that are less expensive may not be as durable as more expensive counterparts. They also have issues with the hinges, which are often less robust and easily break. You'll want to choose an item with sturdy Hettich or Ingol hinges that will last for many years to be.

If you are replacing an integrated fridge freezer clearance freezer that is no longer working Choose a model that is similar in size and split type. You'll need to make sure that your kitchen cupboard doors are large enough to accommodate the fridge freezer and that the fridge and the freezer are the same height, typically around 178cm. If you're planning to build a new kitchen, make sure the plans match up with these dimensions so you can find a fridge freezer that fits.

Design

The integrated fridge-freezers are designed to fit seamlessly into your fitted cabinets without compromising the style you've worked so hard to achieve. They incorporate a refrigerator and freezer into one appliance. This is a great choice for those looking to maximize their space.

Based on the brand the fridge freezers that are integrated come in a variety of designs that can be adapted to different interior styles. From fully clad models that cover the doors behind kitchen cabinetry to panels that allow you to express your own individual style, there's something to suit everyone.

Fully integrated fridge freezers come equipped with cabinet mounting brackets which anchor the appliance to the front of the cabinets in the kitchen, concealing it completely. This design allows you to modify the integrated fridge freezer to match your kitchen layout while reducing noise and improving temperature control.

Door heights for integrated fridge freezers differ too. You can find a'midi model that's around 130cm in height, while tall models tend to be around 170-180cm. You can also pick between 50:50 splits, where you get equal amounts of fridge and freezer storage, or 60/40 or 70/30 splits to take advantage of larger fridge space.

Because integrated fridge freezers are built into your kitchen they are less accessible than freestanding refrigerators, which could result in a higher cost to have them repaired or maintained. But this doesn't mean you should avoid purchasing a fridge freezer that is integrated when your budget isn't as limited as you can find plenty of high-quality models at affordable prices.

Integrated fridge freezers are more expensive than freestanding counterparts due to the cost of making the cabinet they sit in. They also use more powerful motors to keep cool, which can result in higher energy costs. If you choose one that is equipped with advanced food preservation technology you may be saving money over time by throwing out less food items and reducing your energy usage. This could result in substantial savings over the lifespan of your refrigerator freezer.

Energy efficiency

Refrigerator freezers are among the most frequently used appliances in your kitchen - therefore it is important to select one that has a high energy rating. A fridge-freezer that has a high energy rating will use less than one with a lower energy rating, which will lower your energy costs over time. Look for the 'Energy Label', which is usually found on the back or in the user guide of the fridge-freezer. Hover your smartphone over the label to see the energy consumption and efficiency ratings and then click to view the full information on the website of the manufacturer.

The amount of energy your fridge-freezer consumes will also be influenced by the amount you store within it. Larger models with more capacity will naturally require more energy to cool than smaller models, even if they have an A+++ rating. If you're replacing a model that's older, consider how much space you need. Also, take a look at the internal configuration to see whether there are any adjustable shelves or door storage and if it can accommodate larger items like milk bottles.

Another thing to think about is whether you'd like a frost-free model. Frost-free fridge freezers use a small heating element to prevent the formation of ice in the freezer, which means you can save yourself the hassle of defrosting every now and then. However, there are certain models which don't include this feature and, therefore, if you require defrosting, it's worth bearing this in your mind.

It's also worth assessing the ease of cleaning and maintaining your fridge's freezer. The majority of integrated fridge-freezers come with shelves and drawers made of glass that are easy to clean. Some models also have LED lighting, which is an added benefit.

Typically integrated fridge freezers are more expensive than their freestanding counterparts. This is because you need to pay for the fridge's housing cabinet as well as doors for the kitchen cabinet, and there's the cost of installation. It's important to know that fridge freezers with integrated refrigeration are more prone to problems than freestanding. This is due to the fact that installers might not allow enough ventilation to the cabinets, or fail to set them up correctly and let in hot air and overheat.

Convenience

A fridge freezer that is integrated offers an option for those who want to create a sleek look in their kitchen, while blending seamlessly with their kitchen cabinetry. They are positioned behind the cabinet doors and are hidden from the view, making them popular with those seeking to achieve an elegant look. A refrigerator and freezer can be combined in an integrated model, which makes it easier to store food and organise it.

The drawback of having an integrated fridge freezer is that it can be more difficult to service than a standalone model since it is built into furniture, and removing the door of the cabinet from its hinges to access the appliance could be a challenge for the majority of kitchen engineers. This may be something to be aware of if you think you'll need your fridge freezer repaired or serviced in the near future or when you're planning to sell your property and move house.

If you are replacing an integrated fridge freezer, it is vital to purchase a similar appliance to ensure that the doors to your cabinets will be able to fit. This is because integrated refrigerator freezers are of standard size and can be inserted into 60cm x 60cm of housing cabinet. Therefore, any doors you have on your existing cabinets must be compatible. Examine the hinge on your fridge freezer, if it's a sliding or fixed hinge. This will determine the ease to access the cupboard doors.

The latest innovations in integrated fridge freezers have improved their performance and design. The most effective models are designed to make your life in the kitchen easier by reducing daily chores. This includes minimising defrosting - or, as in the case of Blomberg, eliminating it completely - as well as keeping your food fresher for longer with smart features like HyperFresh plus, HarvestFresh salad drawers and Holiday Mode. You can expect a variety of storage options complete with adjustable shelves as well as useful accessories like wine racks too.