Choosing an Integrated Fridge For Your Kitchen Remodel

An integrated fridge sits in a flush position with your counter and cabinets and blends seamlessly into the design of your kitchen. They also provide more customization options with panel-ready options and integrated handles.

These features are why many homeowners opt for an integrated refrigerator over freestanding models. This type of fridge may have a few drawbacks.

Size

Integrated fridge-freezers are integrated into the kitchen cabinets and offer a sleek design that looks like an extension of the cabinets. They are great for kitchens with a contemporary or country cottage style. There are several factors to take into consideration before buying an integrated refrigerator.

One of the most important factors to consider is the size. Refrigerators with integrated features come in various widths, to fit into various sizes of kitchens. They’re also typically higher than freestanding refrigerators, allowing you to store more food items in them without the need for a second fridge.

Another factor to consider is the depth. While integrated refrigerators are more than counter-depth fridges, freestanding refrigerators are usually counter-depth. This can limit the number of storage options, as they will not fit in all existing kitchen cabinets.

The last thing to consider is that you need to take into consideration the design of the door. Refrigerators that are integrated come with either a hinge that is fixed or a sliding model. It’s important to be aware of this as it affects how the fridge’s doors open and close. You’ll also need to decide if you want a 50:50 split or a 60/40 split. This will affect the amount of space that is allotted to freezer and fridge sections.

Aesthetics

There are many styles of kitchen refrigerators available on the market in the present. Some refrigerators are unique in color or design, whereas others have a sleek design that blends in with the decor. If you’re looking for a more discrete look and style, then an integrated or built-in fridge may be the right 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 fit in a flush position with your cabinets which makes them the ideal option for those looking to create a cohesive kitchen design. The door panel is matched to the cabinetry so that it is difficult to discern a distinction between the fridge and the cabinets. They are also great for kitchens with smaller 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 refrigerator is a bottom freezer refrigerator. This model lets you store larger items like meat, fish and vegetables without sacrificing storage space. It comes with a bonus middle drawer that you can use to store wine or appetizer before guests arrive. The drawer is equipped with an independent temperature control so that you can set it to the ideal serving temperature.

Another popular style of integrated fridge is the French-door model. This kind of refrigerator comes with an elegant stainless steel look that can be matched to your kitchen cabinets. This is an excellent option for homes with modern designs. It has a handleless front door which gives it a touch of luxurious. You can also personalize your refrigerator by selecting different colors and finishes.

Storage

Integrated refrigerators are integrated into the fridge’s housing or cabinets in your kitchen creating an uncluttered look without forward protrusions. These kinds of refrigerators are popular among homeowners who are looking to create a contemporary and luxurious look for their kitchens. They conceal the appliance from view. They are also more quiet and more efficient than freestanding models.

You can pick from a wide variety of storage options like 50:50 models, which provide equal freezer and fridge space that allows you to store everything from fresh produce and leftovers to frozen meats and ice cream. You can also pick 60/40 splits, or 70/30 models with more space for freezers and a smaller fridge.

A majority of integrated fridges have a drawer that stores meat and fish at 0°C which helps preserve food and increases shelf life. The drawers for vegetables and fruits can also be controlled by humidity, which will ensure that your food remains fresh and healthy.

Certain models also come with an insulated compartment for frozen food that helps protect food from ice crystals and frost. This type of appliance will be ideal for those who enjoy baking, freezing, and built-in fridge cooking from scratch.

Another useful feature is the option to add a separate ‘freezer drawer that can be used for large platters, bowls and containers of takeaway food. This will help protect fresh food from freezer burn and reduce the need for regular defrosting, keeping your freezer and fridge in top condition.

Flexibility

Unlike freestanding refrigerators, integrated fridges can’t be relocated easily when you are renovating your home or move. They are integrated into the kitchen cabinets and are designed to blend with the rest of the decor of your home.

This kind of refrigerator is typically found in homes or kitchens that have a modern, stylish design. The fridge is concealed behind doors for cabinets that are typically made of a wood or polished stainless steel to give it an elegant appearance that is a perfect match with the surrounding decor. Integrated fridges can also be connected to smart home apps that allow your fridge and other appliances to communicate with one and respond to commands and become part of a bigger home control system.

Despite their aesthetic appeal, integrated refrigerators have some disadvantages. They’re more expensive than freestanding refrigerators. This disparity is not due to better mechanical systems or performance. It’s because integrated fridges are marketed to a luxury market, which is willing to pay more for the high-end design.

Moreover, the installation of an integrated refrigerator is costly as it requires changes to your kitchen. This includes removing or cutting any fillers, and adding a bridging cupboard above the fridge to accommodate the door frame. Integrated fridges tend to be taller than freestanding ones and can leave a gap at the top. You might need to install an extra cross-over cabinet to fill in the gap. This will make it more aesthetically pleasing. This is not an issue if you’re happy to keep your fridge where it is, but it’s something to consider if plan on changing your kitchen layout in the near future.

Cost

The fridge freezers that are integrated cost more than freestanding models because of their sleek design and long-lasting 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 pay more for a refrigerator with a stylish design that doesn’t clash with the style of their kitchen. They also require more professional installation compared to other refrigerators. This can add significant cost to the total cost.

Integrated fridge freezers also provide better energy efficiency. Since the exterior of these models is concealed and well-insulated, they keep cold air within, which results in less temperature fluctuations and lower energy usage. Additionally, since the doors are inset, they do not protrude from the cabinetry. This can create an illusion of spaciousness and openness inside.

The freezer section of a buy fridge freezer integrated is usually smaller than those is found on standalone models however, it still offers plenty of storage space to store fresh food and frozen items. Moreover, many integrated fridge models feature 50:50 splits that allow for equal storage of refrigeration and freezer space.

In the end, the benefits of an integrated fridge are numerous. They provide a seamless appearance that blends with custom cabinets, which help to create a cohesive kitchen layout. They also have greater storage capacity and flexibility, and can be equipped with a variety of features that enhance the functionality. As a result, it’s not surprising that they’ve been a top option for those looking for the best appliances in the market today. But, it’s important to consider all the advantages and disadvantages before deciding to purchase one for your home.