5 Integrated Fridge Lessons Learned From Professionals
Choosing an Integrated Fridge For Your Kitchen Remodel
A fridge that is integrated sits flush with your cabinetry and counter to seamlessly blend into the design of your kitchen. With panel-ready options and integrated handles, they can also provide greater flexibility in customization.
These features are why many homeowners opt for an integrated fridge over freestanding models. However, this style of refrigerator can also come with a few drawbacks.
Size
Refrigerator freezers that are integrated sit flush with the kitchen's cabinetry and provide a sleek look that resembles an extension of the cabinets. They are perfect for kitchens with a contemporary or country cottage style. There are a few factors to consider prior to purchasing an integrated refrigerator.
The size is a key factor to consider. Integrated refrigerators are available in a variety of sizes, which can be adapted to different sizes of kitchens. They're also typically larger than freestanding fridges and allow you to store more food items in them without the need for an additional fridge.
The depth is a different aspect to take into consideration. While freestanding refrigerators are usually counter-depth, integrated fridges are higher than this. This could limit the number of storage options, as they will not fit in the cabinets in your kitchen.
Last but not least, you should think about the design of the door. Integrated refrigerators can be fitted with either a 'fixed' hinge or a sliding hinge. This is important because it will affect how the fridge doors open and shut. You'll also need to decide if you'd like a 50:50 split or a 60/40 split, since this will determine how much space is allocated to the freezer and fridge sections.
Aesthetics
There are a variety of styles available for american Style fridges kitchen refrigerators of today. Some fridges have a standout color or panel that makes them look unique, and some have an elegant exterior that blends into the rest of your room's style. If you prefer an unobtrusive look or a built in fridge could be a good fit for your home. Our team at Spencer's TV & Appliance is here to help you locate the ideal integrated refrigerator for your kitchen remodel.
Integrated fridges are designed to fit in a flush position with your cabinets, making them the perfect option for those looking to create a cohesive kitchen style. The door panel is matched to the cabinetry so that it is difficult to discern the distinction between the refrigerator and the cabinets. They are also ideal for kitchens with smaller spaces as well as open-plan living spaces, as they can reduce clutter and keep it looking clean.
The most common style of integrated fridge is a bottom-freezer refrigerator. This model allows for larger items like fish, meat and other vegetables to be stored without sacrificing storage space. It also has a middle drawer which you can use to store wine or a charcuterie before guests arrive. The drawer is equipped with an independent temperature control so that you can adjust it to the ideal serving temperature.
The French-door design is another popular integrated fridge. This kind of fridge comes with an elegant stainless finish that is a perfect match to the cabinets in the kitchen. It's a great option for modern homes. It also comes with a handleless door that gives it a luxury appearance. You can also personalize your refrigerator by choosing different finishes and colors.
Storage
Integrated fridges integrate into the fridge's housing or cabinetry in your kitchen, giving it a seamless look without any forward protrusions. These kinds of fridges are the most popular choice for homeowners looking to achieve a modern or high-end kitchen design that hides the appliance from the view of. They are also quieter and more efficient than freestanding models.
You can pick between various storage options. For example you can select 50:50 models that offer equal space in the fridge and freezer. This allows you to store anything from leftovers and fresh produce, to frozen meats, ice cream, and even leftovers. You can also select 60/40 splits or 70/30 models that have more space for freezers and a smaller fridge.
Many integrated fridges come with a drawer for storing meat and fish at 0degC, which improves preservation and increases shelf life. The drawers for vegetables and fruits can also be controlled by humidity, making sure that your food stays fresh and healthy.
Some models also have a dedicated 'frozen' compartment that helps protect food from ice crystals and frost. This kind of appliance would be ideal for those who love baking, freezing, or cooking from scratch.
Another handy feature is the option to install a separate 'freezer' drawer for large bowls, platters and containers of takeaway food. This can help keep fresh food safe from freezer burn and also reduce the requirement for regular defrosting, which keeps your freezer and fridge in pristine condition.
Flexibility
Unlike freestanding refrigerators, integrated fridges cannot be relocated easily when you are renovating your home or move. This is because they're integrated into kitchen cabinets and are designed to look like a seamless piece of furniture and match the rest of your home's decor.
This kind of refrigerator is typically found in homes or kitchens that are modern and stylish design. The fridge is hidden behind cabinet doors that are usually made of a wood or polished stainless steel to create an uncluttered appearance that is a perfect match with the surrounding decor. The integrated fridge can also be paired with smart home apps to connect your refrigerator and other appliances to communicate with one and respond to commands and form part of a larger home control system.
Despite their appealing appearance integrated refrigerators come with a few disadvantages. For one, they tend to be more expensive than freestanding refrigerators. This disparity has little to do with mechanical systems or better performance. It's due to the fact that integrated refrigerators are targeted at the market of luxury that is willing to pay a premium price for their elegant design and performance.
The installation of an integrated refrigerator can be costly due to the need for modifications to your kitchen. This means cutting out or removing any fillers in the way and installing an additional bridging cabinet above the fridge to accommodate the door frame. Additionally, integrated refrigerators are typically larger than freestanding models and can create a gap that is unsightly on the table top fridges of your cabinetry. This could require you to build an over-the-counter cabinet to cover the gap and provide an aesthetic solution. This is not an issue if you're happy to keep your fridge as it is, but it is something to consider if plan on changing your kitchen layout in the 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 the design of cooling technology that can fit into a small space and also the fact that a lot of homeowners are willing to pay more for a refrigerator with a high-end design that doesn't clash with their kitchen's american style Fridges. Additionally they require more expert installation than other refrigerators and can increase the final price.
Additionally integrated fridge freezers offer enhanced energy efficiency. These models are well insulated and allow cold air to stay inside. This means less fluctuations in temperature and lower energy consumption. In addition, since the doors are inset, they do not protrude from the cabinetry. This can give an illusion of spaciousness and a feeling of openness inside.
The freezer section on integrated fridges will be smaller than those found in standalone models. However, it has plenty of space for storing fresh food and frozen goods. In addition, many integrated refrigerator models have 50:50 splits which allow for equal storage of refrigeration and freezer space.
The advantages of an integrated refrigerator are vast. They feature a seamless design which blends seamlessly with custom cabinets to create a unified layout. They also offer greater storage capacity and flexibility, and are equipped with a variety of features to improve functionality. It's no surprise that they're an increasingly sought-after choice for consumers of luxury appliances today. However, it is important to consider all the pros and cons before investing in one for your home.