Integrated Fridge Freezers
Hidden behind subtly incorporated fascias, integrated fridge freezers are a hidden feature in your dream kitchen. But don't be fooled they're packed with ample storage and smart tech like wine racks, four door shelves, and twin vegetable and fruit bins.
They may also be equipped with Hettich or Ingol hinges, which ensure long-lasting performance.
Size
Refrigerators with integrated fridge freezers are designed to fit directly into your cabinetry. They tend to be smaller than freestanding models. They're an ideal choice if looking for a sleek, modern appliance that can blend into your cabinets and counters. They're also a great option if you don't have room in your home for a separate freezer.
However, there are some things to consider when deciding on an integrated fridge freezer. For one, they tend to be more expensive than freestanding models. This is due to the additional costs of buying and installing fridge cabinets, kitchen cabinet doors, and a bridging cabinet in order to integrate the refrigerator.
Another important thing to remember is that fridge freezers integrated can be difficult to maintain. This is because the refrigerator has to be removed from its cabinet, and doors to the kitchen cabinet have to be rehung, which can take months or even weeks. It is therefore essential to find a good and reliable kitchen fitter who will take the time and care required to complete the task right.
It is essential to measure the space before purchasing a new integrated refrigerator freezer. Be sure to leave some space on either side of the appliance to allow you to to open the doors. You should also check the door hinges on the refrigerator. Many cheap models use inferior hinges, which aren't made to withstand the weight of a refrigerator and often fail after a couple of years.
Refrigerators that are integrated can be found in a variety of widths that can help to maximize the storage space. The depth of the refrigerator can also affect the kitchen cabinets. If you're planning to put tall cabinets above your refrigerator, you might require the appliance made according to a specified length to ensure it will fit. Also, make sure to make sure that the ventilation of the refrigerator is cut correctly and if it's not cut correctly, you could face issues later on.
Style
The decision to buy an freestanding or integrated fridge freezer will impact the design of your kitchen for some time to come and it's crucial to take a number of things into consideration before making any final decision. Refrigerators with integrated freezers are typically preferred over freestanding models as they provide an elegant and seamless appearance to your kitchen and are designed to blend in with cabinetry rather than standing out and occupying the space.
They are typically flush with the cabinetry and counters surrounding them. The doors are set which means they don't protrude. They can also be ready for paneling to give your kitchen a an elegant appearance. Many have stainless-steel fronts, giving them a stylish and modern appearance.
Despite their appearance, they don't sacrifice storage space as the freezer section can still be quite large and is typically located at the bottom of the appliance, allowing ample space for your frozen items. There is also best american fridge freezers of width sizes available. Most brands have between 20-24 inch widths, which is larger than freestanding freezers.
Integrated fridges are more expensive because of their design, and due to the fact that they are constructed in your kitchen. The cost of the fridge's housing cabinet as well as the kitchen cabinets which surround it will increase the overall price.
They can be more difficult to move should you are planning to move which can be a challenge for some people. It is necessary to disassemble the whole appliance from its cabinetry, and it's not as simple as disconnecting and removing the appliance like you would do with a freestanding model.
Refrigerators with integrated components can be more difficult to repair since they are a part of the kitchen you already have. If you encounter a problem, you will require a fridge technician to disassemble and replace any damaged parts. This can be an expensive process, and certainly more expensive than buying a new refrigerator freezer.
Energy efficiency
A integrated refrigerator with high efficiency will reduce your household bills. It also conserves energy by reducing the time it runs and will be more eco-friendly since it uses less energy. Invest in a model with an A or B energy rating to make a significant difference.
Unlike freestanding fridge freezers, which have a separate housing integrated models have doors built into the cabinetry. This allows the fridge to blend seamlessly into the kitchen's design and gives it an elegant, uniform appearance. Certain models come with sliding doors that permit you to open the fridge without opening the cupboard door. Certain models are panel-ready. This means that they can be covered with a cabinet to hide the refrigerator behind cabinets.
The downside of fridge freezers with integrated refrigerators is that they're typically more expensive than freestanding options. This is due to the fact that they're produced in smaller volumes and tend to be more of a premium market however, it's also due to the additional costs that come in the installation process. Additional hinges and panels and the additional expenses of making your furniture fit around refrigerators are all factors.
Certain fridge freezers that are integrated require more maintenance, and some require frequent defrosting to eliminate the accumulation of ice. Beko's integrated fridge freezers feature frost-free features that make maintenance easier and reduce defrosting.
The capacity of an integrated fridge/freezer is another crucial aspect to consider. The larger the number of litres, the more food you'll be able to keep. You should look for models with at 150 litres or more for your fridge, and up to 350 litres for the freezer. You'll find a variety of storage configurations, with shelves that can be arranged in a variety of ways, including drawers that have plenty of space for fresh produce, or bottle racks that can hold your larger milk bottles. There are even integrated fridge freezers with a 50/50 split that can be used for storing chilled and frozen foods.
Storage
The primary benefit of integrated fridge freezers is that they take up less space than freestanding models, helping you make the most of your kitchen. They can also be positioned flush with counters and cabinets, creating a seamless look. This means that they are smaller in storage space than freestanding units.
In addition, they're typically more expensive to purchase and run than freestanding fridge freezers with similar specifications. This is due to many factors that include their high cost of development and production as well as the fact that they are considered to be a luxury item and the extra installation and customization costs.
Additionally, integrated fridge freezers can be more difficult to access than their freestanding counterparts. This can cause problems when you require them to be serviced. This is especially true if you choose a cheap integrated fridge freezer that uses hinges that are not well-made, and could break easily over the course of time.
The best integrated fridge freezer for your home will be contingent on the size of your family and your storage needs. You must also take into consideration how much food will be storing in your fridge, and if you'll be keeping large platters or frozen foods. Most integrated fridge freezers have storage capacities of between 150 and 350 litres. This can accommodate up to 19 bags of groceries.
The most efficient refrigerator freezers come with features that help keep your food healthy and fresh. Some models will feature airflow technology that circulates cool air throughout the shelves, while others will have antibacterial linings that reduce the smell. Some models have a quick-freeze feature that lowers the temperature in your freezer quickly which allows you to freeze fresh-bought products without them forming solid.
For those who prefer to keep their fish, meat and dairy at a particular temperature, look for integrated fridge freezers that have a BioFresh compartment. These compartments are maintained at a lower level of humidity, and will keep your fish, meat and dairy fresher longer than a typical fridge freezer. Fruits and vegetables will stay crisper longer in the HydroSafe compartment, which is maintained at a high humidity level.