Integrated Fridge Freezers
Hidden behind subtly incorporated fascias, integrated fridge freezers serve as a subdued part of your dream kitchen. Don't be deceived they're stuffed with a wealth of storage and advanced technology such as wine racks, four adjustable door shelves, and twin vegetable and fruit bins.
They may also be equipped with Hettich or Ingol hinges, which ensure long-lasting performance.
Size
Integrated fridge-freezers are designed to be installed directly into your cabinetry. They tend to be smaller than freestanding models. If you're looking for an elegant appliance that blends in with your cabinets and counters they could be a great choice. They're also a great option for those who don't have the space in your home for an additional freezer.
However, there are a few things to be aware of when deciding on an integrated fridge freezer. One of the main reasons why they cost more is because they are built-in models. This is due to the extra costs associated with buying and installing a refrigerator cabinet, kitchen cabinet door, and a bridging cupboard to connect the refrigerator.
Another aspect to be aware of is that fridge freezers with integrated refrigerators can be difficult to service. This is due to the fact that the refrigerator has to be removed from its housing cabinet, and doors for kitchen cabinets must be re-hung, which can take weeks or even months. It is therefore essential to find a reputable and reliable kitchen fitter who will spend the time and effort required to complete the job properly.
It is essential to measure the space before buying a new refrigerator with integrated freezer. Make sure you leave space on either side of the appliance to allow you to to open the doors. You should also look at the hinges for the doors on the refrigerator. Many cheap models use hinges that aren't built to support the weight of a refrigerator and frequently fail after a couple of years.
Integrated fridge-freezers are available in a variety of widths which can to maximize the storage space. You should also take into consideration the depth of the refrigerator, as it can impact on your kitchen cabinetry. If you plan to add tall cabinets above your refrigerator, you might require the appliance to be cut to a specific length to ensure that it fits. Be sure to ensure that the ventilation for the refrigerator is cut correctly in case it's not done correctly then you may encounter issues later on.
Style
The decision whether to buy an freestanding or integrated fridge freezer will affect the style of your kitchen for quite a while to come and it's important that you take a lot of things into consideration before making any decision. Freestanding fridge freezers are preferred because they're bulky and can take up too much space. Integrated models are more sleek and seamless, and blend seamlessly into your cabinets.
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 panel-ready to give your kitchen an edgier look. Some also have stainless steel fronts for an attractive and modern appearance.
The freezer section is very large, and it's typically located in the lower part of the freezer to give ample space for your frozen foods. There are also a variety of width sizes available. Most brands offer between 20 and 24 inches in width which is more than freestanding freezers.
The cost of integrated fridges is higher due to their design and they are also built in the kitchen. This is due to the cost of a fridge housing cabinet as well as the kitchen cabinets that create the surround for it will increase the total cost.
They are also more difficult to move when you are planning to move which can be a challenge for some. It is necessary to disassemble the entire appliance from its cabinetry. It's not as simple as unplugging and removing the appliance as you would do with a freestanding model.
Integrated fridges can also be more difficult to repair because they are a part of the kitchen you already have. If something goes wrong you will need to get an engineer for your fridge to disassemble the appliance and replace any broken parts. This is a costly process, and certainly more costly than buying a new refrigerator freezer.
Energy efficiency
A integrated refrigerator with high efficiency will reduce your household bills. It will also save power by reducing how long it runs, and be more eco-friendly since it uses less energy. Invest in models with an Aor B-energy rating to make a difference.
In contrast to freestanding models, which have their own housing integrated models are incorporated into the cabinetry. This lets the fridge blend seamlessly into the kitchen and give it an elegant, uniform look. Certain models come with sliding doors that permit you to open the fridge without opening the cupboard door. Some models are panel-ready. This means they can be covered with cabinets to hide the refrigerator behind cabinets.
The downside to integrated fridge freezers are that they tend to be more expensive than other options. The reason is because they are made in smaller quantities and are part of a premium market. However installation costs are also a factor. Additional hinges and panels along with the additional costs of making your furniture fit around the fridge are all factors.
What's more integrated fridge freezers typically require more maintenance than freestanding counterparts, with a few needing to be defrosted frequently to remove the build-up of ice. Beko's integrated fridge freezers have frost-free technology that makes it easier to maintain and minimize defrosting.
Another factor to consider is the capacity of a fridge/freezer integrated. The larger the litres, the more food you can store. Make sure you choose models with at least 150 litres in the fridge, and up to 350 litres in the freezer. You can choose from a range of storage options, including drawers and flexible shelving which provide ample space for fresh produce, or bottle racks that can hold larger milk bottles. There are fridge freezers with integrated refrigerators that have 50/50 splits and can be used to store chilled and frozen food.
Storage
The main benefit of integrated refrigerator freezers is that they take up less room than freestanding models. This allows you to make the most out of your kitchen. They can also be positioned flush with cabinets and counters giving a seamless appearance. However, this design implies they have a smaller capacity of storage than their freestanding counterparts.
They also cost more to purchase and operate than freestanding refrigerator freezers with the same specifications. This is down to a variety of reasons, such as their costs to design and manufacture as well as the fact that they're regarded a luxury product, and the additional costs for installation and customization that they incur.
Additionally, integrated fridge freezers are a lot more difficult to access than their freestanding counterparts, which can cause issues when you require them to be serviced. This is particularly the case when you select a low-end integrated fridge freezer with hinges that are poorly constructed, and can break easily over time.
Choosing the right integrated fridge freezer for your home will be contingent on the size of your family and the storage requirements you have. You must also take into consideration how much food will be storing in your fridge and if you'll be stocking large platters or frozen food items. Most fridge freezers with integrated refrigerators have storage capacities of between 150 and 350 litres. This is enough to store up 19 bags of shopping.
The most efficient refrigerator freezers have features that help keep your food healthy and fresh. For example, some will feature airflow technology that circulates cool air evenly across shelves, whilst others will include an antibacterial lining that will eliminate odours and stop mould. Certain models come with a quick-freeze feature that lowers the temperature in your freezer quickly, allowing you to freeze fresh-bought products without them forming solid.
If you like to keep your fish, meat and dairy products at a certain temperature, then you should look for refrigerators with integrated freezers that have a BioFresh section. They're maintained at a low level of humidity and will keep meat, fish and dairy fresher for longer than standard fridge freezers. best fridge freezer for garage and vegetables will stay fresher longer in the HydroSafe compartment which is kept at a high humidity level.