Integrated Fridge Freezers
Hidden behind subtly incorporated fascias, fridge freezers that are integrated serve as a subdued part of your dream kitchen. Don't be deceived, they are packed with smart tech and ample storage like wine racks and four adjustable door shelves. They also come with twin vegetable and fruit bins.
They can also come with Hettich or Ingol hinges, which ensure long-lasting performance.
Size
Integrated fridge freezers are designed to fit into your kitchen cabinetry and are generally smaller in height than freestanding models. If you're looking for a sleek appliance that blends seamlessly with countertops and cabinets, they can be a great option. They're also a great choice when you don't have space in your home for an additional freezer.
When choosing an integrated refrigerator freezer, you need to consider some things. One of the primary reasons they are more expensive is the fact that they are built-in models. This is because of the extra costs associated with buying and installing refrigerator cabinets as well as a kitchen cabinet door and a bridging cupboard to integrate the refrigerator.
Another aspect to be aware of is that fridge freezers integrated can be difficult to service. It is essential to remove the refrigerator from its cabinet and then rehang the kitchen cabinet doors. This can take several months or even weeks. Therefore, it is essential to hire an experienced kitchen fitter who will take the time to do the job correctly.
If you are considering buying the purchase of a new fridge freezer with integrated features, it is essential to take a careful measurement of the space before purchasing it. Be sure to leave space on either side of the appliance to allow you to be able to open the doors. Also, make sure to examine the hinges on the doors of the refrigerator. A lot of cheaper models use inferior hinges, which aren't made to withstand the weight of a refrigerator, and often break after a few years.
The integrated fridge freezers are available in a variety of widths, which can aid in maximizing storage. The depth of the fridge can also affect the kitchen cabinets. For instance, if planning on installing tall cabinets above the refrigerator, you might need to get the appliance made in a custom length to ensure it is suitable. Make sure that the ventilation of the refrigerator has been cut in the correct way. If not, you could have issues in the future.
Style
The decision to buy an integrated or freestanding fridge freezer will affect the style of your kitchen for a long time and it's crucial to take a lot of things into consideration before making any decisions. Freestanding fridge freezers are more popular because they're bulky and can dominate the space. Integrated models are sleek and seamless and blend into the cabinets.
They typically sit flush with the surrounding counters and cabinets, with doors that are inset so they don't protrude and are usually panel-ready for a more sleek look to your kitchen. A lot of them have stainless steel fronts that give them a sleek and contemporary design.
The freezer section is still quite big, and is usually located in the lower part of the freezer to give ample space for your frozen foods. You can also choose from a variety of widths, with the majority of brands offering between 20 and 24 inches in width which is larger than the freezers that are freestanding.
Because of their design and the fact that they are integrated into your kitchen you are likely to find integrated refrigerators to be more expensive than fridge freezers that are freestanding. This is mainly because the cost of a fridge's housing cabinet as well as the kitchen cabinets to make the surround will increase the overall price.
They are also more difficult to move should you decide to move house which may be an issue for some. You will need to disassemble the entire appliance from its cabinetry and it's not as simple as disconnecting the appliance and taking it off like you would with a stand-alone model.
The integrated fridges are also more difficult to repair as they are installed inside your kitchen. If something goes wrong, you will need to get an engineer for your fridge to remove the appliance and replace any broken parts. This can be an expensive process, and certainly more expensive than purchasing a new freezer for your refrigerator.
Energy efficiency
A high-efficiency integrated fridge freezer can reduce the cost of your household. It also conserves energy by cutting down on the time it requires to run, and it'll be more eco-friendly by making use of less energy. Invest in models with an Aor B energy rating to make an impact.
In contrast to freestanding fridge freezers that have separate housings integrated models have doors integrated into the cabinetry. This allows the fridge to blend seamlessly into your kitchen design and give it an elegant, uniform appearance. Certain models come with sliding doors, which allow you to open the refrigerator without opening your cabinet door. Certain models are panel-ready. This means they can be covered with cabinets to disguise the refrigerator behind cabinets.
The downside to integrated fridge freezers are that they are more expensive than other options. The reason is that they are produced in smaller quantities and are more of a premium product. However, the installation costs also play a part. Additional hinges and panels and the additional cost of fitting your furniture around the fridge are all elements.
Some fridge freezers with integrated refrigerators require more maintenance, and some need to be defrosted frequently to eliminate the accumulation of ice. Some models have been designed to minimise the need for this, with Beko's range of fridge freezers that are integrated equipped with frost-free technology that reduces defrosting and eases maintenance.
The capacity of an integrated fridge/freezer is a different aspect to consider. The larger the litres, the more food can be stored. Find models that have at 150 litres or more for your fridge and up to 350 litres of freezer space. You'll find a variety of storage options, including shelves that can be arranged in a variety of ways, including drawers that have plenty of space for fresh produce, as well as bottle racks that can accommodate your larger milk bottles. There are also fridge freezers that have 50/50 splits that can be used for both storage of frozen and chilled foods.
Stores
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 placed flush with cabinets and counters which creates a seamless design. However, this implies that they have a smaller capacity of storage than their freestanding counterparts.
Additionally, they're usually more expensive to buy and operate than fridge freezers that are freestanding and have 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 a luxury item, and the extra installation and customization costs.
In addition to this integrated fridge freezers are a lot harder to access than their freestanding counterparts, which can cause problems when you need them serviced. This is especially true when you purchase 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 depend on the size of your household and your storage needs. Think about how much you'd like to keep in your refrigerator, and whether you'll be storing any large frozen foods or platters. Most fridge freezers with integrated refrigerators can store between 150 and 350 litres. This can accommodate up to 19 bags of shopping.
The best integrated fridge freezers uk freezers can include additional features that help to keep your food fresh and healthy. Some models will feature airflow technology, which distributes cool air throughout the shelves, while other models will have antibacterial linings to eliminate odours. Some models even come with the speed-freeze feature that quickly reduces the temperature of your freezer, so you can freeze freshly-bought goods without them freezing solid.
For those who like to keep their fish, meat and dairy at a particular temperature, look for integrated fridge freezers that have a BioFresh compartment. These are maintained at a lower humidity level and will keep fish, meat and dairy fresh for longer than standard fridge freezers. Fruits and vegetables will stay fresher longer in the HydroSafe compartment that is kept at a high humidity level.