Integrated Fridge Freezers
Hidden behind subtle fascias, integrated fridge freezers play an invisible role in your dream kitchen. But don't be fooled they're packed with ample storage space and sophisticated technology like wine racks, four adjustable door shelves, and twin vegetable and fruit bins.
They can be equipped with Hettich and Ingol hinges for a long-lasting performance.
Size
Integrated fridge-freezers are designed to be installed directly into your cabinetry. They are usually shorter than freestanding models. They're a great choice if you're seeking a sleek, modern appliance that can blend into your cabinets and counters. They can also be used if your home isn't big enough to accommodate an additional refrigerator.
However, there are a few things to consider when deciding on an integrated fridge freezer. One of the primary reasons they are more expensive is the fact that they are built-in models. This is due to the extra costs associated with buying and installing refrigerator cabinets, kitchen cabinet door, and a bridging cupboard that connect the refrigerator.
Another thing to keep in mind is that fridge freezers with integrated refrigerators can be difficult to service. This is because the refrigerator has to be removed from its cabinet and the doors to the kitchen cabinet have to be re-hung, which could take weeks or even months. Therefore, it is essential to hire a reliable kitchen fitting service that will be able to complete the task correctly.
It is important to measure the area before purchasing a new integrated refrigerator freezer. Be sure to leave a bit of space on either side of the appliance, so that you can open the doors. It's also an excellent idea to look at the door hinges of the refrigerator. A lot of cheap models have inferior hinges that are not designed to support the weight of a fridge and could break after a few months.
The integrated fridge freezers are available in a variety of width sizes that will aid in maximizing storage. You should also take into consideration the depth of the refrigerator, since it could impact on your kitchen cabinetry. For example, if you're planning to install tall cabinets above your refrigerator, you might need to order the appliance in a custom length to ensure it fits. Also, make sure to check that the venting for the fridge is cut properly and if it's not done correctly then you could face issues later on.
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 essential to take a lot of things into consideration before making any final decisions. Integrated fridge freezers are often preferred over freestanding models as they provide an elegant and seamless appearance to your kitchen. They're designed to blend in with cabinets rather than stand out and dominating the room.
They usually sit flush with the surrounding counters and cabinets with their doors set so they don't protrude. They are often panel-ready to give an elegant look to your kitchen. Many come with stainless steel fronts to give an elegant and contemporary appearance.
The freezer section is still quite big, and is usually in the lower part of the freezer to give you plenty of space for your frozen foods. You can also select from a variety of width sizes with most brands offering between 20 and 24 inches in width which is more than the freezers that are freestanding.
Because of their appearance and the fact that they are built into your kitchen you will likely find integrated fridges to be more expensive than fridge freezers that are freestanding. This is due to the cost of a fridge housing cabinet and kitchen cabinets to create the surround for it will push up the total cost.
Some people may be unable to move their appliances if they decide to move home. You'll need to take out the entire unit and cabinetry. It's not as simple as unplugging the appliance, then taking it out like an independent one.
Integrated fridges can also be more difficult to repair as they are fitted inside of your kitchen. If something goes wrong, you must call an engineer from your fridge to remove the appliance and replace any broken parts. This could be a costly process, and certainly more expensive than purchasing a new freezer for your refrigerator.
Energy efficiency
A high-efficiency integrated refrigerator freezer can cut down on the cost of your household. It will also save power by reducing the time it runs and will be more environmentally friendly because it consumes less power. Choose a model that has an A or B energy rating to make a real difference.
Contrary to freestanding fridge freezers that have separate housings, integrated models have the doors built into the cabinetry. This allows the fridge to blend seamlessly into your kitchen design and give it an elegant, uniform look. Certain models come with sliding doors that allow you to open the fridge without opening your cupboard door. Certain models are panel-ready. This means they can be covered with cabinet to hide your refrigerator behind your cabinets.
The downside to integrated fridge freezers is that they are more expensive than other alternatives. The reason is because they are made in smaller quantities and are part of a premium market. However the installation costs are also a factor. Additional hinges and panels as well as the extra costs of fitting your furniture around the fridge are all factors.
Additionally integrated fridge freezers usually require more maintenance than their freestanding counterparts, with some having to be defrosted regularly to get rid of the build-up of ice. Beko's integrated fridge freezers have frost-free technologies that reduce maintenance and minimize defrosting.
Another crucial aspect to consider is the capacity of a fridge/freezer integrated. The larger the litres, the more food that can be stored. Look for models that have at least 150 litres of storage in the fridge, and up to 350 for the freezer. You'll find a range of storage configurations, including shelves that can be arranged in a variety of ways, including drawers that have plenty of room for fresh produce, and bottle racks that can hold your larger milk bottles. There are fridge freezers with integrated refrigerators that have a 50/50 split and can be used to store frozen and chilled food.
Storage
The primary benefit of integrated fridge freezers is that they take up less space than freestanding models, allowing you make the most of your kitchen. They can also be placed flush with cabinets and counters and blend into a seamless design. However, this means that they have a lower storage capacity than freestanding models.
What's more, they're often more expensive to purchase and run than fridge freezers that are freestanding and have the same specifications. This is due to a variety of factors that include their high cost of development and manufacturing, the fact they are considered a luxury item as well as the additional installation and customizing costs.
Additionally, integrated fridge freezers are a lot more difficult to access than freestanding counterparts. This can cause issues when you require them to be serviced. This is especially true when you select a low-end integrated fridge freezer that uses hinges that are not well-made, and could break easily over time.
The size of your family and your storage needs will determine the most efficient integrated refrigerator freezer. Think about how much you would like to store in your refrigerator, and whether you'll be storing 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 groceries.
The best integrated refrigerator freezers will have additional features that will help keep your food fresh and healthy. For instance, some models have airflow technology which circulates cool air throughout shelves, while others have an antibacterial lining to eliminate odours and stop mould. Certain models have a quick freeze feature that lowers the temperature inside your freezer quickly and allows you to freeze fresh items without freezing solid.
If you prefer to keep your meat, fish and dairy products at a certain temperature, then look for refrigerators that have integrated freezers that have a BioFresh section. These are maintained at a low humidity level and will keep meat, fish and dairy fresher for longer than normal fridge freezers. Fruit and vegetables will remain crisper for longer in the HydroSafe compartment which is kept at a high level of humidity.