The 10 Most Terrifying Things About Integrated Fridge Freezer
Integrated Fridge Freezers
Hidden behind subtly incorporated fascias, integrated fridge freezers are a hidden feature in your dream kitchen. Don't be deceived they're packed with smart tech and ample storage options, including wine racks and four door shelves. They also come with twin vegetable and fruit bins.
They can be equipped with Hettich and Ingol hinges to ensure long-lasting performance.
Size
The integrated fridge freezers are designed to be able to fit into the kitchen cabinetry and are generally smaller in height than freestanding models. If you want a sleek appliance that blends into counters and cabinets they could be a great choice. They're also a great choice when you don't have space in your home for a separate freezer.
However, there are a few things to consider when choosing an integrated fridge freezer. For one, they tend to be more expensive than freestanding models. This is due to the additional costs involved in buying and installing a refrigerator cabinet as well as a kitchen cabinet door and a bridging cabinet to connect the refrigerator.
It is also important to note that fridge freezers with integrated refrigerators aren't always easy to servicing. It is essential to remove the refrigerator from its cabinet and rehang the doors of the kitchen cabinet. This can take weeks or months. Therefore, it is essential to hire a reliable kitchen fitter that will be able to do the job right.
It is crucial to measure the area before purchasing a new integrated refrigerator freezer. Make sure you leave some space on either side of the appliance, so that you can open the doors. It's also an excellent idea to take a look at the hinges of the refrigerator. Many cheap models have hinges that are not designed to handle the weight of a fridge and could break after a few months.
Integrated fridge freezers come in a variety of widths that will assist you in maximizing storage. Also, you should consider the depth of the refrigerator, as it could impact your kitchen cabinetry. For instance, if planning on installing tall cabinets above your refrigerator, you might need to get the appliance made in a custom-length to ensure it is suitable. Verify that the ventilation in the refrigerator has been cut correctly. If it's not, you could face issues in the future.
Style
It's important to consider several factors before making a final decision. Integrated fridge freezers are often preferred over freestanding models due to the fact that they provide an elegant and seamless look to your kitchen. They're designed to blend into cabinets, rather than standing out and dominating the room.
They usually sit flush with the surrounding cabinetry and counters with their doors set so they don't protrude. They are usually panel-ready for an elegant look to your kitchen. Some also have stainless steel fronts for an attractive and modern appearance.
Despite their appearance they don't compromise storage space since the freezer compartment can be very large and is typically located at the bottom of the appliance to provide ample space for frozen food items. There are also a variety of width sizes available. The majority of brands offer between 20-24 inch widths that are larger than freestanding freezers.
Because of their appearance and the fact that they are integrated in your kitchen, you will likely find integrated fridges to be more expensive than fridge freezers that are freestanding. This is mainly 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 might be unable to move them if they decide to move home. You will need to disassemble the entire unit from its cabinetry and it's not a case of simply disconnecting and removing the appliance like you would with a stand-alone model.
Integrated fridges can also be more difficult to repair because they are fitted inside of your kitchen. If there is an issue, you'll need a fridge engineer to disassemble and replace any damaged parts. This can be a costly process and is certainly more expensive than simply purchasing the fridge freezer replacement.
Energy efficiency
A integrated refrigerator freezer that is high-efficiency will reduce your household bills. It will also help save energy by decreasing the amount of time it requires to run, and also be more environmentally friendly by making use of less energy. Look for models with an Aor B energy rating to make an impact.
Unlike freestanding fridge freezers, that have separate housings integrated models have doors built into the cabinetry. This allows the fridge to blend seamlessly into the kitchen and create an elegant, uniform appearance. Some models have sliding doors that permit you to open the refrigerator without opening the cabinet door. Some are panel-ready, which means that they can be layered with cabinet doors to essentially camouflage the refrigerator behind your cabinets in the kitchen.
The downside to integrated fridge freezers is that they are more expensive than other alternatives. This is partly because they're produced in smaller volumes and are more of a high-end product, but it's also down to the additional costs that come in the installation process. Additional hinges and panels, and the additional costs of making your furniture fit around the fridge are all elements.
Some integrated fridge freezers require more maintenance, and some require frequent defrosting to get rid of the accumulation of ice. Beko's integrated fridge freezers come with frost-free features that make maintenance easier and minimize defrosting.
The capacity of an integrated fridge/freezer is a different aspect to consider. The more litres you get and the more food items you'll be able to store. Find models that can hold at least 150 litres in the fridge and as much as 350 for the freezer. You can choose from a range of storage options, such as shelves that are flexible and drawers which provide ample space for fresh produce or bottle racks to store larger milk bottles. There are fridges that have integrated freezers with a 50/50 split that can be used for freezing and chilling food items.
Storage
The main benefit of fridge freezers with integrated refrigerators is that they consume less space than freestanding models, helping you make the most of your kitchen. They can also be flush with counters and cabinets, creating a seamless look. However, this implies they have a smaller capacity of storage than freestanding models.
In addition, they're typically more expensive to purchase and run than fridge freezers that are freestanding and have similar specifications. This is due to several factors, including their high cost of development and production and the fact that they're considered a luxury item and the additional cost of installation and customization.
It is also more difficult to service integrated fridge freezers than their freestanding counterparts. This is especially true if you purchase a cheap integrated refrigerator freezer with hinges that are poorly constructed and could break in time.
The size of your family and your storage requirements will determine the best integrated refrigerator freezer. You should also take into consideration how much food will be storing in your fridge, and if you'll be storing large platters or frozen food items. The majority of integrated fridge freezers will have capacities of between 150 and 350 litres which can store up to 19 shopping bags.
The best fridge uk integrated refrigerator freezers have features that help keep your food fresh and healthy. For example, some will have airflow technology which circulates cool air across shelves, while others include an antibacterial lining that will minimize odours as well as prevent mould. Certain models may even have the speed-freeze feature that quickly reduces the temperature of your freezer, so you can store fresh food items without them freezing solid.
If you want to keep your meat, fish and dairy products at a certain temperature, then you should look for refrigerators with integrated freezers that feature a BioFresh section. They are kept at a low level of humidity and will keep fish, meat and dairy fresher for longer than standard fridge freezers. Meanwhile, fruit and vegetables are kept fresher for longer in a HydroSafe compartment that's maintained at a higher humidity level.