Choosing an Integrated Fridge Freezer
For homeowners who want a more cohesive design An integrated fridge freezer can be easily integrated into kitchen cabinet doors. Unlike freestanding appliances, they can be hidden away from view when not in use.
These fridge freezers are designed to make your life easier by reducing chores like defrosting and incorporating convenience features such as adjustable shelves, twin fruit and vegetable bins and door racks.
Capacity
Integrated models are more popular than freestanding models. They do a fantastic job of blending behind cabinet doors, resulting in an uncluttered and sleek appearance that is very appealing in a variety of kitchen designs. This makes them a great option for those looking to revamp your kitchen or are planning to design it from scratch. In addition to their aesthetic appeal, they also provide plenty of storage space so you can keep all your food and beverages easily within reach.
When you are deciding on an integrated fridge freezer there are a few things to consider. First and foremost you'll need to think about the capacity of the appliance. Storage in the fridge and freezer is typically measured in litres, therefore it's important to know how much you'll need prior to making a purchase. You will want to select a model that has enough capacity for your needs but not too big, so that you don't waste energy or end with an overflow.
Depending on the size of your family is, you might be considering a bigger capacity appliance. A 350-litre capacity is suitable for families of all sizes, and can accommodate up to 19 grocery bags. Some manufacturers even offer integrated fridge freezers with a 420 litre capacity that are ideal for larger families.
The quality of the appliance is crucial. The cheaper models might not be as durable as more expensive counterparts. Hinges can be a problem, as they are typically less durable. You'll need a product that is sturdy Hettich and Ingol hinges. They will last you for a long time.
If you're replacing an old integrated fridge freezer, be sure to select a similar model in terms of size and split style. You'll want to ensure that the cupboard doors on your kitchen are wide enough to accommodate the new freezer in your fridge and that the freezer and fridge are both the same height typically 178cm. If you're designing your home from scratch, make sure that the dimensions are in line with the measurements in order to locate a fridge freezer that can be integrated.
Design
Refrigerators with integrated freezers are designed to fit seamlessly into your kitchen without compromising the design that you've put in time and money to perfect. Combining a fridge and freezer together is an ideal option for those looking to maximize their space.
Depending on the manufacturer integrated refrigerator freezers can be found in a variety of styles to match different interior designs. From fully clad models that hide the doors with your cabinets in the kitchen to panels that let you create your own unique design, there's something for all.
Fully integrated fridge freezers are equipped with brackets for cabinet mounting that anchor the appliance to the front of the kitchen cabinets, obscuring it completely. This design allows you customise the fridge freezer integrated to match your kitchen layout. It also reduces noise levels and improves temperature control.
Door heights for fridge freezers with integrated doors differ as well. You can find a "midi model that's around 130cm in height, while tall models tend to be around 170-180cm. You can pick a 50:50 split where you get the same amount of freezer space and fridge storage or 60/40, or 70/30, which favors more fridge space.
Because integrated fridge freezers are integrated into your kitchen, they're more difficult to access than freestanding refrigerators, which could make it more costly to repair or maintained. This doesn't mean that you should stay away from the fridge freezer that is integrated because your budget is tight. You can still find numerous high-quality models at affordable prices.
The cost of the cabinet that houses the integrated fridge freezers is more expensive than freestanding models. They also have more powerful motors to keep cool, which can cause higher energy bills. If you select a model that has advanced technology for food preservation, you might be saving money in the long run by throwing away less food and reducing energy consumption. This could translate into significant savings over the lifespan of your fridge freezer integrated.
Energy efficiency
Fridge-freezers are among the most commonly used appliances in your home, so it is crucial to choose one that has a high energy rating. A fridge freezer that is rated high will consume less energy than one with a lower rating and, over time, this will help reduce the cost of energy. Look for the Energy Label', that is typically found on the back or in the user guide of the fridge-freezer. You can check the energy consumption and rating by hovering your smartphone over the label. Click through to the site of the manufacturer to see the entire information.
The amount your fridge-freezer will use will also be affected by the amount you store in it. Larger models with greater capacity will require more energy to cool than smaller models even if they're equipped with an A+++ rating. If fridge on sale replacing an older model take a look at how much capacity you need and look at the internal configuration to see if shelves can be rearranged and whether there is doors for storage, and if they can accommodate larger items like milk bottles.
Another thing to consider is whether you would prefer a frost-free option. Frost-free refrigerator freezers use an element of heating to stop the formation of ice inside the freezer. This eliminates the hassle of having to defrost your fridge each and every now and then. However, there are still certain models which don't include this feature and, therefore, if you have to defrost your fridge you should keep this in your mind.
It's also worth checking the ease of cleaning and maintaining your fridge-freezer. The majority of integrated fridge-freezers come with removable glass shelves and drawers that are easy to clean. Certain models also come with LED lighting that is a great bonus.
Typically refrigerator freezers that are integrated are more expensive than their freestanding counterparts. This is because you'll need to pay for a fridge housing cabinet and doors for kitchen cabinets, and there's the expense of installing. It's important to know that integrated fridge-freezers are more likely to experience problems than freestanding. This is due to the fact that installers might not allow enough ventilation to the cabinets, or fail to install them correctly that means they let in hot air and can overheat.
Convenience
A fridge freezer that is integrated into the kitchen cabinetry is a fantastic option for those looking to create a modern and sleek look for their kitchen. These models are hidden behind the cabinet doors and blend in seamlessly with the kitchen cabinetry. This is a popular option for those looking to create a modern design. Choosing an integrated model also means you'll have the convenience of both fridge and freezer in one unit, making it easier to store and organize your food.
The downside of an integrated fridge freezer is that it could be more difficult to maintain than a freestanding model as it's integrated into your furniture, and removing the door of the cabinet from the hinges to get access to the appliance could be quite difficult for most kitchen engineers. It's important to remember that you might need to have your fridge freezer repaired or serviced in the future, or in the event that you plan to sell your house and relocate.
It is essential to purchase the same appliance when replacing an integrated refrigerator freezer to ensure that the doors of your cabinet still fit. This is because integrated refrigerator freezers are of standard size and can be inserted into a 60cm x 60cm housing cabinet. Therefore, any doors you have on your existing cabinets must be compatible. Find out the kind of hinge that is on the fridge freezer, whether it's a fixed or sliding hinge. This will determine how easy it is to get access to the cupboard doors.
The most recent innovations in integrated fridge freezers have enhanced their performance and style. The most effective models are designed to make life in the kitchen easier by reducing day-to-day chores. This includes reducing the process of defrosting - or like the case with Blomberg eliminating it completely - as well as keeping food fresher for longer by using smart features like HyperFresh plus, HarvestFresh salad drawers and Holiday Mode. You can expect a variety of storage options that include adjustable shelves, as well as handy extras such as wine racks too.