Choosing an Integrated Fridge Freezer
If you are looking for a uniform style, an integrated refrigerator freezer can be easily integrated into the doors of your kitchen cabinets. They can be hidden when not in use unlike freestanding appliances.
These fridge freezers are designed to make life easier by reducing chores like defrosting and incorporating convenience features such as adjustable shelves as well as twin vegetable and fruit bins, and door racks.
Capacity
Integrated models are more sought-after than those that are freestanding. They can blend into the background behind cabinet doors. This creates a sleek and uncluttered appearance that is appealing in many kitchen designs. They are a great choice for those who want to renovate your kitchen or begin from scratch. They're not just attractive however, they also provide plenty of storage space. This lets you keep all your food and drinks within reach.
When it comes to choosing a fridge freezer integrated, there are some things you need to take into consideration. First and foremost you'll need to think about the capacity of the appliance. It is crucial to determine the amount of space you'll need to store your fridge or freezer prior to purchasing. You should choose a model that has a large enough capacity to meet your requirements but not too large, so that you don't waste energy or end in a situation where you have an excess.
You might want to think about the larger capacity of your appliance based on the size of your family. A 350-litre capacity is suitable for most families and can hold up to 19 grocery bags. Some manufacturers also provide fridge freezers with integrated refrigerators that have a 420 litre capacity which is ideal for larger families.
Another factor to consider is the quality of the appliance. Less expensive models may not be as durable as their higher-end counterparts. Hinges can also be a problem, since they are typically less durable. You'll need a product that is sturdy Hettich and Ingol hinges. They'll last for a long time.
If you're replacing an old integrated fridge freezer, make sure to select the same model in terms of size and split style. You'll need to ensure that your kitchen cupboard doors are big enough to accommodate the new fridge-freezer and that both the fridge and the freezer are the same height, usually around 178cm. If you're planning a new kitchen, make sure that the plans are in line with these dimensions so that you can locate a fridge freezer that will fit.
Design
The integrated fridge-freezers are designed to seamlessly into your cabinets without ruining the aesthetic you've achieved so hard for. Combining a fridge and freezer together is a great option for those looking to make the most of their space.
Depending on the manufacturer, integrated fridge freezers can have a wide range of designs to suit different styles of interior. From fully clad models that cover the doors behind cabinets to panels that allow you to show your individual style, there's something to suit everyone.
Fully integrated fridge freezers are equipped with cabinet mounting brackets which secure the appliance on the front of kitchen cabinets, hiding it completely. This design lets you customize the integrated fridge freezer to match your kitchen layout. It also reduces noise levels and improves temperature control.
The door openings of fridge freezers that are integrated differ - you can get a'midi' height model around 130cm tall, while extra-tall models are usually around 170-180cm tall. You can also choose between 50:50 splits, which gives you equal amounts of freezer and fridge storage, or 60/40 or 70/30 splits in favour of larger fridge space.
Since fridge freezers that are integrated are built-in, they can be more costly to repair or service. This doesn't mean you need to avoid the fridge freezer that is integrated because you're on a tight budget. You can still find several high-quality models at reasonable prices.
Integrated fridge freezers are more expensive than their freestanding counterparts due to the expense of building the cabinet that they are in. They also use more powerful motors to keep the refrigerator cool, which can lead to higher energy bills. If you select one with the latest food preservation technology you may be in a position to save money over time by wasting less food items and reducing your energy consumption. This could translate into huge savings over the life of your integrated fridge freezer.
Energy efficiency
Refrigerators are among the most commonly used appliances in your home, which is why it is crucial to choose one that has a high energy rating. A fridge freezer with an energy rating that is high will use less than one with a lower rating, which will lower your energy costs over time. Look for the 'Energy Label,' which is usually found on the back or the user guide of the fridge freezer. Place your smartphone in the vicinity of the label to see the energy consumption and efficiency rating, and click through to view all the information on the website of the manufacturer.
The amount of energy your fridge-freezer consumes will also be affected by how much you store in it. Even even if the A+++ rating is very high the larger models will need more energy to cool. If fridge for sale replacing an older model take a look at how much capacity you'll need and look at the internal configuration - whether shelves are adjustable and door storage, and the capacity of these shelves to accommodate larger items like milk bottles.
Another thing to consider is whether you would prefer a frost-free option. Frost-free refrigerator freezers use a heating element to prevent the formation of ice within the freezer. This saves you the hassle of having to defrost your fridge every now and again. Some models do not have this feature. If you have to defrost your fridge regularly, keep this in your mind.
It's also worth checking the ease of cleaning and maintaining your fridge's freezer. The majority of integrated fridge freezers have removable glass shelves and drawers, which are simple to wipe clean. Some models have LED lighting too, which is a nice feature.
Typically integrated fridge freezers are more expensive than freestanding models. This is because you'll need to pay for the fridge's housing cabinet as well as doors for the kitchen cabinet, and there's the expense of installing. It's important to understand that integrated fridge-freezers are more likely to experience issues than those that are freestanding. This is because installers might not allow enough ventilation for the cabinets or fail to install them correctly and let in hot air and overheat.
Convenience
A fridge freezer integrated in the cabinetry of the kitchen is a great solution for those who are looking to create a modern, streamlined look in their kitchen. They are positioned behind the cabinet doors and are hidden from the view, making them a popular choice for those looking to achieve a modern aesthetic. Choosing an integrated model also means you'll have the convenience of both a refrigerator and a freezer in one appliance, making it easier to store and organize your food items.
It is more difficult to service an integrated fridge freezer than a stand-alone one since it is integrated into the furniture. Most kitchen engineers are unable to remove the cabinet door from its hinges to gain access to the appliance. This is something to keep in mind if you believe you'll need repair or serviced in the future, or if you're planning to sell your house and move.
If you are replacing a fridge freezer that is integrated, it is vital to buy a like-for-like appliance so the doors to your cabinets will fit. This is because integrated fridge freezers are standard size and will fit in a 60cm wide x 60cm deep housing cabinet, so any doors that you already have on your cabinets are compatible with the appliances. Find out the kind of hinge on your fridge freezer, if it's a sliding or fixed hinge. This will determine the ease to access the cupboard doors.
The latest innovations in integrated fridge freezers have enhanced their performance and style. The most effective models are designed to be easy of use in the kitchen by simplifying routine chores. This includes reducing the need to defrost - or, like in the case of Blomberg eliminating it completely - as well as keeping food fresher for longer by using smart features such as HyperFresh plus, HarvestFresh salad drawers and Holiday Mode. You can expect flexible storage options, including adjustable shelves, as well as useful extras like wine racks, too.