Choosing an Integrated Fridge Freezer
If you prefer a uniform decor, 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, minimising chores like defrosting and adding convenience features such as adjustable shelves, twin fruit and vegetable bins, and door racks.
Capacity
When it is a fridge freezer integrated models are more popular than freestanding models. These appliances are able to blend in with the background behind the doors of cabinets. This gives them a sleek minimalist look that's appealing in many kitchen designs. This makes them a great option if you're looking to revamp your kitchen or are planning to design it from scratch. In cheap fridge for sale to their aesthetic appeal, they also provide plenty of storage space so you can keep all your food and drinks easily within reach.
However, when it comes to selecting a fridge freezer that is integrated, there are a few aspects you need to consider. It is important to first look at the capacity of the appliance. It is important to think about the amount of space you'll need to store your fridge or freezer prior to buying. You should select one with a large enough capacity for your needs however, it should not be too large so that you don't waste energy or end up with a surplus of.
You may want to consider a larger capacity appliance depending on the size of your family. A 350-litre capacity is ideal for families of all sizes, and can accommodate up to 19 grocery bags. Some manufacturers even provide fridge freezers with integrated refrigerators that have capacities of 420 litres which is ideal for families with larger numbers.
The quality of the appliance is also important. Some cheaper models may not be as durable as their more expensive counterparts. They also have problems with hinges, which are usually less durable and can easily break. You should choose an item with sturdy Hettich or Ingol hinges that will last for years to be.
If you're replacing an old integrated fridge freezer, make sure to select the same model in terms of size and split type. You'll need to make sure that the doors to your cupboards in your kitchen are wide enough to fit the new fridge freezer and that the fridge and freezer are the same height - usually 178cm. If you're planning to build your home from scratch, make sure that the dimensions match the measurements in order to find a fridge freezer that is integrated.
Design
The integrated fridge freezers are designed to fit seamlessly into your kitchen, without compromising the style that you've put in time and money perfecting. Combining a fridge and freezer together is an ideal option for those who wish to make the most of their space.
Based on the manufacturer, integrated refrigerator freezers can be found in various styles to suit different interior designs. From fully clad models that conceal the doors behind kitchen cabinetry to panels that let you show your individual style, there's something to suit everyone.
Fully integrated fridge freezers feature brackets for mounting the cabinet that secure the appliance to the front of your kitchen cabinets, concealing it completely. This design lets you modify the integrated fridge freezer to fit perfectly with your fitted kitchen, while reducing noise levels and enhancing temperature control.
Door heights for integrated fridge freezers differ too. You can find a "midi model that's about 130cm in height, while tall models typically range from 170-180cm. You can pick the 50:50 split in which you get the same amount of freezer space and fridge storage or 60/40, or 70/30, which favors more space in the fridge.
Since integrated fridge freezers are integrated into your kitchen, they're less accessible than freestanding refrigerators, which can make it more costly to repair or maintained. However, this doesn't mean you need to avoid the fridge freezer that is integrated because your budget is tight. There are many high-quality models for affordable prices.
Integrated fridge freezers are more expensive than freestanding counterparts due the cost of creating the housing cabinet they sit in. They also make use of larger motors to keep the fridge cool, which can lead to higher energy bills. That said, if you choose a model that has the latest in food preservation technology it's possible to save money in the end by throwing away less food and reducing the energy use. This could translate into significant savings over the lifespan of your fridge freezer integrated.
Energy efficiency
Fridge freezers are some of the most frequently used appliances in your kitchen, therefore it is important to select one with a good energy rating. A fridge-freezer that has an energy rating of high will use less energy than one with a lower rating, which can lower your energy costs over time. To determine the energy rating on a fridge-freezer, look for the "Energy Label" It is usually found this on the back of the appliance or in the user's manual. You can check the energy rating and consumption by hovering your phone over the label. Go to the website of the manufacturer to view the entire information.
How much your fridge-freezer uses will also be affected by the amount of food you keep within it. Even if the A+++ rating is very high bigger models will need more energy to cool. So, if you're replacing an older model, think carefully about how much capacity you'll need and check the internal configuration - whether shelves are adjustable and door storage, and whether they can handle larger items such as milk bottles.
A fridge freezer that is not frost-free is another option to consider. Frost-free refrigerator freezers employ a small heating element to prevent ice building up in the freezer, meaning you'll avoid the hassle of defrosting every now and every now and. Some models do not come with this feature. If you need to defrost your fridge, keep this in your mind.
It's also worth assessing the ease of cleaning and maintaining your fridge freezer. Most integrated fridge-freezers have shelves and drawers made of glass that are easy to clean. Some models come with LED lighting as well which is a nice feature.
Typically, integrated refrigerator freezers are more costly than their freestanding counterparts. This is because you must pay for the fridge's housing cabinet, doors to the kitchen cabinet and installation. It is important to be aware that fridge freezers with integrated refrigerators are more likely to have problems than freestanding. This is mainly because installers might not allow enough ventilation to the cabinets, or fail to install them correctly, which means they let in hot air and can overheat.
Convenience
An integrated fridge freezer offers a solution to those who wish to create a streamlined decor in their kitchen, while blending seamlessly with their kitchen cabinetry. These models are fitted behind the cabinet doors and are hidden from view, which is a popular choice for those who want to create an elegant look. A refrigerator and freezer can be combined in an integrated model, which makes it easier to store food and organize it.
The downside of an integrated fridge freezer is that it can be harder to service than a freestanding model as it is built into furniture, and taking the door of the cabinet from its hinges to access the appliance could be a bit difficult for most kitchen engineers. This is something to keep in mind if think you'll need repairs or serviced in the future, or when you're planning to sell your house and move house.
It is important to buy the same appliance when replacing an integrated refrigerator freezer so that the doors of your cabinet still fit. It is because integrated refrigerator freezers are of standard size and can fit into the 60cm by 60cm size of the housing cabinet. Therefore the doors you have installed on your existing cabinets should be compatible. You should also determine the kind of hinge your fridge freezer has and if it is either a sliding or fixed hinge, as this will impact the ease to open the doors of your cupboard.
The latest advancements in integrated fridge freezers have enhanced their performance and style. The most effective models are designed to make your life in the kitchen easier by reducing daily chores. Blomberg's HyperFresh Plus, HarvestFresh Salad Drawers and Holiday Mode are all smart features that help reduce or remove the need to defrost. You can expect a variety of storage options, including adjustable shelves, as well as useful accessories like wine racks, too.