Choosing an Integrated Fridge Freezer
For those who prefer a unified decor, an integrated fridge freezer is a perfect fit for cabinets in the kitchen. As opposed to freestanding appliances, they can be hidden from view when not in use.
These fridge freezers were designed to make life easier. They reduce the amount of work that you have to do, for example, defrosting, as well as adding convenience features such as adjustable shelves as well as dual vegetable and fruit bins and door racks.
Capacity
When it comes to fridge freezers, integrated models tend to be more popular than freestanding ones. They can blend into the background behind cabinet doors. This provides them with a clean and uncluttered appearance that is pleasing in a variety of kitchen designs. They are a great option when you are looking to revamp your kitchen or begin from scratch. In addition to their aesthetic appeal, they provide an abundance of storage space, so you can keep all your food and drinks conveniently in reach.
When you are selecting a fridge freezer that is integrated there are a few aspects you should consider. First you should consider the capacity of the appliance. Fridge and freezer storage is typically measured in litres, and it's important to know the amount you need before purchasing. You will want to select a model with enough capacity to meet your requirements but not overly large to ensure that you don't squander energy or end up with an overflow.
You might want to consider an appliance with a bigger capacity based on the size of your family. A 350-litre capacity is suitable for most families and can accommodate up to 19 grocery bags. Some manufacturers provide integrated fridge freezers that have capacities of 420 litres. This is perfect for families with more children.
The quality of the appliance is also important. Less expensive models may not have the same longevity as their more expensive counterparts. Hinges can be a problem, since they tend to be less durable. You'll want a model with sturdy Hettich and Ingol hinges. They will last you for a long time.
If you are replacing an integrated fridge freezer that's no longer functional select a new model that is comparable in size and split type. You'll want to ensure that the doors of your cabinets in your kitchen are wide enough to accommodate the new fridge freezer, and that the fridge and freezer are the same height - usually 178cm. If you're planning to build your kitchen from scratch, make sure your plans align with these dimensions, so you can find an integrated fridge freezer that is suitable for.
Design
Integrated fridge freezers are designed to fit seamlessly into your kitchen, without compromising the style that you've spent time and money perfecting. They combine fridge and freezer into one appliance. This is a great choice for those who want to maximize their space.
Depending 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 cabinets to panels that let you express your own individual design, there's something for everyone.
Fully integrated fridge freezers come equipped with brackets for cabinet mounting that anchor the appliance to the front of kitchen cabinets, obscuring it completely. This design lets you customise your integrated fridge freezer to match your kitchen layout, while reducing noise levels and improving the temperature control.
The door openings of fridge freezers with integrated fridges differ. You can find models with a midi height of that is around 130cm high, whereas taller models are typically around 170-180cm high. You can select the 50:50 split which gives you the same amount of freezer and fridge storage, or 60/40 or 70/30, which favours larger fridge space.
Because they are integrated into your kitchen, they're more difficult to access than freestanding refrigerators, which can mean it's more expensive to repair or maintained. However, this doesn't necessarily mean you should avoid buying an integrated fridge freezer in case your budget isn't too restricted as you will be able to find a wide selection of top-quality models at reasonable prices.
The integrated fridge freezers are more expensive than freestanding counterparts due to the cost of making the cabinet they sit in. They also use larger motors to keep the fridge cool, which can lead to higher energy bills. If fridge deals uk choose a model that has advanced food preservation technology you may be saving money by throwing out less food and reducing your energy consumption. This could lead to significant savings over the life of your refrigerator freezer integrated.
Energy efficiency
Refrigerators are among the most frequently used appliances in your home, so it is important to select one that has a high energy rating. A high-rated fridge-freezer will use less energy than one with a lower rating and over time, this will reduce the cost of energy. To determine the energy rating on a fridge-freezer, look for the 'Energy Label' - you can usually find it on the back of the appliance or in the user's manual. You can find the energy consumption and rating by hovering your phone over the label. Click on the site of the manufacturer to see the full data.
The quantity of food that you store in your fridge-freezer will also determine how much energy it consumes. Even when the A+++ rating is high bigger models will need more energy to cool. If you're replacing an older model, think carefully about how much capacity you need and then check the interior configuration - whether there are flexible shelves and door storage and the capacity of these shelves to accommodate larger items such as milk bottles.
Another thing to consider is whether you'd like a frost-free option. Frost-free fridge freezers utilize an element of heating to stop ice from building up in the freezer, which means you can save yourself the headache of defrosting every now and every now and. However, there are certain models that don't have this feature and, therefore, if you need to defrost you must keep this in mind.
In addition to the energy efficiency, it's worth checking how easy your fridge-freezer is to keep clean and tidy. The majority of integrated fridge-freezers have removable glass shelves and drawers that are easy to wipe clean. Some models have LED lighting too, which is a nice touch.
Typically, integrated refrigerator freezers are more costly than their freestanding counterparts. It's because you need to pay for the fridge's housing cabinet, kitchen cabinet doors and installation. It's important to know that fridge freezers with integrated refrigeration are more likely to have problems than those that are freestanding. It's mainly because installers may not properly install the cabinets or leave vital ventilation out. This can lead to hot air entering and causing them to overheat.
Convenience
A fridge freezer that is integrated in the cabinetry of the kitchen is a great solution for those looking to create a sleek minimalist look for their kitchen. These models are fitted behind the cupboard doors and are hidden from the view, making them popular with those seeking to achieve a modern aesthetic. A refrigerator and freezer can be combined into a unit which makes it simpler to store your food and organise it.
It is more difficult to service an integrated fridge freezer than a freestanding one, as it is built into the furniture. The majority of kitchen engineers find it difficult to remove the cabinet door from its hinges to gain access to the appliance. It's worth keeping in mind that you may require your fridge freezer serviced or repaired in the near future, or if your plan is to sell your house and move.
If you are replacing a fridge freezer that is integrated, it is crucial to purchase a similar appliance so that the doors to your cabinets will work. This is because integrated fridge freezers are a standard size and fit inside a 60cm wide x 60cm deep cabinet for housing, therefore any doors you already have on your cabinets are compatible with the appliances. Examine the hinge that is on the fridge freezer, whether it's a sliding or fixed hinge. This will determine how easy it is to get access to the cupboard doors.
The latest advancements in integrated fridge freezers have improved their performance and appearance. The best models are designed to make life in the kitchen easier by reducing day-to-day chores. This includes reducing defrosting - or, as in the case of Blomberg, eliminating it completely - as well as keeping food fresher longer with clever features such as HyperFresh plus, HarvestFresh salad drawers and Holiday Mode. You can expect flexible storage options that include adjustable shelves as well as handy extras such as wine racks too.