10 Reasons Why People Hate Integrated Fridge Freezer. Integrated Fridge Freezer
Integrated Fridge Freezers Hidden behind subtly integrated fascias concealed behind subtly integrated fascias, fridge freezers are an integral element of your dream kitchen. Don't be deceived – they're packed with cavernous storage space and sophisticated technology like wine racks, four door shelves and twin fruit and vegetable bins. They can be fitted with Hettich and Ingol hinges to ensure long-lasting performance. Size Refrigerators with integrated freezers are designed to fit into kitchen cabinets and are typically shorter in height than freestanding models. They're an ideal choice if looking for a sleek, modern appliance that will blend into your cabinets and counters. They're also a great choice when you don't have space in your home for a separate freezer. If you're considering an integrated refrigerator freezer, you should consider a few things. One of the main reasons for their higher cost is the fact that they are built-in models. This is due to the extra expenses of purchasing and installing a fridge cabinet, kitchen cabinet doors, and a bridging cabinet that integrate the refrigerator. It is also important to keep in mind that fridge freezers with integrated refrigerators can be difficult for servicing. It is essential to take the refrigerator from its cabinet and then rehang the doors of the kitchen cabinet. This could take months or even weeks. Therefore, it is essential to hire an experienced kitchen fitter who will take the time to do the job correctly. It is essential to measure the size of the space prior to purchasing a new integrated refrigerator freezer. Make sure you leave some space on either side of the appliance to ensure you can open the doors. Also, you should examine the hinges on the doors of the refrigerator. Many cheap models use inferior hinges, which aren't made to withstand the weight of a fridge and often fail after a couple of years. Refrigerators that are integrated can be found in various widths that can help increase the storage capacity of your home. You should also take into consideration the depth of the refrigerator, since it could impact on your kitchen cabinetry. For instance, if planning on installing tall cabinets above the refrigerator, then you may have to have the appliance built in a custom length to ensure it fits. Verify that the ventilation in the refrigerator has been cut correctly. If not, you may have problems in the future. Style It is important to take into consideration a number of factors before making a decision. Freestanding fridge freezers are preferred because they're bulky and can take up too much space. The integrated models are more sleek and seamless and blend in with your cabinets. They usually sit flush with the surrounding counters and cabinets, with doors that are inset so that they don't stand out. They are often panel-ready for an elegant look to your kitchen. Many have stainless-steel fronts to give them a sleek and contemporary design. Despite their appearance they don't compromise storage space since the freezer section can still be very large and is typically located in the lower part of the appliance, allowing ample space for frozen food items. You can also select from a wide range of widths with most brands offering between 20 and 24 inches in width which is larger than the freezers that are freestanding. The cost of integrated fridges is higher due to their design and they are also built in the kitchen. The cost of the fridge housing cabinet as well as the cabinets for kitchens that surround it will increase the total cost. They can also be more difficult to move if you are planning to move which can be a challenge for some people. It is necessary to remove the entire appliance and cabinetry. It's not as easy as unplugging the appliance and removing it like with an independent one. Refrigerators that are integrated are more difficult to repair since they are installed in your kitchen. If something goes wrong, you must call an engineer from your fridge to take the appliance apart and replace the damaged components. This can be a costly process and is definitely more expensive than purchasing a new fridge freezer as replacement. Energy efficiency A integrated refrigerator with high efficiency will reduce your household bills. It will also save energy by decreasing the amount of time it needs to run, and also be more eco-friendly by making use of less energy. Invest in a model with an A or B energy rating to make a significant difference. Unlike freestanding models, which have their own housing integrated models are incorporated into the cabinetry. This enables the fridge to blend in seamlessly with your kitchen's design, and gives it a clean, uniform look. Some models have sliding doors that permit you to open the fridge without opening the cabinet door. Some models are panel-ready. This means they can be covered with cabinet to camouflage the refrigerator behind cabinets. The downside of integrated fridge freezers is that they're generally more expensive than freestanding options. This is partly because they are made in smaller quantities and are more of a high-end product however it's also due to the extra costs involved with installing them. The hinges and panels that are added to the furniture are a big factor here, as are the additional costs associated with having your furniture fit around the fridge. Additionally, integrated fridge freezers often require more maintenance than their freestanding counterparts, with some having to be defrosted regularly to get rid of ice build-up. Certain models have been made to eliminate the need for this, including Beko's range of integrated fridge freezers featuring frost-free technology that minimises defrosting and eases maintenance. The capacity of a fridge/freezer integrated is another important consideration. The more litres you get, the more food you'll be able to keep. Find models that can hold at least 150 litres of space in the fridge, and up to 350 litres for freezer. You'll find a variety of storage configurations, with shelves that can be arranged in a variety of ways, including drawers that have plenty of room for fresh produce, as well as bottle racks that can accommodate your larger milk bottles. There are fridges that have integrated freezers with 50/50 splits that can be used for storing chilled and frozen foods. Storage The main benefit of integrated refrigerator freezers is they take up less space than freestanding models. This lets you make the most out of your kitchen. They can also be flush with counters and cabinets giving a seamless appearance. However, this design means that they have a smaller storage capacity than their freestanding counterparts. What's more, they're often more expensive to purchase and operate than fridge freezers that are freestanding and have the same specifications. This is down to a variety of factors including the cost of development and manufacturing and the fact that they're considered to be a luxury item and the extra costs for installation and customization that they incur. Additionally, integrated fridge freezers are a lot harder to access than their freestanding counterparts, which can create problems when you need to service them. This is especially true when you purchase a cheap integrated fridge freezer with hinges that are poorly constructed, and can break easily over the course of time. Choosing the right integrated fridge freezer for your home will depend on the size of your family and the storage requirements you have. Think about how much you'd like to store in your refrigerator, as well as whether you'll be storing any large frozen foods or platters. The majority of integrated fridge freezers have a storage capacity between 150 and 350 litres. This can accommodate up to 19 bags of shopping. The best integrated refrigerator freezer s have features that help keep your food healthy and fresh. Some models will come with airflow technology that circulates cool air throughout the shelves, while other models will have antibacterial linings that reduce odours. Some models even come with a fast-freeze setting that rapidly reduces the temperature of your freezer, so you can freeze fresh-bought items without them freezing solid. If you want to keep your meat, fish, and dairy products at a certain temperature then look for integrated refrigerator freezers that have a BioFresh section. These compartments are kept at a lower level of humidity and will keep your meat, fish, and dairy fresher for longer than a normal fridge freezer. In addition, vegetables and fruits can stay crisper for longer in a HydroSafe compartment that's maintained at a higher level of humidity.