Choosing an Integrated Fridge Freezer
For those who prefer a cohesive decor, an integrated fridge freezer can be easily integrated into cabinets in the kitchen. In contrast to freestanding appliances they can be hidden from sight when not in use.
These fridge freezers were designed to make your life easier. They cut down on the amount of work you have to complete, like defrosting, as well as adding convenience features, like adjustable shelves with dual vegetable and fruit bins, and door racks.
Capacity
When it comes to fridge freezers integrated models are more popular than freestanding ones. These appliances do a great job of hiding behind cabinet doors, resulting in an uncluttered and sleek appearance that is very appealing in a variety of kitchen designs. This makes them an excellent choice if you're planning to revamp your kitchen or are designing it from scratch. In addition to their aesthetic appeal, they also provide an abundance of storage space, so you can keep all your food and drinks conveniently in reach.
However, when you're selecting a fridge freezer that is integrated there are some things you need to consider. You'll first want to consider the appliance's capacity. Storage in the fridge and freezer is typically measured in litres, therefore it is crucial to know how much you'll need prior to buying. You should select the model that has a large enough capacity to meet your requirements, but one that won't be too large so that you don't overuse your energy or end up overflowing.
Depending on how large your family is, you might think about a larger capacity appliance. A 350-litre capacity is suitable for most families and can hold up to 19 grocery bags. Some manufacturers have integrated fridge freezers that come with capacities of 420 litres which is ideal for families with larger numbers.
Another thing to consider is the durability of the appliance. Certain models that are less expensive may not be as durable as their more expensive counterparts. They also have issues with the hinges, which are typically less durable and are prone to break. You should choose one with durable Hettich or Ingol hinges that last for years to be.
If you are replacing an integrated fridge freezer that is no longer working select a new model that is similar in size and split type. You'll need to make sure that the doors of your kitchen cabinet are big enough to accommodate the new fridge-freezer and that both the freezer and fridge are the same height, usually around 178cm. If you're planning a new kitchen, be sure that the plans are in line with these dimensions so that you can locate a fridge freezer that will fit.
Design
Integrated fridge freezers are designed to slot seamlessly into your fitted kitchen without ruining the aesthetic that you've invested time and money enhancing. They integrate a refrigerator and freezer into one appliance. This is an ideal option for those looking to make the most of their space.
Based on the brand the fridge freezers that are integrated offer a wide variety of designs to suit different styles of interior. From fully clad models that conceal the doors with your kitchen cabinetry to panels that let you show your individual style, there's something for everyone.
Fully integrated fridge freezers come equipped with cabinet mounting brackets which secure the appliance on the front of kitchen cabinets, hiding it completely. This design allows you customise the integrated fridge freezer so that it perfectly matches your kitchen layout. It also reduces noise and enhances temperature control.
The door openings of integrated fridge freezers also differ - you can get models that are midi-height about 130cm tall, whereas extra-tall models are generally around 170-180cm high. You can select a split of 50:50, in which you get the same amount of freezer and fridge storage, or 60/40 or 70/30, which favours more fridge space.
Because they are built into your kitchen they're more difficult to access than freestanding refrigerators, which could make it more costly to have them repaired or maintained. This doesn't mean you should stay away from an integrated fridge freezer because your budget is tight. You can still find numerous high-quality models at affordable prices.
The cost of the cabinet which houses the integrated fridge freezers is more expensive than freestanding models. They also have more powerful motors to keep cool, which can result in higher energy costs. That said, if you choose a model that has the latest in food preservation technology, it's possible that you could save money over the long term by throwing away less food and reducing the energy use. This could result in big savings over the lifetime of your integrated fridge freezer.
Energy efficiency
Fridge freezers are among the most frequently used appliances in your kitchen - therefore it is important to select one with a good energy rating. A fridge-freezer with a high energy rating will use less energy than one with a lower rating, which can lower your energy costs over time. To check the energy ratings on a fridge-freezer, search for the "Energy Label" You can usually find it on the back of the appliance or in the user's guide. You can find the energy consumption and rating by hovering your smartphone over the label. Go to the website of the manufacturer to view the complete information.
The quantity of food that you store in your fridge-freezer will affect how much energy it uses. Larger models with greater capacity will require more energy to cool than smaller ones even if they're sporting an A+++ rating. So, if you're replacing a model that's been in use for a while take a look at how much capacity you'll need and look at the internal configuration to see if shelves are adjustable and doors for storage, and whether they can handle larger items such as milk bottles.
A fridge freezer that is frost-free is another option to consider. Frost-free refrigerator freezers incorporate an element of heating to stop the formation of ice within the freezer. This saves you the hassle of having to defrost the fridge each and every now and then. Some models do not come with this feature. If you have to defrost your fridge regularly, keep this in mind.
It's also worth assessing the ease of cleaning and maintaining your fridge's freezer. The majority of integrated fridge freezers have removable glass shelves and drawers that are easy to clean. Some models also have LED lighting which is a nice bonus.
Typically integrated fridge freezers are typically more expensive than freestanding models. It's because you have to pay for the fridge's housing cabinet, kitchen cabinet doors and installation. It's also important to note that integrated fridge freezers are more prone to problems than freestanding ones. The reason is that installers may not have the cabinets installed correctly or may leave out vital ventilation. This can lead to hot air entering and causing them overheat.
Convenience
A fridge freezer integrated into the refrigerator is a solution to those who wish to create a streamlined decor in their kitchen, blending it seamlessly with their fitted kitchen cabinets. buy fridge uk are concealed behind the cabinet doors and blend seamlessly with the fitted kitchen cabinets. This is a popular option for those who want to achieve a contemporary aesthetic. The choice of an integrated model means you'll have the convenience of having fridge and freezer in one appliance, making it easier to store and organise your food items.
It can be more difficult to service an integrated fridge freezer than a freestanding freezer, because it is built into the furniture. Many kitchen engineers are unable to take the door of the cabinet from its hinges to gain access to the appliance. This is something you should 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 house.
If you are replacing an integrated fridge freezer it is vital to buy a like-for-like appliance so the doors on your cabinet will work. This is because integrated fridge freezers are of standard size and can fit in 60cm wide by 60cm deep cabinet for housing, therefore any doors you already have on your cabinets are compatible with these appliances. Check the type of hinge on your fridge freezer, if it's a sliding or fixed hinge. This will determine how easy it is to access the cupboard doors.
The latest advancements in integrated fridge freezers have improved their performance and appearance. The top models are designed for ease to use in the kitchen by simplifying daily chores. This includes reducing the time spent the process of defrosting - or as in the case of Blomberg eliminating it completely - and making sure your food stays fresher for longer by using smart features such as HyperFresh plus, HarvestFresh salad drawers and Holiday Mode. You can expect versatile storage options complete with adjustable shelves and useful accessories like wine racks, too.