The Complete Guide To Integrated Fridge Freezer
Integrated Fridge Freezers
Invisibly concealed behind fascias that are integrated concealed behind subtly integrated fascias, fridge freezers are an integral part of your dream kitchen. But don't let them fool you they're stuffed with a wealth of storage and advanced technology such as wine racks, four door shelves, and twin fruit and vegetable bins.
They can also come with Hettich or Ingol hinges, ensuring long-lasting performance.
Size
Integrated fridge freezers are designed to be able to fit into your kitchen cabinetry and are usually smaller in height than freestanding models. If you're looking for a sleek appliance that blends seamlessly with counters and cabinets they could be a great choice. They're also a great choice for those who don't have the space in your home for an additional freezer.
If you're considering an integrated refrigerator freezer you need to consider a few things. For one, they tend to be more expensive than freestanding models. This is because of the additional costs involved in buying and installing refrigerator cabinets as well as a kitchen cabinet door and a bridging cabinet to integrate the refrigerator.
It is also important to remember that fridge freezers with integrated refrigerators can be difficult to service. This is due to the fact that the refrigerator has to be removed from its cabinet, and doors for kitchen cabinets must be re-hung, which can take several weeks or even months. It is therefore essential to find a reliable, reliable kitchen fitter who will spend the time and effort required to complete the job right.
It is essential to measure the size of the space prior to buying a new refrigerator with integrated freezer. Be sure to leave a bit of space on either side of the appliance, so that you can open the doors. You should also look at the hinges for the doors on the refrigerator. A lot of cheap models have inferior hinges, which aren't designed to hold the weight of a fridge and tend to break after a few years.
The integrated fridge freezers are available in a range of width sizes that will aid in maximizing storage space. You should also consider the depth of the refrigerator, as it could impact on your kitchen cabinetry. For example, if you're planning on adding tall cabinets above your refrigerator, then you may have to have the appliance built in a custom length to ensure it fits. Make sure that the ventilation of the refrigerator is cut properly. If not, you may have issues in the future.
Style
The decision of whether to purchase an freestanding or integrated fridge freezer will impact the design of your kitchen for a long time and it's important that you consider a variety of things into consideration before making any decisions. Freestanding fridge freezers are preferred because they're heavy and can dominate the space. The integrated models are more sleek and seamless and blend in with your cabinetry.
They are typically close to the counters and cabinets, with their doors being inset so they don't protrude and are usually panel-ready for an elegant look to your kitchen. Many also come with stainless steel fronts that give them an attractive and modern appearance.
The freezer section is very large, and it's usually located in the lower part of the freezer to give you plenty of space for your frozen meals. You can also choose from a variety of widths with most brands offering between 20-24 inches in width which is larger than the freezers that are freestanding.
Due to their design and the fact that they are built into your kitchen you will probably find integrated fridges to be more expensive than freestanding fridge freezers. The cost of the fridge's housing cabinet and the cabinets in the kitchen which surround it will increase the overall price.
Some people might be unable to move them if they decide to move home. It is necessary to remove the entire unit and cabinetry. It's not as easy as disconnecting the appliance and then getting it removed like a freestanding one.

The integrated fridges are also more difficult to repair because they are fitted inside of your kitchen. If something goes wrong you will need to get an engineer from your fridge to disassemble the appliance and replace any damaged parts. This is expensive and certainly more expensive than simply buying a new fridge freezer as replacement.
Energy efficiency
A integrated refrigerator freezer that is high-efficiency will lower your monthly household bills. It will also help save energy by reducing the amount of time it runs, and be more sustainable as it consumes less energy. Choose a model that has an A or B energy rating to make a huge difference.
Contrary to freestanding fridge freezers that have separate housings, integrated models have the doors integrated into the cabinetry. This enables the fridge to blend in seamlessly with your kitchen's design and creates a sleek, uniform look. Certain models come with sliding doors that permit you to open the refrigerator without opening the cabinet door. Some models are panel-ready. This means that they can be covered with a cabinet to camouflage the refrigerator behind cabinets.
The disadvantage of fridge freezers with integrated refrigerators is that they're generally more expensive than freestanding models. The reason for this is that they are produced in smaller quantities and are part of a premium market. However the installation costs are also a factor. The additional hinges and panels are a major reason, as are the additional costs of having your furniture work with the refrigerator.
Certain fridge freezers that are integrated require more maintenance, and others require frequent defrosting to remove the accumulation of ice. Some models are designed to reduce the need for this, such as Beko's range of fridge freezers that are integrated featuring frost-free technology that minimises defrosting and eases maintenance.
The capacity of an integrated fridge/freezer is another crucial aspect to consider. The larger the number of litres, the more food you'll be able to keep. Look for models with at 150 litres or more for your fridge, and up to 350 litres for freezer. There are 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 hold your larger milk bottles. There are fridges that have integrated freezers that have a 50/50 split that can be used for freezing and chilling food items.
Storage
The main benefit of fridge freezers with integrated refrigerators is that they consume less space than freestanding models, allowing you make the most of your kitchen. They can also be flush with counters and cabinets giving a seamless appearance. This design does mean that they have less storage space than freestanding units.
They're also more expensive to purchase and operate than freestanding refrigerator freezers with similar specifications. This is due to a variety of factors including the cost to develop and manufacture and the fact that they're regarded as an expensive product and the extra cost of installation and customization that they incur.
In addition to this, integrated fridge freezers are harder to access than their freestanding counterparts, which can cause problems when you need them serviced. This is especially the case if you choose a cheap integrated fridge freezer that has hinges that are not well-made, and could break easily over time.
The size of your family and storage requirements will determine the best integrated fridge freezer. Think about how much you'd like to keep in your refrigerator, and whether you'll be storing any large platters or frozen foods. The majority of fridge freezers that are integrated will have capacities between 150 and 350 litres which can store up to 19 shopping bags.
The top integrated refrigerator freezers have features that help keep your food healthy and fresh. Certain models will have airflow technology, which distributes cool air evenly across the shelves, while others will have antibacterial linings to lessen odours. Certain models may even have a fast-freeze setting that rapidly reduces the temperature of your freezer, so you can freeze fresh-bought items without them freezing solid.
For those who prefer to keep their meat, fish and dairy at a particular temperature, you should look for integrated fridge freezers that have a BioFresh compartment. They're maintained at a low level of humidity and will keep fish, meat and dairy fresher for a longer period than conventional fridge freezers. Meanwhile, fruit and vegetables can be kept fresher for longer in a HydroSafe compartment that is maintained at a higher level of humidity.