Integrated Fridge Freezers
Refrigerators with integrated freezers are ideal for creating a seamless look in the kitchen. This is because they are hidden behind cabinet doors that match the rest of the cabinetry, thus removing any break in material finishes which could make a room feel busy and disjointed.
However, they may be harder to access for servicing and removal if you move house. They also cost more than freestanding units.
Aesthetics
The integrated fridge freezer is a popular choice for homeowners who want to create a sleek and modern aesthetic in their kitchen. These appliances are hidden behind doors to cabinets, which means they are able to seamlessly blend into the existing design. These appliances are a good option for those who prefer minimalist designs or have smaller kitchens and need to maximize space.
The primary difference between built-in and integrated refrigerators is that built-in models feature doors or handles that protrude out of the way. However, even with the difference in appearance both fridges are a great addition to any home. There is the right model to complement the style of your kitchen, whether you're looking for an integrated refrigerator with a French-style door, or an integrated refrigerator that has an Ice & Water Dispenser.
Fisher & Paykel offers a variety of integrated fridges that will work with any kitchen style. The RS36A72J1N model, for instance is an integrated refrigerator with an integrated French door and an ice maker that features a elegant and sleek design as well as energy efficiency. The appliance also has digital display and an integrated timer that allows you to keep the track of your food storage schedule.
While some may find a fridge that is freestanding ugly while others love it and it all depends on your personal preferences. However, if you're looking for a refrigerator that is as seamless as is possible in your kitchen, an integrated fridge is the best option.
It's important to keep in mind that if you purchase an integrated refrigerator, you'll need have your kitchen cabinets custom-made to accommodate the new appliance. This can be costly, but it's a great investment that will make your kitchen look more modern and stylish. Additionally, should you decide to sell your home the integrated refrigerator will enhance the value of the home. For more details on the different types of integrated refrigerators that are available on the market, make sure to contact a professional. They can assist you in choosing the ideal refrigerator that will meet your budget and needs.
Simple to Use
The fridge freezers integrated into the fridge blend seamlessly into your kitchen and make it easier to store food. They can be reversible to fit any kitchen layout, and a lot come with LED lighting, making them brighter and more energy efficient. Some models come with anti-fingerprint technology to reduce the build-up of grime. They also have shelves that are adjustable to ensure a perfect fit and to give you more storage space for large objects, such as bottles.
The stainless steel finish makes them easy to clean, and the anti-bacterial lining prevents the odours. Some fridge freezers with integrated refrigerators come with features like fast-freeze settings that reduce the temperature of the appliance quickly to ensure food stays fresher for longer.
The main reason people choose an integrated refrigerator freezer is to save on space. They can be incorporated into the space in which a freestanding refrigerator or freezer could be. This lets you use this area for other appliances like ovens and dishwashers. These appliances are also more permanent, which means you don't have to worry about moving them if you move.
Another reason why integrated fridge freezers are so popular is because they offer more choice when it comes to size and specifications. There are various sizes available and you can also get top-mounted fridge freezers. This means you will have more space in your fridge without having to compromise on freezer space.
The size and width of integrated fridge freezers vary as well, with some having smaller sizes, while others being between 170-180cm tall. You can also select a 50/50 split model or a 70%/30 split that has more freezer space than fridge space.
However, with the popularity of fridge freezers with integrated refrigerators comes a host of problems that can make them less than ideal option for some consumers. Installers can sometimes ignore the instructions to install, which can result in inadequate ventilation which could lead to the machine becoming overheated. Inevitably this can lead to the machines breaking down and requiring repairs, which could be costly.
Energy Efficiency
It is important to think about the energy efficiency of integrated and freestanding fridge freezers. The most efficient fridge freezers cool quickly to ensure that nutrients are retained and keep your food fresher for longer, which means they won't need to work as much. However, the worst fridge freezers struggle to stay cool and use more energy to cool, which can increase the cost of electricity.
Refrigerators with integrated freezers are generally more expensive than freestanding models. This is largely to do with the fact that they are more expensive to manufacture than freestanding freezers and fridges. In addition, manufacturers tend sell smaller quantities of these appliances compared to freestanding models, which can result in higher costs.
In recent years manufacturers have made significant strides in raising insulation standards and using high-efficiency compressors. This has helped to reduce the energy consumption of fridge freezers, which can in turn lower the cost of your energy bills.
When you're choosing an integrated fridge freezer, look at the kWh figures on the labels for energy to see how much your appliance will consume per year. This is more important than the A-G classification which was previously shown on these labels since it provides a precise image of how much your fridge freezer will cost to operate.
If you're looking for a particularly efficient model, you can also find out how quiet your appliance is by examining the decibel levels on the energy label. It is always advisable to choose one with the lowest decibel levels since it will make your kitchen quieter and can be an advantage for those who live in a flat or house where you'll be sharing your space with neighbors.
Another way to cut your bills down is by making sure your integrated fridge freezer has been installed properly. Many problems with fridge freezers (both integrated and freestanding) result from improper installation or ventilation, which could lead to het build-up and overuse of the motor or even breakdowns. To avoid this, always adhere to the manufacturer's recommendations for installing and ensuring your fridge freezer is vented correctly.
Storage
When replacing an old fridge freezer or constructing a brand new kitchen, integrated fridge-freezers offer a sleek, fashionable finish. They are hidden behind cabinet doors and blend with the decor of your space. This is great if you're all about kitchen uniformity and love that clean, cohesive appearance.
You can pick from a variety of sizes to meet the needs of your family. Some are "bottom-mounted" in which the freezer is placed below the refrigerator. Some are top mounted, meaning the freezer is above or below the fridge. Both have pros and cons.
Top-mounted models usually have more freezer space than bottom-mounted models, so are ideal if you're looking for extra freezing capacity. They can also help reduce energy bills, since the cold air circulates more evenly than with bottom-mounted models. Bottom-mounted models are typically less expensive and can make a good choice if you're budget is tight.
If you decide to go with an integrated fridge freezer, you'll also need to determine the capacity you'd like in each compartment. The fridge compartment will need to be able to accommodate your daily food shopping, including fresh produce and batch-cooked meals. You'll need to have an ice-cream maker and plenty of shelves for perishables.
The latest integrated fridge freezers come with advanced features that help keep food fresher longer, which reduces the amount of time required to perform manual maintenance. For instance, a lot are equipped with antibacterial linings that reduce the smell and stop mould. Some models have super freeze and fast chill settings that decrease the temperature quickly to ensure that your frozen food is at a safe temperature.
You can also find integrated refrigerator freezers that use frost-free technology to reduce defrosting. This helps keep your appliance at the same temperature and reduces defrosting. built in fridge freezer are great if you hate the hassle and mess of defrosting your freestanding freezer or refrigerator but don't want sacrifice capacity.