How to select integrated fridge freezers

Integrated fridge freezers are appliances which blend in with the cabinetry around them. In many modern houses where a refrigerator can be seen as part of a great room, an integrated fridge has become a great fashion statement to help the kitchen look more like a living area. Integrated fridges are expensive, however, so you need to be careful when making your selection.

Fully integrated or partially integrated

Typically, integrated fridge and freezers are covered with a decorative panel which either matches your cabinets or coordinates with your decor. This makes the fridge blend in, rather than stand out, and allows you an alternative to stainless steel, white or black fridges. Fully integrated fridge freezer When you buy fridge products which are integrated, the first choice you need to make is whether the fridge is to be partially integrated or fully integrated. A fully integrated fridge means that the vents and compressors can be covered and that there are no gaps at all between your fridge and your cabinets. It also means that there is no ice maker or water in the door. The fridge is truly indistinguishable from other cabinets and there is no indication that it is there. Partially integrated fridge freezer A partially integrated fridge has a panel which is over it to make it match your cabinets. However, it is not fully integrated and it still looks like a fridge. It may have a separate top or bottom vent which cannot be covered or which requires a gap for clearance, making the fridge stand separate from the cabinets. It may also have an ice or a water dispenser, which prevents it from truly blending in.

Other features

The other consideration when buying integrated refrigerators is what features the fridge will have as far as cooling your food. Integrated fridges are not cheap refrigerators and they are made by some of the top names in appliances, like Bosch Fridges or Subzero fridges. This means that the fridges usually have some good features.
Separate compressors A big one to look for is separate compressors in the fridge and the freezer, which means that they do not recirculate air between them. This helps to keep all food fresher. If you buy a Bosch integrated fridge or other higher end appliance, there's a good chance that you will have the option of separate compressors or even of entirely separate units altogether (i.e. a fridge and a freezer which are not connected at all). The final thing to think about is whether you want ice or water somewhere or not. Some fully integrated fridges will offer internal ice or water to give you the functionality without affecting the integrated look.