How to Maintain a Built in Fridge Freezer
Built in fridge freezers integrate seamlessly into your kitchen cabinets, giving them a streamlined look that enhances the look of your kitchen. They can also be tailored to match your cabinetry's dimensions for an ideal fit.
They can also include smart features and specialized storage options for dairy and wine. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help ensure your built in fridge freezer functions properly for many years to come.
Size and Capacity
Built-in fridge freezers blend seamlessly into your cabinetry, and offer plenty of storage. builtin fridge freezer are available in various sizes and capacities, allowing you to choose the best one for your needs. Select a refrigerator that is energy efficient to reduce your electricity costs and impact on the environment.
The size of your household and kitchen will determine the type of refrigerator you require. For instance, a family of four needs between 4-6 cubic feet of refrigerator space while larger households require more than this amount. It is also important to consider whether you'd like a separate freezer or not, as this will impact your storage options overall and cost.
After you've determined your kitchen's dimensions and capacity requirements, it's now time to evaluate your budget against the available fridge options. You might have to cut back on features or buy a cheaper model to fit your needs. In addition, it's crucial to take into account the installation costs as well as the energy consumption of your appliance.
Pick a refrigerator that is in line with your kitchen's design and style. It can be a stainless steel panel-ready refrigerator or an elegant, contemporary glass door. You'll have to decide if you'd like an extended refrigerator door beyond the cabinets, or flush mount options.
Take measurements of the width of your kitchen before purchasing a fridge to make sure it fits. Be aware that some models need additional space behind the refrigerator to accommodate the water line and ventilation. Make sure you ensure proper alignment and fastening of the refrigerator and any plumbing or electrical connection.
Think about the features you'd like. For example, a digital or smart display, ice and/or water dispensers and more. Certain models have compartments to can help you organize food groups, such as meats, vegetables, fruits, and grains. Select a refrigerator with precise temperatures to ensure the freshness and quality of your foods. Choose a model that is simple to clean and comes with an assurance.
Custom Panel Options
A fridge freezer that is built-in can be designed to blend seamlessly with kitchen cabinetry to create a seamless appearance. This option is popular with homeowners who wish to enhance the appearance of their kitchen. Along with the slimmer appearance, this type of refrigerator is generally more energy-efficient than traditional freestanding refrigerators. For more insight on the various options for customization check out our article on built in refrigerator cabinets.
Panel-ready built-in refrigerators are built to accept custom panels, which can be integrated into your kitchen cabinets for seamless design. This feature is particularly useful in the case of cabinets you already have that you'd like to incorporate into your kitchen design. Other luxury features are available on custom panel refrigerators to increase the functionality and beauty of your kitchen.
Choosing the appropriate door style is another important aspect to consider when buying an integrated refrigerator freezer. Most models offer several different doors, including French doors and side-byside. Certain manufacturers, like Sub-Zero, offer customizable handles that can be matched with your kitchen's cabinet hardware for a seamless look.
It's important, in addition to aesthetics, to choose the right model for your family. For instance, if you frequently host guests, you may need more storage space for snacks and drinks. You may also wish to consider a unit with a separate ice maker, which can reduce the amount of time you spend emptying and refilling tray.
When choosing refrigerators, you must be aware of the noise level. Certain models are designed to operate quietly, which can be a great benefit in open-plan kitchens or close to living spaces. Some models are louder than others, and can disrupt the peace and quiet of your home.
It is also important to select a model that has the correct temperature control. The ideal refrigerator will keep a constant and precise temperature throughout its interior, which can ensure the quality of your food and reduce the energy use. It is recommended to select a model with an Energy Star rating. This can help you reduce your expenses for energy.
Design Considerations
When choosing a built-in fridge freezer, take into consideration how it will be integrated into the kitchen design. A poorly-fitting kitchen appliance could ruin the aesthetic balance and a properly-matched appliance improves the look of your kitchen and creates a cohesive design. It's therefore important to choose a model that's designed to match the cabinetry you have. Custom-designed panels are available that hide the appliance behind a façade to match the décor of your kitchen.
In addition to custom panels, some models offer a range of colors and material finishes to match the style and design of your home. Some models even come with stainless steel to give a sleek, sophisticated finish. Certain models come with features to improve efficiency and preserve food items. For example certain refrigerators have an instant freeze feature that lowers the temperature quickly to avoid spoilage and prolong freshness. Some refrigerators have an integrated ice maker, which eliminates the need for ice tray clutter.
Other aspects to bear in mind when choosing the built-in fridge freezer are its installation complexity and energy efficiency. A fully integrated fridge is designed to be integrated seamlessly with cabinets. This will give you a clean and uniform look in your home. It requires more precise measurement and a professional install, which can increase the cost.
You could consider a semi-integrated fridge as an affordable option. These models blend in with your kitchen's cabinetry, providing a seamless appearance without the expense of a professionally-installed unit. They do, however, typically have a control panel visible which can alter the seamless appearance and limit customization options.
For optimal performance Both built-in and column fridge freezers need regular maintenance. Be sure to check for leaks regularly and clean the inside to reduce moisture levels and prevent food contamination. Make sure you stack your items properly and keep the shelves clear to allow air to flow freely. Consider purchasing a model with energy monitoring features. This will allow you to monitor and reduce your electricity consumption. If you follow these steps, you can be assured of a long-lasting and effective built in fridge freezer that will meet your storage requirements.
Maintenance
A fridge freezer with a built-in freezer is a device that can be used for many purposes and also blend seamlessly into the design of your kitchen. It requires regular maintenance, like any other kitchen appliances, to ensure that it is operating efficiently. Keep your fridge freezer in good shape by following these expert tips offered by Kitchen Stories.
Be careful not to overflow your refrigerator with food or drinks. This will make it work harder. Keep your items in a manner that allows air circulation and you may want to arrange your food by type so they can cool faster. Keep your refrigerator away from direct sources of heat, like an electric oven or fireplace. This could cause the refrigerator to overheat and affect its performance.
Clean the drip pan frequently to prevent the accumulation of food debris or ice. Most fridges contain a drip pan at the bottom of the freezer and it is easy to remove it and wipe it clean. Examine the rubber seals on the door of your refrigerator for any wear or cracks, as these can leak cold air and lead to higher energy usage. Seals that aren't sealed allow warm air in and spoil your food. To test the seal of your refrigerator close the door with the back of a dollar bill or a piece of paper. Seals that can be easily removed need to be replaced.
To keep dust from accumulating, vacuum or brush your condenser coils in your refrigerator every year to prevent it from overheating and reducing its efficiency. This area can be accessed through the back of your refrigerator by taking off the grille or panel. You can utilize an attachment for a vacuum cleaner or special coil brush to get the job done.
If you hear unusual noises coming from your fridge it could be an indication that the motor is operating at a high rate to cool the contents. This could be a sign of an overheated or defective compressor or thermostat. If you're unable to identify the issue, call a fridge repair service to fix it. Before attempting any DIY repairs, consult your owner's manual for troubleshooting instructions and specific to your model.