What is a Built-In Fridge
A built-in fridge is installed in an alcove on the wall or placed inside kitchen cabinets, making it a permanent addition to your kitchen. It blends well with adjoining counters and cupboards. These are generally shallow in depth to sit flush with the cabinets. They offer wider sizes to accommodate more food items.
Advantages of Built-In Fridge
Built-in fridges look seamless and modern. They have many advantages.
- They fit snugly wherever you place them. This means they can seamlessly blend with other kitchen cabinets.
- The fridge panels can be styled based on your kitchen's design.
- They help save more energy compared to freestanding fridges.
- They don't occupy any floor space since they are mounted onto the wall, making them beneficial for smaller kitchens.
Disadvantages of Built-In Fridge
- They tend to be a bigger investment due to their advanced features.
- There are added costs involved in installing a built-in fridge. This is because they need to be fitted properly within the recess.
- It is difficult to move or shift them elsewhere.
While built-in fridges offer a sleek look, consider these factors before making your decision.
What is a Freestanding Fridge
A standalone refrigerator can be placed anywhere in your kitchen. It’s finished on all sides and provides excellent storage. It’s available in different sizes and finishes offering flexibility in design. You can choose between French doors or drawer refrigerators for a more unique look.
Advantages of Freestanding Fridge
Freestanding fridges are a popular choice and easy to maintain. Their advantages are:
- They are affordable in comparison to built-in fridges.
- It does not require installation.
- They offer mobility since they can be plugged in anywhere. They are also flexible in the features they offer.
- These can fit in any space, from small apartments to large family kitchens.
Disadvantages of Freestanding Fridge
Freestanding fridges are easy to maintain but may not fulfill all your requirements.
- A freestanding fridge does not come panel ready. It might not blend with the cupboard or cabinet finishes in the kitchen since you cannot install custom panels.
- They take up more floor space depending on their dimensions. This can prove an obstacle in smaller kitchens.
- These come in a wide range of finishes but might be hard to customize.
- Does not offer a fully flush look as it juts out from the wall.
Key Features
Both the built-in and freestanding variations have multiple features, making them highly functional. Look out for these features when buying a refrigerator to make the most of your purchase.
- Air Filtration: This feature clears out odor and eliminates airborne contaminants.
- Electronic Temperature Control: It helps maintain the desired temperature to help your food stay fresh.
- ADA Compliance: It offers easy access and operation of controls.
- Child Safety Locks: This is a convenient feature to prevent children from getting their hands on unhealthy snacks or allergic items.
- Water Filtration: This feature uses a carbon filter to trap and eliminate pollutants and contaminants in water.
- Voice Control: This feature allows you to control the temperature of your fridge without lifting a finger.