There are some disadvantages of an integrated fridge. An integrated fridge is a refrigerator that is outfitted to match the cabinets and cupboards in the kitchen. Rather than a smooth plastic or metal surface, most integrated refrigerators have wooden doors that make them nearly indistinguishable from the other storage areas in the kitchen, although some people will choose to integrate by giving the cupboards and drawers a metallic finish instead. Many people find this look more attractive than the conventional fridge, but there are some downsides of this choice.
Wood is not an optimal insulating material for keeping the inside of a refrigerator cold. Due to this fact, more conventional materials, such as plastic, rubber, and metal, must be used to create the base of the appliance in order to maintain interior temperature. The wooden doors are used as an attractive overlay. This double layer means that there is less space inside the fridge itself. This can be a major inconvenience for people with large families, or who simply use a great deal of their current refrigerator space. The difference may be as much as two to one. Larger integrated fridges are available, but they will take up more space than a conventional fridge of the same interior size. If space in your kitchen is extremely limited, especially if you need a large amount of room inside your refrigerator, these appliances may not be the best choice.
Integrated refrigerators are also considerably more expensive. More time and materials are needed in production, which drives up the cost. In addition, if the fridge is being matched to existing décor, there is a degree of artistry necessary to find the perfect match. The initial installation can be more difficult as well, since it must be fitted with existing cupboards rather than simply being set up in an empty space. These are not appliances for those on a small budget. However, if you have a good amount of funds for remodeling your kitchen, an integrated fridge may still be a viable option.
An integrated refrigerator may also cause some difficulties when guests visit a home. Since it blends perfectly with the rest of the cabinetry, visitors may have a hard time finding the refrigerator and may have to go through several drawers and cabinets in order to find it. Potential buyers may have similar difficulties when it comes time to sell the home. If the owner is not home in order to explain the design, these buyers may conclude that there is no refrigerator and no obvious place available to set one up.
The integrated fridge can be an attractive option, but it is important to consider the downsides as well before making any choices.