Looking at pictures from fashion magazines, almost all "kitchen" pictures lack refrigerators. Where are they? Are Europeans so rich that they eat exclusively in cafes and neglect food at home? No, there are enough home cooks in Europe, they just chose built-in models.
Pros and cons of a built-in refrigerator
Buying a built-in refrigerator in the kitchen is included in the plans of those who have decided on a thorough study of the design and interior of the kitchen. Many have a negative attitude towards a free-standing refrigerator, which destroys harmony and matched colors.
Interestingly, built-in models can be installed not only in kitchen sets, but also in car interiors and office cabinets.
Among the advantages of the products, I would like to highlight the following:
- They consume significantly less electricity due to additional thermal insulation (the body of the kitchen cabinet, etc.);
- They work almost silently;
- The main advantage of the refrigerator is stealth. An outsider is unlikely to guess where the refrigerator is located in the kitchen.
In total, the built-in refrigerator has two disadvantages:
- The volume of the embedded model is much smaller than the analogue solo;
- The high cost of products is more repulsive than attractive.
See also - No-frost or drip refrigerator - which is better?
Specialist recommendations for choosing refrigerators
What are the main criteria when choosing a refrigerator? That's right - conveniently located shelves and storage compartments. The height of the product should be taken into account - the owner in the kitchen should not stand on his toes or on a stool to reach the desired product. Affordable, comfortable, everything is at hand - these are three whales on the basis of which you should choose a model.
According to experts, the height of the built-in refrigerator should not exceed 2 meters. The recommended parameter is 1.5 meters. If the refrigerator is found to be lower, it is recommended to install it on a base.
Installation - the secrets of installation work
The most important parameter for installation is electrical safety. In order for the installation of the refrigerating chamber to go smoothly, without a hitch, there are many aspects and rules to be studied that will help to carry out the procedure in the correct sequence. Each individual model is accompanied by an instruction-passport, which indicates all the recommendations and requirements of the manufacturer.
Installing a refrigerator is not an easy task. It is essential that the condenser and compressor are positioned in such a way that fresh air can flow freely.
Important:
Each individual model has its own characteristics, installation nuances and requirements. Don't follow the general rules.
When installing the product yourself, you need to pay special attention to the upper gap (above the refrigerator) for the intake of clean air. The gap must be at least 5 cm.
In general, it is not recommended to engage in amateur performances. Built-in appliances should be installed by qualified specialists who know all the nuances of work and give a guarantee for their services.
Any inaccuracy made during the installation of the refrigerating chamber can lead to fatal consequences (namely, product breakdown). To avoid unnecessary costs for repairs or the purchase of a new product, entrust the work to professionals.
Design is a repulsive feature of an attractive home appliance
Despite its high cost, the built-in refrigerator on the store counter has a modest and unattractive appearance. They do not have a special lacquer or chrome finish. The product will acquire a finished look only after it is installed in the cabinet and a decorative panel is attached to its facade. As for the panel itself, it all depends solely on the designer's imagination. It can be matched strictly in color with the headset, or it can stand out against the general background with its defiant coloring.
When choosing a new built-in refrigerator, it is recommended to pay attention to its characteristics, and not to its appearance.
Summarizing
Built-in refrigerators are the ideal solution for small kitchens. They will not only save space, but also make the room more attractive and comfortable. If you do not have the skills of an electrician, it is not recommended to install the product yourself. Having paid a modest (compared to the cost of a refrigerator) amount, you can order the services of professionals who will quickly and competently perform all the necessary work.
See also - Refrigerator seal: replacement or repair?
