Residential refrigerators are extremely durable, but they are not without flaws. Your high-quality appliance will degrade over time due to normal wear and tear.
Furthermore, the refrigerator may fail due to a lack of proper maintenance, improper use, or impact incidents. If the appliance no longer cools as expected or stops working entirely, you will need to replace it with a new fridge to ensure optimal food preservation and efficiency.
If you decide to replace your worn-out appliance, there are two main types to consider: built-in and freestanding.
Built-in refrigerators, as the name implies, are designed and manufactured to fit perfectly into the kitchen space.
For a seamless appearance, they are installed flush with kitchen elements such as counters and cabinets.
Freestanding refrigerators are the most common appliances sold in stores in bulk as readymade units.
Comparison of built-ins and freestanding Refrigerators
In an ideal world, every kitchen should have a built-in refrigerator because it blends in so well.
However, the price of this type of appliance can be prohibitively expensive for most people looking to replace their old refrigerator.
If you are unsure about the best replacement refrigerator for your home, evaluate the freestanding and built-in options and make an objective comparison.
Furthermore, a clear understanding of the advantages and disadvantages should assist you in determining whether a built-in refrigerator is worth the cost.
Freestanding Refrigerators
There are numerous advantages to purchasing a freestanding refrigerator for your home.
The most obvious advantage is the low cost.
You can select a model that fits your budget. The cost will vary depending on the size of the appliance, the installed features, and even the brand.
If you are on a tight budget, this option may be ideal because you can purchase a low-cost unit for around $500 or less.
Built-in refrigerators can cost up to ten times as much as a standalone refrigerator.
These refrigerators are also advantageous because they are available in a variety of configurations.
You can select the best option for your lifestyle. Freezer on top, bottom freezer, fridge and freezer side by side, and French door appliances are all popular options.
The freestanding appliance is also advantageous because it can be placed anywhere in the house as long as an outlet and space are available.
Furthermore, if you decide to move, you can easily transport your appliance.
Unfortunately, freestanding refrigerators are not ideal if you want to have a beautiful high-end design in your kitchen.
Furthermore, finding a suitable location for this type of appliance in your kitchen can be difficult. Your only option may be to relocate the unit to another room.
Furthermore, freestanding refrigerators are only available in a few sizes.
BUILT-IN REFRIGERATOR
A built-in refrigerator is the only way to go if you want to design a high-end kitchen. Instead of sticking out awkwardly, this type of appliance will blend in perfectly with your cabinetry.
You can also select panels that match your cabinets for a custom, sleek appearance.
Furthermore, built-in refrigerators are available in a wide range of sizes.
As a result, if your family requires a large refrigerator, built-in refrigerators are ideal.
The most significant disadvantage is the high purchase price.
The high price can be attributed to the refrigerator’s customization options.
In layman’s terms, the appliance will be custom-made for your home to meet your specific requirements, and it will be installed by an experienced technician.
A built-in fridge is ideal if you enjoy finer things.