Built-in fridge-freezers have just as much functionality as the freestanding models with voice control, precise humidity and temperature control as standard – Sally Smith explores the latest innovations on offer.
When it comes to choosing a built-in fridge-freezer, smart technology that opens doors automatically and sophisticated temperature control to preserve food for longer and ultimately reduce waste are what consumers are looking for.
"The refrigeration, chilling and freezing market has seen significant advancements and innovations aimed at improving energy efficiency, enhancing user convenience and providing more precise temperature control. As these technologies continue to evolve, consumers can expect even more advanced and sustainable refrigeration solutions in the near future. One of the key features of our fridge-freezer is its ‘Adaptive Temperature Control’, which automatically lowers the temperature prior to periods of frequent use, keeping food not only fresh for 20% longer but also helping consumers save energy," explains Jessica Rhodes, product & marketing manager at Asko.
Built-in refrigeration should always be discussed in the initial stages of the kitchen design with customers, she adds. "Determining how a client may use their kitchen and fridge-freezer is imperative. Larger families may require a larger unit with more storage flexibility. It’s also important to consider future needs that may affect usage of appliances, such as growing families," says Rhodes.
Tim Hutchinson, divisional manager at Liebherr UK, has definitely seen a shift in expectations of customers when it comes to refrigeration choices. "Consumers are always seeking greater convenience in the kitchen, expecting appliances to work harder and smarter," he says. "We've responded to these trends with features such as ‘AutoDoor’ technology, which allows users to open their fridge with a knocking signal or voice command, and ‘SmartDevice’, which enables remote control of refrigeration from a smartphone."
However, reducing food waste is still a key concern for consumers looking to preserve their fresh food for longer whilst retaining the taste and nutrients.
"The ideal humidity and temperature is the key to lengthening food shelf life by protecting nutritional content – our ‘BioFresh’ technology creates the ideal environment of low humidity and a temperature of just above freezing to significantly reduce the activity of microorganisms within the food. Complemented by ‘HydroBreeze’ technology that produces a fine, cold mist that is activated every 90 minutes for 4 seconds that in effect covers fruit and vegetables with a protective coating, ensuring crisp freshness and improved structure," says Hutchinson.
"Style and design has always been a key driver for Smeg due to the nature and heritage of the brand," says Matthew James, Smeg product manager, but he admits consumers are still discovering the advantages to certain newer features so it’s vital that showrooms can easily demonstrate the USPs to customers.
"We have POS stickers that highlight our ‘Natural Blue Light’ feature that is in a select range of our FQ models. Emphasising this excellent benefit that enhances the nutritional value of food we think will help encourage sales. And with various colours and aesthetics available, allowing for flexible kitchen design means models can easily be incorporated into 3D designs via the likes of Winner Design and ArtiCAD," says James.
It seems that more and more brands are extending their built-in refrigeration ranges to include hands-free operation and smart home integration to meet consumer expectations.
Andy Cummings, Bora head of UK sales, agrees. "Features like Wi-Fi connectivity, touchscreens, and adjustable shelving are popular alongside other requirements such as eco-friendly options and larger capacities for storing more food. We have created sleek modern interiors in our latest fridge freezer that includes a wooden board that can be used on both sides. We understand the importance of the design details to consumers who are using the kitchen, and the appliances within it, to entertain."
Consumers are now familiar with voice-controlled appliances in the kitchen environment and the latest built-in refrigeration models now offer this convenient functionality via branded apps.
Built-in fridge-freezer units have lacked the variety of features and sizes available in freestanding models but this is changing with the introduction of larger and taller built-in refrigeration.
"The increased height of these fridges is a real advantage," says Caner Durran, head of business unit, cooling, at BSH Home Appliances. "Many people tend to leave the space above their fridge unused or simply use it as storage. These larger refrigerators, often labelled as XL and XXL, are not only taller but also wider than standard models. XL models typically offer additional height, while XXL models combine extra height with increased width."
