Estate Living Digital Publication Issue 8 August 2015 | Page 56

DESIGN & DECOR

52

TYPES OF INTEGRATED APPLIANCES
Integrated refrigeration is available in a variety of
shapes and sizes to suit the needs of every family and
kitchen. Integrated frost-free freezers substantially
reduce the risk of water damage to the cupboard unit
and separate fridge and freezer units can be combined
for a side-by-side configuration. Reverse doors on
these appliances are especially beneficial as it means
that, regardless of combination, doors will open from
the centre in opposite directions.It is recommended
not to install an integrated fridge or freezer right next
to another heat-generating appliance such as an oven,
as heat can build up inside the cabinet proving grave
for the compressor as well as the carcass. A sheet of
asbestos is commonly used as insulation between the
carcasses of the two appliances if need be.

restricted surface area, but the doors on the laundry
products are also reversible to ensure ergonomic
installation.An integrated dishwasher probably offers
the most design options and has the added benefit
of minimal noise. There are fully integrated models
(where you can’t see the unit at all), semi-integrated
(where the control panel is visible) and deco door
models (where the unit is fitted with a decorative
door that will act as a feature in the kitchen). Different
configurations are also available with small half-sized
units and units that pull out like a drawer.

An integrated unit will come with the necessary
hardware to attach the cupboard door to the
appliance and the placement in its cupboard casing
must be carefully considered. If not positioned
correctly, the doors might not seal properly and this
can add further pressure on the compressor and
thermostats in appliances like a fridge, causing it to
ice up, and, in a dishwasher, it can lead to leaking and
water damage..

CONTACT
Gauteng
011 781 5340
[e-mail]

KwaZulu Natal
082 801 8878
[e-mail]

Without adequate ventilation, the appliance and
cabinet can overheat, causing damage. Some
integrated appliances are supplied with venting grids
that have to be installed in the kick plate area – they
must be used and should never be covered. The
cabinet should vent back out the kit