Filling up your love nest is an exciting journey all newlywed couples experience. There is joy in discovering the important things and factors that will make your house a home. Now that you are starting to carefully figure out what you want in terms of design and necessities, check out this checklist that can help you figure out the basics of custom-fit appliances
Free Standing vs. Built-in
Let’s start with defining these two main types of appliances. Generally speaking, freestanding appliances are more affordable than their built-in counterparts. These models are easy to install and can be placed anywhere you want. You can also relocate them wherever you please or bring them into the store for repair because they are designed to be moved around.
Built-in appliances, on the other hand, are a little more expensive because they require the help of a technician during installation. These appliances are normally screwed in or permanently placed in the kitchen, walls, and cabinetry. This method of placing appliances often provides a sleek and integrated look in your home. Built-in appliances also prove to last longer than the freestanding ones.
Refrigerator
The refrigerator is easily one of the most important appliances every household should invest in. Built-in refrigerators usually are 84 inches tall, with a 24-inch cabinet depth that ensures that the unit is fitted with the surrounding cabinets. They can either be panel-ready and covered by custom cabinet panels or stainless steel.
Compared to the freestanding ones, built-in cabinets usually have the compressor on the top rather than at the bottom. The three main types of built-in refrigerators are:
- Traditional. Usually either side-by-side or bottom-freezer design. The motor is at the top while the door and handles protrude by 1 to 2 inches from the cabinetry. This style is perfect if you are looking for easy access to top shelves. It is also considered large, with a typical width of 42 inches to 48 inches. It gives a strong industrial look.
- Integrated. If you are looking for a more luxurious look, then an integrated refrigerator is the best choice for you. These units are made from custom stainless steel and come in a variety of sizes. Some of the most common styles of the integrated refrigerator are columns, french-door, side by side, and bottom freezer.
- Column. Column refrigerators allow you the freedom to customize your kitchen. You can custom design the amount of space that you need for wine storage, frozen food, and fresh produce.
Cooktop and Wall Oven
Built-in wall ovens and cooktops give your kitchen a modern and stylish look. You can also freely choose where to place them because they can be installed independently. When opting for this, you have to make sure that you have enough cabinet space where they can fit.
Wall ovens are also easier to access than freestanding ranges because the former are installed at eye level, where you do not need to crouch or bend. The most common design of the wall oven is the pull-down. But since gaining popularity, other designs have become available, such ass the double-side opening swing door and the side-opening swing door.
A majority of wall ovens and cooktops run on electricity. They also have a sleek, easy-to-see electrical panel. Installation usually requires a professional because gas or electric wall ovens require hard-wiring.
Dishwasher
Another vital appliance your home should have is a dishwasher. It does not only make washing dishes a bearable task, but it also saves you a lot of time when cleaning up. Built-in dishwashers usually are 24 inches wide and can hold up to 14 standard place settings. They are installed directly beneath the countertop.
Compared to freestanding units, built-in ones also boast unique features such as a specialized wash cycle for hard-to-clean items and multiple spray arms. This is a good investment, especially for those who want to wash many dishes in just one load.
Washer and Dryer
For many homeowners, the basement is the best place to put their built-in washer and dryer. Although you always have the option to place it on the first or second floor, be reminded that this appliance gives out vibration and noise. It also needs a motion-arresting pad and extra insulation. The leak can also severely damage hardwood floors.
Washer and dryers can be placed on top of each other or side by side. Whichever area you want to place them in, make sure that they are placed in front of utility hookups and have access to proper ventilation if ever you need to do a routine dryer vent cleaning. A washer and dryer combo should also have 24 to 30 inches wall allowance and 36 to 40 inches above standard height.
These are just some of the most basic yet essential appliances that you will need in your home. You can either get them in one go or slowly invest in them one by one. Remember that efficient functionality and high quality are the benchmarks to follow when choosing the best for you.
