Whether you’re planning a professionally-designed kitchen or simply replacing your refrigerator, it’s likely you’ve come across terms like integrated or built-in. But what does it mean when a refrigerator is defined by these terms, and how will each look in your kitchen? We’ll discuss the difference between Sub-Zero integrated and built-in refrigerators so you can make the best choice for your kitchen design.

Understanding the Difference Between Sub-Zero Integrated and Built-In Refrigerators

When choosing among any Sub-Zero refrigerator design, you’re committing to some of the best refrigeration technology in the industry, regardless of your choice. Consequently, the difference between Sub-Zero integrated and built-in refrigerators essentially comes down to appearance and how each will look in your kitchen.

What is a Sub-Zero Integrated Refrigerator?

When answering, “what is an integrated refrigerator?” it’s all about seamless design. An integrated refrigerator is not only built into cabinetry housing, but it’s completely flush with the cabinets and counter via an inset door. This enables the refrigerator to blend into the rest of the kitchen, specifically when the unit is paneled like the rest of the cabinetry. 

Integrated vs built-in refrigerators offer the utmost in sleek, modern design, to the point where the refrigerator is almost camouflaged. Not even the compressor vents are visible from the outside of integrated refrigerators. This allows for complete integration with your kitchen aesthetic and the utmost in versatility with your layout.

What is a Sub-Zero Built-In Refrigerator?

If both integrated and built-in refrigerators are built into a housing, what is a built-in refrigerator, and what makes it different? A built-in refrigerator does not sit flush with your cabinetry. Rather, it will protrude from the cabinet or counter by about 2 inches. Compared to a Sub-Zero freestanding refrigerator, a built-in takes up much less space. However, because it extends slightly from its housing, it will stand out as a more prominent feature in your kitchen.

Integrated vs Built-In Refrigerators

Both integrated and built-in refrigerators are professional-style units that come in a variety of widths to accommodate any size family or kitchen. These two Sub-Zero designs are stainless steel or panel-ready and both are available in side-by-side or French door models. Lastly, both offer the same high-quality refrigeration technology and professional, modern flair to your kitchen. 

However, despite these similarities, the main difference between Sub-Zero integrated and built-in refrigerators comes down to how they look. Here’s how the two designs differ in appearance:

Sub-Zero Integrated Refrigerator:

  • Sits completely flush within cabinet housing via an inset door
  • Compressor vents are not outwardly visible
  • Blends seamlessly into cabinet design for a camouflage appearance
  • Offers more custom design options and greater versatility in refrigerator placement with your floor plan

Sub-Zero Built-in Refrigerator:

  • Protrudes slightly from cabinet housing by about 2 inches
  • Compressor vents are visible from the outside
  • While blending with a kitchen’s design, can also stand out as a prominent feature

We hope this clarified the difference between Sub-Zero integrated and built-in refrigerators so you can make the best choice for your kitchen design. At Don Bacon Appliance, we’re proud to offer Sub-Zero Certified Service for every product in this high-quality brand. Contact our experts to address any questions or concerns.