Undercounter Fridge Freezer Side by Side For Busy Commercial Kitchens
Undercounter dual temperature fridge freezers that can be used side by side are an ideal solution for commercial kitchens. There are many styles to choose from such as framed glass or stainless steel swing doors as well as panels ready models.
Undercounter refrigerators can be installed under counters and in between cabinets to keep food, beverages or food preparation ingredients close at hand. Check the size requirements for countertop clearance, especially if the refrigerator is rear or side-breathing.
Capacity
Side by side undercounter fridge freezer models provide plenty of space in a compact space. They can be used to store a wide range of food items that are ready to cook. Many dual-temp units feature a frozen section to store food items that need to remain cold. They are perfect for busy kitchens or restaurants with limited space.
The dimensions of your kitchen and its location will determine the kind of model you require. For instance, if host guests at the bar in your home, a dual-zone wine cooler might be the best option. For larger families, you might like the extra storage space provided by an undercounter refrigerator drawer.
Keep in mind that undercounter refrigerators may be limited due to ventilation requirements. side by side fridge freezers must be placed at least 6 inches from the back of your counter or other cabinet to allow proper air circulation. Some units have side or rear vents that can't be placed against the wall, while others are front-breathing and have less limitations on where they can be placed.
Some models are designed to fit in a countertop flush and have a sleek design that resembles a 24 inch base cabinet. This gives you an integrated look and you can also add handles or drawer fronts that you design to match your décor. These cabinets are ADA-compliant, and many have panel-ready designs, which let you customize the door openings according to your needs.
Convenience
Apart from giving a stylish style that will complement any kitchen, undercounter refrigerators freezer side by side refrigerators give the convenience of quick access and storage. They are particularly useful in small kitchens to store food items, or as a second refrigerator for grilling outdoors and rooms. These dual temperature undercounter refrigerators can also be placed in cellars, bars and garages to keep condiments, drinks and party trays ready to use.
These compact refrigerators are available in a variety of sizes, so you can pick the best one for your office or home. Some models come with built-in water dispensers and ice makers.
While the sleek design of a refrigerator that is side-by-side is ideal for those who wish to conserve space, it can limit the capacity of refrigerated space you have. The freezer side is smaller than the fridge, so when you have large trays or packages or leftovers, they'll not fit. This could be a deal breaker for those planning on using these fridges as the primary refrigerator in the kitchen or for those living in smaller apartments and homes. If this is a concern for you, then think about a different undercounter fridge-freezer design.
Energy efficiency
Side-by-side refrigerators typically have an economical design compared to French door models. They are certified by ENERGY STAR and are more energy-efficient than refrigerators with top and bottom freezers. You should look for refrigerators that have an "kWh rating" on the energy label. This will inform you the amount of electricity they use per year.
Side-by side fridges typically come with adjustable shelves and door bins that allow for a variety of storage. Some refrigerators have butter or deli drawers as well as one or two produce drawers. Many come with an icemaker that can produce both crushed and cubed ice. Certain ice makers feature advanced features, for instance, slow-melting ice balls that can be added to drinks that would otherwise be diluted as they are made from traditional cubes.
There are side-by-side refrigerators available in a variety of finishes and styles including stainless steel and black. The sleekest models are fingerprint and smudge resistant, making them easier to clean.
When shopping for a side-by-side freezer for your fridge, think about the amount of food you usually keep in each compartment and what kind of food you prefer to buy, and how often you'll open the door. This will help you pick the most suitable option for your family. Quincy Bulin is a writer covering homes and products. He helped create this article by researching refrigerators based on size, price, capacity along with color/finish, and certifications.
Design
These commercial refrigerator-freezer combination units are popular because they can be installed underneath counters. They are a great choice for companies that don't have enough space to install upright freezers of the size of full-sized freezers or refrigerators however, they still need storage space for the ingredients that are ready to cook or prep. They're typically available in two or three-section models and each section has an additional refrigerated and frozen compartment.
The front doors on these units could be either glass or stainless steel giving them the appearance like a regular refrigerator. Some models are panel-ready which means they can accept the door panels of your choice to match other cabinets in the home. Drawers are another option, with some having drawers that provide freezer and fresh storage and others offering just one drawer of each type.
If you intend to use the under counter fridge and freezer side by side for food preparation, be sure that it's certified as such. You might end up with a surface that is scratched, damaged or may be a home for bacteria.
Other options for refrigerator or freezer storage in commercial kitchens include walk-in refrigerators and reach-in freezers, merchandising refrigerators and freezers along with worktop refrigerators and freezers. Burkett provides a variety sizes for each of these refrigeration units, so you can find the ideal size for your company or restaurant.