Undercounter Fridge Freezer Side by Side For Busy Commercial Kitchens
Countertop dual temperature fridge freezers side by side provide a fantastic solution for commercial kitchens. Many styles are available, including framed glass or stainless steel swing doors as well panel-ready models.
The undercounter refrigerators are installed beneath counters and between cabinets to keep food, drinks or ingredients for meals in close proximity. Take note of the dimensions to ensure that the countertop is clear, particularly in the case of a fridge that is rear or side breathing.
Capacity
Side by side undercounter fridge freezer models offer a lot of space within a small space. They can be used to store a range of food items that are ready to cook. Many dual-temp units feature frozen sections to store foods that must stay cold. They are perfect for restaurants or busy kitchens with small space.
Your kitchen's size and location will determine which model you require. For instance, if your plan is to entertain guests in your bar at home, an ice-maker with dual zones could be the ideal solution. A refrigerator drawer beneath the counter can be an ideal choice for large families that require more storage space for food items.
Remember that ventilation requirements may restrict the size of refrigerators for undercounter use. Install them at least six inches away from the back of any cabinet or counter to allow for proper airflow. Some units have rear or side vents that can't be put against a wall, and others are front-breathing and have less limits on their location.
Some models are designed to sit flush under a counter with a sleek style which resembles a 24 inch base cabinet. This gives you a completely integrated look and allows you to add handles or drawer fronts that you design to match your décor. These cabinets are ADA compliant and some have panel-ready designs which let you customize the door openings based on your requirements.
Convenience
Alongside an elegant, high-end style that can be a perfect match for any kitchen, side-by-side refrigerator freezers underneath counters provide easy access and storage. They are especially helpful for kitchens with small spaces, where they can be used to store food items. They can also be used as a second refrigerator in outdoor grilling areas and areas. These dual temperature undercounter fridges are able to be put in garages, bars, cellars, and basements to store drinks, condiments and party trays.
These slim refrigerators come in various sizes, meaning you can pick the ideal one for your office or home. Some models come with built-in water dispensers and ice machines for additional convenience.
Although the slim design of a side-byside refrigerator may be ideal for those who wish to conserve space, it does compromise the capacity of refrigerated space you can use. The freezer side is smaller than the fridge, so when you have large packages, trays or leftovers, they will not fit. This could be a major issue for some people who are planning on using these fridges as a primary refrigerator for the kitchen or for those who live in smaller apartments and homes. If this is a concern for you, then consider a different design of fridge-freezer under counter.
Energy efficiency
Side-by side refrigerators are typically an economical design compared to French door models. They are also more energy efficient than top and bottom freezer refrigerators, and a few are energy STAR certified. Find refrigerators with an "kWh rating" on the energy label. This will tell you how much electricity they use every year.
Side-by side fridges typically come with shelves that can be adjusted and door bins that allow for a variety of storage. Some refrigerators come with a deli or butter drawer and a couple of produce drawers. Many come with two icemakers that produces crushed and cubed ice. Some ice makers have advanced features, like slow-melting ice balls that can be added to drinks that would otherwise be diluted when they are made of traditional cubes.
Side-by side refrigerators come with a wide range of door styles and finishes including stainless steel, black and white. The sleekest options are smudge-resistant and fingerprint-proof, which make them easier to clean.
Be aware of the amount of food you put in each section of your fridge, the type of food you purchase, and the frequency with which you open the door when looking for a side by side refrigerator freezer. This will help you decide the best option for your household. Quincy Bulin is a writer covering homes and appliances. He contributed to the creation of this article by researching refrigerators based on the size, cost and capacity as well as color/finish and certifications.
Design
Commercial refrigerator freezer combos are one of the most sought-after types of refrigeration as they fit underneath existing countertops. They are a great choice for companies who don't have room to install full-sized upright freezers or refrigerators but still require an area to store the ingredients that are ready to cook or prep. They're usually available in three or two sections, each having an additional refrigerated and frozen compartment.
The front doors on these units can be either glass or stainless steel that give them the look of a typical refrigerator. Some are panel ready which means they can be fitted with a custom door panel to match the style of the other cabinets in the kitchen. Drawers are another option with some featuring drawers that provide frozen and fresh storage while others have just one drawer of each kind.
If you are planning to utilize the refrigerator under counter and freezer side by side to prepare food, make sure it's rated as such. You could end with a countertop that is damaged, scratched 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, freezers as well as worktop refrigerators and freezers. Burkett offers a variety sizes for each of these refrigeration units, so you can find the perfect fit for your business or restaurant.