Column Sets

Column sets are the ultimate choice for high-end, customizable kitchen refrigeration. These sets consist of separate refrigerator and freezer columns that can be installed side by side or in various configurations, giving you the flexibility to design your kitchen layout to suit your specific needs. This guide will provide detailed information about column sets, covering everything from installation options to advanced features and popular brands.

1. What Are Column Sets?

Column sets are refrigeration solutions that combine independent refrigerator columns and freezer columns into a cohesive system. Unlike traditional refrigerators, where both sections are integrated into one unit, column sets allow you to install the fridge and freezer independently or side by side, offering maximum flexibility and customization.

Key Characteristics:

• • Separate Units: Each column is dedicated to refrigeration or freezing, providing better temperature control and more specialized storage.
  • Customization: Columns can be combined based on your needs, allowing more fridge space, more freezer space, or balanced storage.
  • Modular Design: You can place the units side by side or in different parts of the kitchen for unique layout possibilities.

2. Installation Type

a. Freestanding Column Sets

• • • • • Freestanding column sets are not integrated into the kitchen cabinetry. These units have finished sides and can be placed anywhere, providing flexibility in kitchen layout. They do not require built-in installation, making them easier to install than built-in models.

b. Built-In Column Sets

• • • • • Built-in column sets are installed flush with the kitchen cabinetry, offering a sleek, integrated look. These models require custom cabinetry and are often panel-ready, allowing the fronts of the columns to match the surrounding kitchen design.
        • Panel-Ready: Custom panels can be attached to the columns for a seamless, built-in appearance. This option is popular in luxury kitchens for a fully integrated design.

c. Installation Depth

• • • • • Standard Depth: These models extend slightly beyond cabinetry but provide more storage capacity.
        • Counter Depth: Designed to sit flush with countertops for a streamlined, built-in look.

3. Size and Capacity

Column sets are available in various sizes to fit your kitchen layout and storage needs. Each column typically ranges from 18 to 36 inches in width, allowing for a flexible combination of refrigerator and freezer units.

Sizes

• • Width: Column widths generally come in 18, 24, 30, and 36 inches.
  • Height: Most columns are 84 inches tall, designed to align with standard cabinetry.

Capacity

• • Refrigerator Columns: Offer between 10 to 25 cubic feet of storage, depending on the size.
  • Freezer Columns: Provide 8 to 20 cubic feet of space, depending on the model.

Custom Combinations

• • You can choose to have a larger refrigerator and a smaller freezer, or vice versa, based on your household’s needs. For example, an 18-inch freezer column paired with a 30-inch refrigerator column provides a balance between fresh and frozen food storage.

4. Shelving and Storage Flexibility

Column sets offer some of the most advanced storage features, tailored to meet different household needs.

a. Adjustable Shelves

• • • • • Glass or wire shelves can be repositioned to fit larger items, such as tall bottles or wide trays, making the interior highly customizable.

b. Humidity-Controlled Crispers

• • • • • Helps keep fruits and vegetables fresh by maintaining ideal humidity levels. Many columns offer dual crispers to separate fruits and vegetables for optimal freshness.

c. Temperature-Controlled Drawers

• • • • • Deli or beverage drawers in some refrigerator columns allow for independent temperature control, ideal for storing items like cheese, meat, or drinks at their ideal temperatures.

d. Freezer Storage

• • • • • Pull-out drawers and sliding baskets in freezer columns make it easier to organize and access frozen goods. Some freezer columns also include soft-close drawers for added convenience.

5. Advanced Features

a. Dual Compressors

• • • • • Column sets often feature dual compressors, which means each column has its own independent cooling system. This prevents temperature fluctuations between the refrigerator and freezer and ensures that each section maintains its optimal temperature.

b. Air Purification Systems

• • • • • Some high-end column sets come with air purification technology, which helps remove odors and bacteria from the air inside the fridge, keeping your food fresher for longer.

c. Precise Temperature Control

• • • • • Digital displays allow for precise temperature adjustments. Some models allow different compartments to be set at varying temperatures for specialized storage needs.

d. Smart Features

• • • • • Wi-Fi connectivity enables you to control your refrigerator’s settings remotely. Features like internal cameras allow you to check the contents of your fridge from your smartphone, and many column sets are compatible with voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant.

6. Ice and Water Dispensers

a. Built-In Ice Makers

• • • • • Many freezer columns include built-in ice makers, providing a steady supply of ice without taking up too much space in the freezer compartment. Some models even feature dual ice makers for added convenience.

b. Water Dispensers

• • • • • While most refrigerator columns do not feature external water dispensers, many models come with an internal water dispenser for filtered water. This design maintains a clean, sleek exterior.

7. Energy Efficiency

a. ENERGY STAR® Certified

• • • • • Column sets that are ENERGY STAR® certified meet rigorous energy efficiency standards, helping to lower utility bills while reducing your environmental footprint.

b. LED Lighting

• • • • • LED lighting is standard in column sets, offering bright, even lighting throughout the interior. LEDs use less energy and last longer than traditional bulbs, enhancing energy efficiency while making it easier to find items inside the fridge or freezer.

8. Pros and Cons of Column Sets

Pros:

• • • • Customizable: Allows you to tailor your kitchen’s refrigeration system to your exact needs, with flexible combinations of refrigerator and freezer columns.
      • Seamless Design: Panel-ready models provide a high-end, luxury appearance that integrates perfectly with custom cabinetry.
      • Advanced Cooling: Dual compressors and air filtration systems ensure that food stays fresher for longer.
      • More Space: Larger than most traditional refrigerators, providing ample space for both fresh and frozen food.

Cons:

• • • • High Cost: Column sets are generally more expensive than traditional refrigerator-freezer combos.
      • Space Requirements: Requires more kitchen space, especially when pairing wider columns.
      • Complex Installation: Built-in models often require professional installation and custom cabinetry.

9. Popular Brands for Column Sets

• • Sub-Zero: Known for premium quality and innovative cooling technology, Sub-Zero offers some of the best column sets with dual compressors, advanced air purification, and customizable panel-ready designs.
  • Thermador: Offers a wide range of customizable columns with smart features like Wi-Fi connectivity, flexible shelving, and precise temperature control.
  • Viking: A professional-grade brand that delivers high-performance column sets with robust cooling technology and a sleek, modern look.
  • Miele: Miele’s column sets offer advanced features like smart connectivity, humidity-controlled drawers, and quiet operation, perfect for luxury kitchens.

Conclusion

Column sets offer unparalleled customization and luxury for homeowners looking to create a truly personalized kitchen. Whether you’re designing a modern kitchen with built-in panel-ready appliances or need a flexible, freestanding solution, column sets provide the flexibility to combine as much refrigerator or freezer space as you need. With advanced cooling systems, smart features, and customizable designs, column sets are the perfect choice for luxury kitchens or those with specific refrigeration needs.

Explore Homery.com to browse our wide selection of column sets from top brands like Sub-Zero, Thermador, Viking, and Miele. Visit our showroom or shop online today to discover the perfect combination for your kitchen layout!