Picture This: Your First Alfresco Pour
You’re standing ankle-deep in concrete dust, blueprints rolled up under one arm, and the late afternoon sun is bouncing off the steel beams of your soon-to-be dream patio. You can already hear the laughter of mates, the sizzle of the barbecue, and—most importantly—the crisp hiss of a cold beer being cracked open. But where’s that beer coming from? Not a tired old esky or a noisy, ugly fridge. You want a centrepiece: a fridge that fits flush, works quietly, and lights up your collection like a gallery. Enter the Schmick SK168-Combo.
The Architect’s View: Seamless Integration for Modern Spaces
The Schmick SK168-Combo is engineered for those who refuse to compromise. Its slim depth of 395mm is a game-changer for tight alfresco builds, sliding easily into bespoke cabinetry and narrow recesses where standard fridges simply won’t fit. For cabinetry, the front venting design is critical—this means all the heat exhausts forward, not out the back or sides, so you only need 20mm clearance at the rear, sides, and top. No ugly grill gaps, no wasted space.
Cutout Dimensions: - Height: 1820mm - Width: 1200mm - Depth: 395mm - Allow at least 20mm clearance on all sides for ventilation.
The fridge’s triple glazed glass doors are more than a visual statement—they’re a thermal barrier, keeping the internal temperature stable even when the sun’s blazing through your patio windows. The black finish and minimalist lines make it a natural fit for contemporary cabinetry, while 8 adjustable feet ensure a level install on any surface.
The Host’s Perspective: Performance Under Pressure
You’ve got 20 guests. It’s 40°C outside. The grill is working overtime, and so is your fridge. The SK168-Combo is built for these moments:
- Quiet Operation: At 43dB, it’s similar to a fan forced oven—quiet to moderate. You’ll hear the conversation, not the compressor.
- Rapid Recovery: The Embraco compressor delivers reliable cooling from 1°C to 18°C, so you can keep both beer and wine at their ideal temps—even with the doors opening and closing all night.
- Capacity: Holds 120 cans or 209 litres—enough for a full party’s worth of drinks, with flexible shelving for bottles, mixers, and platters.
- LED Lighting: Five dimmable colours (white, orange, red, blue, green) let you set the mood—subtle for a wine night, bold for the big game.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Model Code | SK168-Combo |
| Capacity (Litres) | 209 |
| Capacity (Cans) | 120 |
| Dimensions (H x W x D, mm) | 1820 x 1200 x 395 |
| Internal Dimensions (H x W x D) | 1575 x 515 x 255 |
| Weight (Net/Shipping, kg) | 188 / 250 |
| Door Type | Glass |
| Glass Type | Triple glazed |
| LED Lighting | 5 colours, dimmable |
| Compressor | Embraco |
| Noise Level | 43 dB (fan forced oven - quiet to moderate) |
| Energy Star Rating | 7 |
| Power Consumption (kWh/24h) | 4.624 |
| Yearly Running Cost (AUD) | 430.5 |
| Location Suitability | Indoor |
| Max Ambient Temp (°C) | 38 |
| Lockable | Yes |
| Adjustable Shelving | Yes (21 shelves, 27 positions) |
| Adjustable Feet | 8 |
| Certifications | MEPS, RCM |
| Custom Vinyl Wrap Available | Yes |
Maintenance & Longevity: Keeping It Legendary
A fridge like this is an investment in a decade of good times. Here’s how to keep it running flawlessly:
- Cleaning: Wipe the triple glazed glass doors with a soft cloth and mild detergent. Remove and clean shelves regularly.
- Condenser Care: Vacuum the front vent grill every few months to prevent dust buildup and keep airflow optimal.
- Seal Replacement: Inspect door seals annually. If you notice any wear or loss of suction, replace promptly to maintain efficiency.
- Lighting & Controls: The LED system is designed for longevity, but if a colour fades or a control becomes unresponsive, replacements are straightforward and available through our store.
Who Is This For? The Ideal Alfresco Scenario
- Urban entertainers: Short on depth, big on style. If your alfresco kitchen is squeezed between a wall and a sliding door, this fridge fits where others can’t.
- Home bar enthusiasts: Want to showcase both wine and beer, with flexible shelving and mood lighting for every occasion.
- Design purists: Need a flush, integrated look with minimal vent gaps and a premium black finish.
- Energy-conscious hosts: The 7-star rating and ECO inverter compressor keep running costs low.
Things to Consider: Honest Limitations
- Indoor Use Only: Rated for indoor locations. If your alfresco is fully exposed to the elements, consider a weatherproof alternative.
- Not Reversible: Doors are not reversible. Plan your cabinetry layout accordingly.
- No Heated Glass: While the triple glazed glass insulates well, it does not have a heated anti-condensation feature. In very humid conditions, some condensation may occur.
- Weight: At 188kg, installation is a two-person job.
The Verdict: Should You Choose the SK168-Combo?
If you’re after a slim depth beer and wine fridge that disappears into your cabinetry, runs quietly, keeps your drinks at the perfect temp, and lets you set the mood with a tap of a button, the Schmick SK168-Combo is the answer. Its technical pedigree and real-world performance make it a standout for serious home entertainers and design-driven renovations.
FAQ
Q: How does the triple glazed glass benefit my fridge? A: Triple glazed glass provides superior insulation, reducing temperature fluctuations and energy use—especially important in sunny, indoor environments.
Q: Can I install the SK168-Combo outdoors? A: No, it is rated for indoor use only. For exposed alfresco areas, seek a weatherproof model.
Q: How quiet is the SK168-Combo compared to a standard fridge? A: At 43dB, it’s similar to a fan forced oven—quiet to moderate. Most standard fridges are in the 40-50dB range.
