Your modern-day food preservation approach is incomplete without proper refrigeration. All that incredible refrigerator wants is the right temperature to keep the food items cold and safe. That further slows down bacterial growth, boosting the freshness.
But have you ever imagined the consequences of inaccurate refrigerator temperature? Bacterial multiplication would eventually start spoiling food quality. Hence, it’s time to set the temperature right for your refrigerator and freezer.
Cooling Check: What Temperature Should a Fridge Be?
According to the FDA’s recommendations, the temperature of your refrigerator should not exceed 40 °F. Likewise, the freezer temperature should remain within 0°F. But what about the ideal temperature of your refrigerator? It has to be lower, specifically within the 35° to 38°F.
Exceeding the refrigerator temperature beyond the 35 or 38°F mark is quite high, especially with an inaccurate built-in temperature gauge. That could lead to the rapid spoiling of food, inviting various digestive issues.
Cooler than Cool: Setting the Ideal Temperature for Freezer
Staying near the 0°F mark is the best approach for freezer temperature. However, an exception arises when putting in more warm food. A few freezers also come with an advanced “flash freeze” option. This mode allows the freezer’s temperature to drop for a day to prevent the risk of freezer burn.
Although you can make temp changes manually, remember to reset the temp later. Note that excessively cold temperature only increases your utility bill and cause flavor and moisture loss.
Temp Check 101: Getting Your Freezer and Refrigerator Temp Right
As we have mentioned earlier, several temp gauges are inaccurate. For instance, the temp set to 37°F would imply 33°F or some other reading. The problem intensifies with a few refrigerators failing to show the temperature displays.
A simple solution is to buy a reliable appliance thermometer (freestanding) and place it in the freezer or refrigerator. Check the reading after 20 minutes. Can the reading get closer to the ideal freezer or refrigerator temperature? Make adjustments, if necessary, using the temperature control panel.
Cool Moves: Simple Steps You Can Follow for That Perfect Chill
If your refrigerator fails to come closer to the cool mode, here are some effective steps you can take.
Focus on the Door Seals- The cold air escape usually occurs because of a leak in any of the refrigerator’s gaskets. And that leads to the refrigerator’s cooling complications.
Cool First, Store Later– You don’t want those hot soup bowls or other dishes to warm up the fridge’s space. That sends an open invitation to bacterial growth. A safe approach is to cool the food down before putting it inside.
Being Happy with a Full Fridge– Keeping the fridge’s drawers and shelves almost full retains the cold temperature for longer hours. However, avoid overcrowding and compromising on airflow.
Do Not Open Your Fridge Excessively– Excessive opening of the refrigerator door lets in warm air and leads to the escape of cold air. The solution is to avoid keeping the door open and wondering what to take from the fridge. Instead, be quick with your choice.
Should You Go for a Refrigerator Repair or Replacement?
If a faulty gasket is the reason behind improper fridge temp, a quick refrigerator repair service would help. However, extensive damage indicates the need for a new appliance.
We hope you found the solution to obtain the ideal freezer and refrigerator temperature. Feel free to communicate with the professionals for further assistance.
