The ideal temperature for a refrigerator is between 35 and 38 degrees Fahrenheit. 42 degrees is too high and can spoil the food faster. If your refrigerator is running at 42 degrees, you should check the thermostat, the door seal, the coils, and the vents to find the cause of the problem and fix it as soon as possible.
In this article, we will explain why 42 degrees is not OK for a refrigerator, what are the risks of storing food at this temperature, how to measure the temperature of your refrigerator, and how to troubleshoot some common issues that can affect the cooling performance of your refrigerator.
The temperature of your refrigerator is important for keeping your food fresh and safe. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the refrigerator should be set at or below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, and the freezer should be set at 0 degrees Fahrenheit. These temperatures slow down the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms that can cause foodborne illnesses.
However, 42 degrees is above the recommended range and can increase the risk of food spoilage and contamination. At this temperature, bacteria can multiply rapidly and produce toxins that can make you sick. Some of the common symptoms of food poisoning include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, fever, and dehydration.
Some of the foods that are especially prone to spoilage and contamination at 42 degrees are meat, poultry, seafood, eggs, dairy products, cooked foods, cut fruits and vegetables, and leftovers. These foods should be stored at 40 degrees or below and consumed within a few days. If you notice any signs of spoilage, such as mold, slime, bad odor, or change in color or texture, you should discard the food immediately.
How to Measure the Temperature of Your Refrigerator
To ensure that your refrigerator is running at the optimal temperature, you should use a refrigerator thermometer to measure the temperature inside the appliance. A refrigerator thermometer is a device that can accurately measure the temperature of the air and the food in the refrigerator. You can find one at most grocery stores, hardware stores, or online.
To use a refrigerator thermometer, you should place it in the middle of the refrigerator, away from the walls, vents, and door. You should check the temperature at least once a day, or more often if the weather is hot or humid. You should also check the temperature after a power outage, or if you notice any changes in the cooling performance of your refrigerator.
If the temperature is too high or too low, you should adjust the thermostat accordingly. The thermostat is a dial or a digital control that regulates the temperature of the refrigerator. You can find it inside the refrigerator, usually on the wall or the ceiling. You should follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to set the thermostat for your specific model.
How to Troubleshoot Some Common Issues That Can Affect the Cooling Performance of Your Refrigerator
If your refrigerator is running at 42 degrees, even after adjusting the thermostat, there may be some other issues that are affecting the cooling performance of your appliance. Here are some of the common causes and solutions for a refrigerator that is not cooling properly:
The door seal is damaged or dirty. The door seal is a rubber gasket that forms a tight seal between the door and the refrigerator. It prevents the cold air from escaping and the warm air from entering the refrigerator. If the door seal is damaged or dirty, it can create gaps that allow the air to leak. To fix this, you should inspect the door seal for any cracks, tears, or debris. You should clean the door seal with a damp cloth and mild soap, and replace it if it is worn out or broken.
The coils are dirty or dusty. The coils are metal tubes that carry the refrigerant, a fluid that absorbs and releases heat, through the refrigerator. The coils are located at the back or the bottom of the refrigerator. If the coils are dirty or dusty, they can reduce the efficiency of the refrigerant and make the refrigerator work harder to cool down. To fix this, you should unplug the refrigerator and use a vacuum cleaner or a brush to remove the dust and dirt from the coils. You should do this at least once every six months, or more often if you have pets or a dusty environment.
The vents are blocked or clogged. The vents are openings that allow the cold air to circulate inside the refrigerator. The vents are located on the walls or the shelves of the refrigerator. If the vents are blocked or clogged by food items or containers, they can restrict the airflow and cause uneven cooling. To fix this, you should rearrange the food items and containers to leave some space around the vents. You should also avoid overloading the refrigerator, as this can reduce the air circulation and increase the temperature.
The refrigerator is too close to the wall or other heat sources. The refrigerator needs some space around it to allow the heat to dissipate and the air to flow. If the refrigerator is too close to the wall or other heat sources, such as an oven, a dishwasher, or a sunny window, it can affect the cooling performance and increase the energy consumption. To fix this, you should move the refrigerator away from the wall or other heat sources, and leave at least a few inches of clearance on all sides.
The ideal temperature for a refrigerator is between 35 and 38 degrees Fahrenheit. 42 degrees is too high and can spoil the food faster. If your refrigerator is running at 42 degrees, you should check the thermostat, the door seal, the coils, and the vents to find the cause of the problem and fix it as soon as possible. You should also use a refrigerator thermometer to measure the temperature of your refrigerator and adjust it accordingly. By keeping your refrigerator at the optimal temperature, you can ensure the freshness and safety of your food and save money and energy.
