The most common temperature for a refrigerator is between 35°F and 38°F. This is the ideal range to keep your food fresh and safe, without freezing it or allowing bacteria to grow. In this article, you’ll learn why this temperature range is recommended, how to measure and adjust your refrigerator temperature, and what factors can affect the performance of your refrigerator.
Why 35°F to 38°F is the Best Refrigerator Temperature
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advises that your refrigerator temperature should be at or below 40°F. This is because above this temperature, the so-called “danger zone” begins, where bacteria can multiply rapidly and cause foodborne illnesses. However, setting your refrigerator temperature just below 40°F may not be enough, as there could be variations in different parts of your refrigerator, or inaccuracies in your temperature gauge. That’s why it’s better to aim for a lower range, between 35°F and 38°F, to give yourself some margin of error and ensure that your food stays out of the danger zone.
Another reason to avoid higher temperatures is to preserve the quality and shelf life of your food. Higher temperatures can cause your food to spoil faster, lose its flavor, texture, and nutrients, and produce unpleasant odors. On the other hand, lower temperatures can help your food retain its freshness, taste, and appearance for longer.
However, you don’t want to go too low either, as freezing temperatures can damage your food as well. Freezing can cause ice crystals to form on your food, which can affect its texture and moisture content. Some foods, such as fruits, vegetables, dairy products, and eggs, can become mushy, watery, or rubbery when frozen and thawed. Moreover, freezing can also affect the functionality of your refrigerator, as ice can build up on the coils and reduce the efficiency and lifespan of your appliance.
Therefore, the best compromise is to keep your refrigerator temperature between 35°F and 38°F, which is close enough to freezing to prevent bacterial growth and food spoilage, but not so cold that it freezes your food or harms your refrigerator.
How to Measure and Adjust Your Refrigerator Temperature
To measure your refrigerator temperature, you’ll need a thermometer that is designed for refrigerators or freezers. You can find these thermometers in most grocery stores, hardware stores, or online. They are usually inexpensive and easy to use. Here are the steps to follow:
Place the thermometer in the middle of the refrigerator, away from the walls, door, or vents.
Close the door and wait for at least 24 hours, or until the temperature stabilizes.
Check the reading on the thermometer and compare it to the recommended range of 35°F to 38°F.
If the temperature is too high or too low, adjust the temperature dial or knob on your refrigerator, usually located inside the refrigerator or on the door. You may need to consult your refrigerator manual for the exact location and instructions.
Wait for another 24 hours and check the temperature again. Repeat the process until you reach the desired temperature.
It’s a good idea to check your refrigerator temperature regularly, at least once a month, or whenever you notice changes in the performance of your refrigerator or the quality of your food. You should also check your temperature after adding a large amount of food, opening the door frequently, or experiencing a power outage, as these factors can affect the temperature of your refrigerator.
What Factors Can Affect the Performance of Your Refrigerator
Besides the temperature setting, there are other factors that can influence the performance of your refrigerator and the safety of your food. Here are some tips to optimize your refrigerator and avoid common problems:
Keep your refrigerator clean and organized. Wipe down the shelves, drawers, and door seals regularly to remove spills, crumbs, and dirt. Dispose of expired, spoiled, or moldy food promptly. Store your food in airtight containers or bags to prevent cross-contamination and odor transfer. Arrange your food so that there is enough space for air circulation and visibility.
Avoid overloading or underloading your refrigerator. Overloading your refrigerator can reduce the airflow and make it harder for your refrigerator to maintain a consistent temperature. Underloading your refrigerator can make it work harder and waste energy. Aim for a balance between having enough food to meet your needs and leaving enough room for ventilation.
Keep the door closed as much as possible. Opening the door frequently or for too long can let warm air in and cold air out, which can raise the temperature of your refrigerator and cause your food to spoil faster. Only open the door when you need to access your food, and close it as soon as possible. Make sure the door seals are tight and not damaged or dirty, as they can also affect the temperature of your refrigerator.
Maintain your refrigerator regularly. Check the coils, fan, and drain pan of your refrigerator and clean them if they are dusty, dirty, or clogged. These parts are responsible for removing heat and moisture from your refrigerator, and if they are not working properly, they can affect the temperature and efficiency of your refrigerator. You may need to hire a professional to service your refrigerator if you notice any problems or malfunctions.
Keeping your refrigerator temperature between 35°F and 38°F is the best way to ensure that your food is fresh, safe, and tasty. To achieve this, you need to measure and adjust your refrigerator temperature regularly, and follow some simple tips to optimize your refrigerator performance. By doing so, you can enjoy your food and avoid wasting money and energy.
