Refrigerator Temperature Settings

One of the most essential kitchen appliances that is required by all of us nowadays is the refrigerator. The prime purpose of a refrigerator is to prevent the growth of bacteria and other pathogens in food. While the ideal temperature for the growth of such bacteria is above 42°F, the temperature of a refrigerator is always below this figure. If at any time, the temperature of a refrigerator goes above it due to poor functioning or a blackout, it is not safe to eat the foods kept in such a refrigerator beyond 4 hours. This is because as the temperature changes, the growth of bacteria present in food becomes rapid, and because it does not alter any aspect of the food in terms of taste or appearance, you will not be able to tell whether the food has gone bad. Such foods may contribute to several health problems including food poisoning which can be very harmful. A refrigerator is essential for foods such as meat, dairy, vegetables and also fruits, in order to prevent them from spoiling. To ensure that you don't face any problems with regard to refrigerator temperatures and subsequent spoilage of food, here is a guide on the recommended refrigerator temperature settings.

Recommended Temperature Settings for Refrigerators

In order to prevent the formation of bacteria and other such organisms to affect food the way it does, the ideal temperature range of refrigerators has been mentioned here. Before we look at these settings, it is important to know the format in which temperatures are represented within a refrigerator. Commonly, you will notice a dial representing the figures 1-5 or 1-9 in the refrigerator, and a dial representing the letters A-E in the freezer. The ideal setting is usually in the middle of such figures.

• If the dial is in such a format in your refrigerator, try a setting at 3 if the range is 1-5, and at 4 if the range is 1-9. For the freezer, a setting at C is suitable.
• The ideal temperature in the refrigerator ranges between 34°F - 38°F or 1°C - 3°C. So that foods such as vegetables and fruits remain fresh and crisp, the temperature may be set around 38°F or 3°C.
• The ideal temperature in the freezer ranges around 0°F (-18°C) or lower.

Additional Tips

There are some important tips that you should keep in mind when setting the refrigerator temperature so that the foods it contains last as long as possible. These tips have been mentioned here.

• The temperature of refrigerators should not be allowed to exceed 41°F as this will contribute to the growth of bacteria in the food, and cause different health problems, including food poisoning if consumed.
• A temperature below 34°F in the refrigerator may cause the food to freeze, and you will have to defrost it before using it. If this happens to vegetables and fruits they will go limp and will be rendered inedible.
• At any time when you change the temperature, give it a minimum of 24 hours to take complete effect.
• The external temperatures also influence the internal refrigerator temperature. This means, you will have to set your refrigerator lower in summer, and higher in winter, especially if you live in extreme climatic conditions. On the other hand, if the climate in your zone is moderate, your refrigerator temperature will be less affected by external temperatures.
• In order to check and ensure the internal temperature of the refrigerator, you may place a thermometer kept in a glass of water in the fridge. The exact temperature will be available to you anywhere within 5-8 hours.
• For your refrigerator to cool effectively, it is essential that your air vents are functioning well. Do not place any items before it, and clean it on a regular basis for maximum effect.

To ensure that your refrigerator continues functioning well, have it serviced every once in a while. Also, if it does not cool enough, ensure that you have it checked by a professional appliance repairman so as to prevent the food from going bad.