At a Glance:
Understanding a Refrigerator Thermometer
Finding the Best Temperature for Refrigerator Settings
Why is My Refrigerator Not Cooling
We’ve been there just like you, putting away groceries and wondering, “What temperature should a refrigerator be?” And you’re not wrong for asking, because knowing the optimum refrigerator temperature your appliance should be running at will not only keep your favorite ingredients fresh, but storing food at the right temperature keeps you and your loved ones safe from >foodborne illnesses.
Luckily, our experts know the ideal temperature for refrigerators for food safety and preservation. We discuss the topic in this guide, along with highlights on the best refrigerator models on the market today for food preservation.
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Shop NowUnderstanding a Refrigerator Thermometer
The first step to answering what temperature should a refrigerator be set at begins with understanding how a refrigerator thermometer works. For most users, a >refrigerator thermometer serves as a display for temperature in either Fahrenheit or Celsius. The numbers indicate the current temperature inside the fridge. However, savvy fridge owners should know that the ideal range is around 35 to 38°F to keep food safe.
To read a refrigerator thermometer correctly, look at the number where the pointer lands to determine the temperature. Thermometers usually show accurate readings within a few seconds to a minute, but the time can vary based on the thermometer type and its precision. Digital refrigerator thermometers typically render quicker readings compared to analog thermometers.
What Temperature Should a Refrigerator Be?
Determining the best refrigerator temperature involves understanding a variety of factors.
Generally:
- The back and top shelves on a refrigerator are the coldest spots.
- Refrigerator door shelves are warmer because they’re exposed to ambient air from frequent opening.
So, how cold should a refrigerator be? Overall, users should aim for a refrigerator between 35° and 38°F to maintain food safety without freezing items. However, not all foods require refrigeration; produce such as tomatoes or onions fare better outside, while foods including dairy, meat, and leftovers do need refrigeration. Be sure to seal items tightly to prevent cross-contamination and use a refrigerator thermometer to monitor temperatures regularly.
Additionally, refrigerator temperature settings are important to monitor. Consider each food's shelf life, and follow brand guidelines to maintain freshness and quality. If you ensure you are using the best temp for refrigerator freshness, this will make a huge impact on the quality of food you enjoy daily.
Best Refrigerator Temperature for Produce
Unfortunately, there isn’t a clear-cut rule that determines the best refrigerator temperature for produce, although the best temperature for refrigerators is around 40°F in terms of the ideal temperature for refrigerator for food safety. Leafy greens, herbs, and berries benefit from slightly cooler temperatures around 33°F to maintain crispness and prolong freshness. Meanwhile, items fruits like apples, melons, and citrus fruits do well between 45 to 50°F to retain their flavor and texture. Adjusting humidity levels in the >crisper drawers can also help preserve different types of produce, and this can help you reach the best refrigerator temperature for vegetables.
Best Refrigerator Temperature for Meats
The best refrigerator temps for storing meats is between 32°F to 40°F. This range helps inhibit bacterial growth and maintains the quality of your meat. Keeping the refrigerator temperature at this level slows down spoilage, ensuring that meats stay fresh for a longer period. It's crucial to store meats in sealed containers or tightly wrapped to prevent cross-contamination and to place them on the bottom shelf or in drawers to avoid any drips onto other foods. Always follow specific storage guidelines for different types of meats to ensure food safety and quality. By following this advice, you will easily find the best refrigerator temperature for meat and safety.
Why is My Refrigerator Not Cooling?
Of course, food safety starts with a work appliance, so if you’re finding yourself aksing “Why is my refrigerator not cooling?” that problem needs to be solved ASAP. Some common reasons a refrigerator isn’t cooling include the following:
Dirty Refrigerator Condenser Coils
A refrigerator not cooling could be due to your condenser coils being dirty. Dust and debris on the coils hinder the proper heat exchange needed for your refrigerator to run properly. To fix this issue, unplug the fridge, locate the coils (usually at the back or underneath), and vacuum or brush off the accumulated dirt gently. This should help get your refrigerator cooling normally once again.
Faulty Refrigerator Door Seals
Damaged or worn-out door seals can cause air leaks in your refrigerator. To fix this issue, check for gaps in the seals by placing a dollar bill in the door; if it slips out easily, replace the seals. Clean seals with warm, soapy water to enhance their effectiveness. If the problem still occurs, it’s best to replace the gaskets entirely—a job that can be done without a professional but also doesn’t cost a fortune to have a pro do.
Thermostat Issues
Incorrect thermostat settings or a malfunctioning thermostat could be the reason your refrigerator is not cooling. First, ensure the thermostat is set to the recommended temperature. If the fridge remains warm, consider replacing the thermostat or seeking professional help.
Blocked Refrigerator Vents
Obstructed air vents can prevent proper airflow for your refrigerator, causing a fridge to malfunction. To fix this problem, rearrange items to ensure the vents aren't blocked. Allow adequate space for air circulation within the fridge, and this may correct your cooling woes.
Faulty Evaporator Fan
A malfunctioning fan can disrupt the circulation of cold air in your refrigerator. You’ll want to listen for the fan; if it's not running, check for obstructions. If it's still not working, the fan might need replacement by a professional.
Refrigerant Leak
Low refrigerant levels due to leaks could cause your refrigerator not to cool properly. This problem requires professional repair. Contact a certified technician to detect and fix the leak, then recharge the refrigerant.
Compressor Issues
A malfunctioning refrigerator compressor could be the reason your refrigerator’s cooling process is inhibited. If the compressor doesn’t run despite power being on, or if it's making unusual noises, professional intervention will be necessary to repair or replace the compressor.
Top Refrigerators That Cool
A refrigerator that cools efficiently and effectively is worth its weight in gold. Take a look at our favorite picks from brands that go the extra mile to ensure fresh and frozen foods stay fresh and cooler longer.
Bosch® 800 Series 20.5 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Counter Depth French Door Refrigerator
This French door refrigerator from Bosch boasts VitaFreshPro technology, maintaining optimal humidity levels for produce, which helps extend its freshness. Its MultiAirFlow system ensures consistent cooling throughout, while the SuperCool function rapidly chills newly added items. With adjustable shelves and a FlexBar for versatile storage, it suits families or cooking enthusiasts needing ample space and customizable organization. Its sleek design and advanced preservation features make it ideal for those valuing premium performance and style in their kitchen appliances.
★ Featured Bosch B36CL80SNS Review:
“This fridge is very functional. I love the separate door for fruits and veggies as you are not constantly opening the big upper part.”
GE Profile™ 25.3 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Side-by-Side Refrigerator
Shop This GE Profile Refrigerator
This side-by-side model contains advanced cooling technologies like TwinChill evaporators, maintaining separate climates for the fridge and freezer to preserve food longer. Its Turbo Cool and Turbo Freeze settings rapidly restore optimal temperatures after door openings. Features include adjustable shelves for flexible storage, LED lighting for enhanced visibility, and a water/ice dispenser for convenience. With more than 15,000 5-star reviews, this top-rated GE Profile refrigerator is a user favorite and of the most-reviewed models on the market, making it a top choice for shoppers looking for the biggest bang for the buck.
★ Featured GE Profile PSE25KYHFS Review:
“This fridge is perfect! The ice machine takes up no room leaving the freezer with tons of space. The refrigerator side is equally roomy fitting everything and more! I love the LED lighting. Just an all-around winner and the best fridge I ever owned."
Cafe™ 27.5 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel 4-Door French Door Refrigerator
This 4-door refrigerator has advanced cooling technology like TwinChill evaporators, which help to maintain optimal humidity levels to keep food fresher for longer. Its custom temperature settings for various compartments cater to diverse storage needs, along with precise climate control ideal for food enthusiasts and families seeking superior freshness for a wide array of perishables. Additional features like adjustable shelves, a full-width drawer, and an internal water dispenser add convenience and versatility, making it a top choice for those valuing customizable storage and prolonged food preservation.
★ Featured Cafe CVE28DP2NS1 Review:
“We love this refrigerator from the slim line ice maker to the backlight that allows you to see literally everything on the shelves, including things along the back wall. The water sensor works swimmingly and the three drawer freezer is genius. The app is very simple but does give full stats so not much more is needed.”
Learn More: >A Guide to the Best New Smart Refrigerators
Electrolux 21.8 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Counter-Depth French Door Refrigerator
Shop This Electrolux Refrigerator
This model from Electrolux offers precision cooling with Perfect Temp and Custom Temp Drawers, optimizing temperature for various foods. Together with the exclusive PureAdvantage Filtration System, the interior maintains freshness by eliminating odors and contaminants. With humidity-controlled crisper drawers and Luxury-Glide storage bins, this French door refrigerator ensures ideal conditions for produce. The sleek stainless steel design also complements modern kitchens. Best suited for families or homeowners valuing precise temperature control and ample storage, this model caters to those seeking advanced food preservation features without compromising style in a counter-depth design.
★ Featured Electrolux ERMC2295AS Review:
“A lot of thought went into the organization of this fridge, freezer, and hybrid drawer. There are so many ways to customize the shelves and drawers to tailor it to your own needs making it easier to find what you are looking for. The size is deceiving - although this fridge is technically smaller than our last one, it feels larger due to the intelligent design.”
LG 22.5 Cu. Ft. PrintProof™ Stainless Steel Counter Depth French Door Refrigerator
This counter-depth refrigerator boasts superior cooling technology with a Multi-Air Flow System, ensuring consistent temperatures for optimal food preservation. Its Smart Cooling system maintains humidity levels, ideal for preserving produce. It is also one of the top energy efficient refrigerators of its kind. Plus, the PrintProof™ exterior resists fingerprints, maintaining a pristine look. With adjustable shelving, spacious compartments, and a Slim SpacePlus® Ice System, it suits households seeking advanced cooling, ample storage, and a sleek design. As the exclusive refrigerator brand with an InstaView Door-in-Door feature, this refrigerator helps keep things cool by reducing the amount of cold air escaping with the handy in-panel door.
★ Featured LG LRMVC2306S Review:
“I bought this at the beginning of October and have never been happier with the space and options available. When I get ready for more major appliances I will definitely look at LG.”
Learn More: Energy Star Refrigerator: What Does It Mean
Hopefully, we’ve helped answer “What temperature should a refrigerator be” and provided helpful tips to create the ideal environment for your food to have lasting freshness. To learn more about food safety and the best refrigerators for cooling, head to Albert Lee in the Puget Sound area for top-notch refrigerators with customizable climate controls. Our wide selection of fridges, including innovative options with adjustable compartments and precise temperature settings, guarantees ideal storage conditions for various foods. Make your food last and experience unparalleled freshness by finding your perfect refrigerator at Albert Lee today!
Learn More: Is it Cheaper to Repair or Replace a Refrigerator?
Why Trust Albert Lee?
Since 1939, Albert Lee Appliance, a three-generation, family-owned business, continues to grow and serve the Pacific Northwest with quality products you can count on and service you can trust. We are proud to have served this community for so long and wouldn’t be here without our loyal customers. There is a reason why we are Washington’s largest independent appliance dealer, and it’s not a secret. Simply put: We have the experience. We have been the original appliance experts for over eight decades (and counting).
Shop Refrigerators at Albert Lee
At Albert Lee Appliance, we provide quality name-brand appliances for great prices. Shop refrigerators online or visit us today at one of our six locations in Puget Sound, WA. In the meantime, browse our website to shop Albert Lee appliance sales and check out Albert Lee appliance reviews online to ensure every purchase is an informed one. More available than ever, our experts at Albert Lee Appliance are always happy to help you answer questions like what temperature should a refrigerator be and more, whether you call us or use our online chat feature. Contact us today!
Learn More: Energy Star Refrigerator: What Does It Mean