Maintaining the appropriate fridge temperature is crucial for keeping food fresh. Values that are too low will lead to freezing food and frost on the walls, while too high will accelerate decay processes. Let's find out what fridge temperature is appropriate and why proper cold distribution is so important.
What will you learn from this article?
- Where in the fridge to store certain products.
- How to set the right cooling temperature inside the fridge.
- What cooling solutions modern fridges offer.
How to organize the inside of the fridge?
Inside the fridge, temperature fluctuations can be observed, which is why a varied distribution of food is so important.
- In the lowest containers, where the temperature stays at 7-8 degrees Celsius, you should store vegetables and fruits.
- On the shelf above the baskets, you can place meat and fish – 2 degrees is the optimal temperature for storing easily perishable foods.
- The highest and middle shelves are perfect for storing:
- dairy products,
- cold cuts,
- cheeses
- prepared meals (the temperature in this part hovers around 4 degrees).
The relatively highest temperature is on the 'balconies', i.e., the shelves in the fridge door, so it's worth placing food products there that don't require strong cooling (sauces, spices, or drinks). Importantly, remember not to put warm dishes into the fridge – warm air rises, increasing the temperature and forcing the fridge to work more intensively, which generates higher energy consumption.
And what if you have an older fridge model?
If you have an older generation fridge and want to check if the thermal stratification is appropriate, you can invest in a special elongated fridge thermometer that measures the temperature over a wide range. Thanks to it, the optimal temperature in a fridge, even an older type, will be achievable.
The right fridge temperature isn't everything! Remember, food can't be stored too densely or touch the fridge walls. Fresh meat should be kept in sealed containers. The way food is stored significantly affects extending its shelf life.
How to set the temperature inside the fridge?
To maintain the appropriate temperature inside the fridge, you need to know the thermostat operating mechanism. In older models, thermostat control is mechanical, via a dial. The higher the number on the control panel, the lower the temperature in the fridge. Newer fridges are equipped with an electronic control panel, which allows precise temperature setting. If you're unsure how to set the thermostat for optimal temperature distribution, check the manufacturer's recommendations. In the user manual, you'll find information on changing the temperature and tips on where the lowest temperature is maintained, which will help preserve nutritional value, stop decay processes, and also inhibit bacterial growth.
Cooling stability – modern fridge models
A properly chosen temperature in the fridge is crucial for people who buy long-lasting food. If you don't want to waste food and care about safely storing food, consider buying fridges with functions that provide even more efficient temperature management. Particularly appealing are appliances with a Triple Cooling system, which makes individual cooling zones fully optimized in terms of temperature distribution.
Modern fridges are designed so that food stored on the upper shelves of the main fridge chamber retains proper humidity, and odors don't mix with products in the lower chambers. Noteworthy are also models equipped with intelligent Fresher Sensors, which reduce temperature fluctuations when the doors are frequently opened, benefiting the food stored in the fridge.
How to organize shelves in the fridge to optimally use space?
Shelf organization in the fridge is crucial for maintaining appropriate temperature and food freshness. On the highest shelves, where the temperature is slightly higher, it's worth storing products that don't require intensive cooling, such as jams, preserves, or ready meals. The middle shelves are ideal for storing dairy products, cold cuts, and cheeses. Remember not to stack products too densely, as it may hamper air circulation and lead to uneven cooling. Also, regularly clean the shelves to prevent bacteria growth.
What are the most common mistakes in storing food in the fridge?
One of the most common mistakes is putting warm dishes into the fridge, which raises the internal temperature and increases energy consumption. Another frequent mistake is storing food in inappropriate places, e.g., meat on the fridge doors. Many people also forget to regularly clean the fridge, which may lead to bacteria growth and unpleasant odors. It's also important not to overload the fridge, as too many products can impede air circulation and lead to uneven cooling.
What are the advantages of fridges with the No Frost system?
No Frost fridges are an excellent solution for those who want to avoid the problem of frost on the walls and the need for regular defrosting. The No Frost system operates by continuous air circulation inside the fridge, preventing moisture build-up and frost formation. Thanks to this, food is evenly cooled, and the fridge requires less maintenance. The No Frost system is particularly recommended for storing high-humidity products like vegetables and fruits, as it prevents drying out.
What are the benefits of using a fridge thermometer?
A fridge thermometer is a simple but very useful tool for accurately monitoring the device's internal temperature. Thanks to it, you can ensure the temperature is optimal for the stored products, which is especially important for older fridge models, which may lack precise temperature control systems. The fridge thermometer is also useful in the event of a device malfunction, as it allows quick detection of cooling problems. It's worth regularly checking the fridge temperature to avoid unnecessary food wastage.
What are the latest trends in fridge design?
Modern fridges are not only functional but also feature design and innovative technological solutions. One of the latest trends is fridge integration with smart home systems, allowing remote monitoring and temperature control via a smartphone app. Also becoming more popular are fridges with transparent doors, allowing quick content checks without opening the door. Another interesting trend is using eco-friendly solutions, such as fridges with energy reduction systems or using environmentally friendly materials.
What is the optimal freezer temperature?
The optimal freezer temperature should be around -18 degrees Celsius. This value ensures safe storage of frozen goods, inhibiting bacterial growth and preserving nutritional values. In the case of Samsung fridges, it's worth checking the manufacturer's recommendations, as some models may have slightly different settings. Remember, too low a temperature in the freezer can increase energy consumption, while too high can shorten the stored food's lifespan.
How to increase the temperature in the fridge?
If you want to increase the fridge temperature, you can do so using the thermostat dial or control panel. In the case of Whirlpool fridges, the dial is typically set to lower values to raise the temperature. In newer models with electronic control, simply select the appropriate option in the menu. Remember, how many degrees should be set in the fridge depends on the type of stored products. The recommended temperature is 4-5 degrees Celsius in the main chamber. For LG fridges, check the instructions to precisely adjust the settings to your needs. And what – besides the fridge, of course – should be found in a well-designed kitchen?