Maintaining the right temperature in the refrigerator is crucial for preserving the freshness of food products. Too low values can lead to freezing food and frosting on the walls, while too high values accelerate decay processes. We will check what temperature should be maintained inside the refrigerator and why proper cold distribution is so important.
How to Organize the Interior of the Refrigerator?
In the interior of the refrigerator, temperature fluctuations can be observed, which is why a varied distribution of food is so important. In the lowest containers, where the temperature is maintained at 7-8 degrees Celsius, vegetables and fruits should be stored. On the shelf above the baskets, you can place meat and fish - 2 degrees is the optimal temperature for storing easily perishable food. The highest and middle shelves are ideal for storing dairy products, cold cuts, cheeses, and pre-prepared meals (the temperature in this part oscillates around 4 degrees).
The relatively highest temperature is found on the "balconies," i.e., the shelves on the refrigerator doors, so it's worth placing food products there that do not require strong cooling (sauces, spices, or beverages). Importantly, remember not to put warm dishes in the refrigerator - warm air rises, increasing the temperature and essentially making the refrigerator work harder, which generates higher energy consumption.
What if You Have an Older Model Refrigerator?
If you have an older model refrigerator and would like to check if the thermal stratification is adequate, you can invest in a special probe thermometer for refrigerators that measures temperature over a wide range. Thanks to this, the optimal temperature in even older-type refrigerators will be achievable.
The right temperature in the refrigerator is not everything! Remember that food should not be packed too tightly or touch the walls of the refrigerator. Fresh meat should be kept in airtight containers. The way food is stored is significant for extending the shelf life.
How to Set the Temperature Inside the Refrigerator?
To maintain the appropriate temperature inside the refrigerator, you need to understand how to operate the thermostat. In older models, thermostat control is done mechanically, using a knob. The higher the number on the control panel, the lower the temperature in the refrigerator. Newer refrigerators are equipped with an electronic control panel that allows precise temperature settings in the refrigerator. If you do not know how to set the thermostat to achieve optimal temperature distribution, check the manufacturer's recommendations. In the user manual, you will find information on how to change the temperature and tips on where the lowest temperature is, which will help maintain the nutritional value of the food, prevent decay processes, and inhibit the growth of bacteria.
Cooling Stability - Modern Refrigerator Models
Correctly chosen temperature in the refrigerator is very important for people who buy food with long expiration dates. If you do not want to waste food products and care about safe food storage, consider purchasing refrigerators with features that ensure even more efficient temperature management. Particularly interesting solutions seem to be appliances with a Triple Cooling system, which ensures that individual cooling zones are fully optimized in terms of temperature distribution.
Modern refrigerators are designed in such a way that food stored on the upper shelves of the main compartment maintains the appropriate moisture, and odors do not mix with the products in the lower compartments. Models equipped with intelligent Fresher Sensors deserve special attention, as they reduce temperature fluctuations when the doors are frequently opened, which positively affects the food stored in the refrigerator.