When a new batch of refrigerators comes into our labs we start by setting the ambient temperature in our climate controlled chambers to 70 f to simulate conditions in most home kitchens.
Best temperature settings for fridge and freezer.
Some models may have different recommendations in the user manual or on the control panel.
On most models the ideal temperature setting for the refrigerator is 38 degrees fahrenheit.
Adjust the freezer settings as necessary to get the temperature in a safe range after making adjustments to either the freezer or refrigerator check the thermometer s temperature readout after five hours repeating the adjustment process until the reading is in the ideal range.
You also eliminate food waste and that keeps money in your bank account by saving on your grocery bill.
The perfect temperature range for a freezer is at or slightly below 0 f and never more than 2 f.
The recommended freezer temperature to keep your food safe is at or below 0 f 18 c but your freezer may need to be set higher or lower depending on its environment and other factors.
If a fridge does its job properly turning the temperature control to colder when you put in a large load of groceries won t speed up the cooling process it ll just mean your food ends up colder.
The typical freezer factory setting on whirlpool refrigerators is a great starting point at the recommended 0 f 18 c.
See our how to load a fridge guide.
As long as the fridge is under 40 and the freezer is at 0 or less you will keep food fresh.