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You may not attach particular importance to it, but a lot depends on whether the refrigerator operates at the right temperature. When the temperature of the refrigerator rises above a certain point, the number of bacteria starts to increase exponentially. While not all bacteria are “bad,” you’re better off not letting them multiply, as this can significantly increase the risk of foodborne illnesses, which can come with quite unpleasant symptoms, including vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and even fever.
What should be the correct temperature of the refrigerator?
Recommendations often state that the internal temperature of the refrigerator should be 4 degrees Celsius. However, experts believe it’s more beneficial if the refrigerator temperature falls within the range of 1.7 and 3.3 degrees Celsius. This way, the food doesn’t freeze, but it also doesn’t reach the temperature at which bacteria start to multiply.
IF YOU USE THE REFRIGERATOR AT A HIGHER TEMPERATURE THAN THIS, FOOD CAN SPOIL FASTER, AND IT CAN PROVIDE AN OPPORTUNITY FOR DANGEROUS BACTERIA TO SETTLE, SUCH AS SALMONELLA OR E. COLI.
What should be the temperature of the freezer?
For the freezer, the target value is minus 18 degrees Celsius. Some devices also have a quick-freeze function, allowing newly placed foods to freeze as quickly as possible. However, it’s not advisable to set the freezer temperature much lower, as this can unnecessarily increase energy consumption and may lead to foods losing moisture and flavor.
IF THERE IS A LOT OF ICE IN THE FREEZER, IT IS A SURE SIGN THAT IT IS TOO COLD IN THERE.
How to check the temperature? While modern appliances allow for precise temperature settings, there can be a few degrees of difference between the specified temperature and the actual value. In older devices, temperature can only be set on a scale from 1 to 5, making it a guessing game.
Experts suggest getting a standalone thermometer to help determine whether the internal temperature of the appliance is suitable. A few additional tips to use the refrigerator as efficiently as possible: Let the food cool down.
Never put warm food in the freezer or refrigerator, as this favors the proliferation of bacteria. Check the door seals. Seals ensure that the cold cannot “escape,” so if they become deformed or damaged, it can reduce the efficiency of the appliance and increase energy consumption. Don’t open the door too often. Every time you open the refrigerator door, warm air flows in, so try to plan ahead and take out everything you need at once. Make sure the refrigerator is not empty. Not just to avoid family hunger. The more food there is in the refrigerator and freezer, the less the machine has to work to maintain the desired temperature. Ideally, the appliance should only have about 20% empty space.
