How to Keep Your Refrigerator Ice Cold

Refrigeration helps prevent spoilage of foods.

Most refrigerators have internal controls for temperature. These controls often indicate the most common range for optimal refrigeration, but you can adjust the temperature to suit your own preferences. Very cold temperatures can damage some types of food, such as fresh produce, so take the contents of your refrigerator into account when adjusting the thermostat.

Instructions

1. Locate the temperature controls inside your refrigerator. If you cannot find them, consult your owner's manual. The controls will most likely be at the back or on the ceiling of the inside of the refrigerator.

2. Adjust the controls gradually, waiting 24 hours between each adjustment, until you reach the desired temperature.

3. Maintain the temperature by ensuring the fridge is operating properly. Check the gasket around the door of the fridge to see that it forms a good seal. Clean the coils behind the fridge for more efficient cooling.

4. Keep the refrigerator door closed as much as possible to maintain the inside temperature.

Tips & Warnings

• Most items requiring refrigeration need to be stored at 40 degrees F or below to avoid spoilage and contamination.

References

• Whirlpool: Adjusting Temperature Controls - Side by Side Refrigerator
• USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service: Emergency Preparedness