What is the Correct Refrigerator Temperature?

The correct refrigerator temperature is usually set by a national authority. Other authorities or private entity can set the refrigerator temperature which is lower than temperature set by the national authority.

The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) set the maximum refrigerator temperature at 41 Degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature is the maximum for the actual product being refrigerated. This is often confused for the air temperature. The air temperature may fluctuate but the product temperature must remain at 41 or lower. If the product or food temperature is higher than 41 degrees Fahrenheit, it is a violation of FDA regulation. The colder the product, the longer it will last. Studies found that 38 Degrees is a more optimum temperature. A refrigerator unit set at 38 degrees might come on at 38 Degrees and shut off at 35 Degrees. Temperatures below 35 Degrees require a forced defrost cycle.

The refrigerator freezer compartment must be between 0-10 degrees Fahrenheit. The refrigerator compartment section must be between 38 to 41 degrees. If the temperature in the food compartment is higher than 42 degrees Fahrenheit, you basically have no proper refrigeration in your food. This will cause your food to spoil and may make you sick.

Word of caution: If the temperature in your refrigerator freezer is at 18 degrees and higher, you should think something is wrong with your refrigerator. A freezer temperature of 20 degrees and higher is not a correct temperature for a refrigerator, if this is the case, your refrigerator has a problem. If you suspect that your refrigerator is not keeping correct temperature, you should get help from a professional refrigerator technician. Please contact us to diagnose your refrigerator problem; we will gladly help you for a reasonable cost.