Refrigerators are an essential appliance in many households. However, adjusting their temperature optimally remains a question for many. Today, let’s explore some effective tips for using your refrigerator efficiently and saving energy!
1 Adjusting Buttons on the Refrigerator
Modern refrigerators come with buttons to adjust the temperature according to your needs. Before learning how to set the ideal temperature, let’s understand the functions of these adjustment buttons!
Temperature Control Knob
The Temp.Control knob is usually a rotating dial with multiple levels for users to adjust:
-
When you turn the knob to higher numbers (toward MAX), the refrigerator will get colder (both freezer and fridge compartments), and it will operate at a higher capacity.
-
When you turn the knob to lower numbers (toward MIN), the temperature will increase, making the refrigerator less cold, and it will operate at a lower capacity.
The Temp.Control knob is typically located in the fridge compartment but controls the temperature for the entire refrigerator, including the freezer and fridge sections.
Temperature Control Knob
Freezer Temp Control Button
Another essential adjustment button in your refrigerator is the Freezer Temp Control. This button is usually located in the freezer compartment and appears as a sliding bar, controlling the amount of cold air blown into both the freezer and fridge compartments.
This button adjusts the fan inside the refrigerator. This fan draws cold air from the evaporator and blows it into both compartments. So, when you prioritize cold air for one compartment, the other will receive less cold air.
-
When you slide the bar towards “MAX”: the fan will blow colder air into the freezer, making it colder and better for freezing food. As a result, the amount of cold air in the fridge compartment will be minimized.
-
When you slide the bar towards “MIN”: it restricts the amount of cold air blown into the freezer. Consequently, more cold air will automatically circulate into the fridge compartment.
Freezer Temp Control Button
For more information: Tips to maximize your refrigerator space
2 Adjusting the Refrigerator Temperature Sensibly
Adjusting the refrigerator temperature wisely depends on the amount of food you’re storing. If your refrigerator contains a small amount of food, adjust it to a moderate setting.
However, if your refrigerator is packed with a lot of fresh food, it’s best to set it to MAX to preserve the food optimally.
To learn how to adjust the temperature for each compartment specifically, follow these guidelines:
Adjusting the Temperature for the Freezer Compartment
The freezer compartment is meant for storing fresh foods such as meat, poultry, fish, and dry goods. Therefore, it’s crucial to set the right temperature to prevent food spoilage and mold growth.
Fresh foods are best preserved at a temperature of -18 degrees Celsius. At this temperature, bacteria and mold cannot thrive. Thus, the ideal temperature for the freezer is -18°C.
If your freezer is not well-stocked, you can set it to -12 degrees Celsius. However, be aware that fresh food may not last as long at this temperature if stored for an extended period.
Ideal freezer temperature: -18°C
Adjusting the Temperature for the Fridge Compartment
The fridge compartment is suitable for storing beverages, dairy products, cooked food, cosmetics, and more.
The ideal temperature range for this compartment is 2 – 4 degrees Celsius. This temperature ensures the optimal preservation of all types of food stored in the fridge.
Ideal fridge temperature: 2 – 4°C
When storing cooked food, it’s best to use aluminum or glass containers with lids. Alternatively, you can use to keep food colder for longer and prevent spoilage. Remember to consume stored food within a reasonable timeframe.
For fruits, vegetables, and other perishables, the ideal temperature range is also 2 – 4 degrees Celsius.
Ideal temperature for perishables: 2 – 4°C
3 Adjusting the Refrigerator Temperature to Save Energy
If your refrigerator contains a moderate amount of food, you can set it to 2 or 3. You can increase it to 4 during hot weather.
Consider these tips for energy-efficient refrigerator use
To make your refrigerator operate more energy-efficiently, keep the following in mind:
-
Place the refrigerator in a well-ventilated area, away from heat-generating appliances like gas stoves or microwaves.
-
Regularly clean your refrigerator to maintain efficiency and prevent bacteria growth. Using is safe and effective for this purpose.
-
Adjust the temperature according to the weather and avoid keeping it at one setting for too long.
-
Avoid leaving the refrigerator door open for extended periods to prevent cold air escape.
-
Do not frequently turn the refrigerator on and off when not in use.
-
Do not overstuff your refrigerator with food.
Check out this video for tips on using your air conditioner without breaking the bank:
This article has provided you with guidance on adjusting your refrigerator temperature optimally and efficiently. We hope you found this information valuable.