John Myers
The recommended, optimal refrigerator temperature is between 5º C and 8º C. This means that you comply with the guidelines and recommendations of the European Union (5º C) and the temperature of 8º C recommended in Germany (for the middle section of the refrigerator). The question that remains is how to set the device to the ideal refrigerator temperature. Hitting this ideal value and not cooling too much can help you save electricity and money; because every degree Celsius that the refrigerator is set too cool means an increase in consumption of around 5 percent. Most models have a dial that allows you to set the fridge temperature from levels 1 to 7. On some models, the scale only goes from 1 to 5. Normally, levels 1 or 2 are sufficient for the perfect refrigerator temperature, in summer you can regulate to 3 to 4 to counteract the additional heat from outside. It’s coldest in the rear area because that’s where the cooling unit is located. The warmest area is at the refrigerator door. As soon as ice forms in the refrigerator, performance drops and power consumption increases; therefore regular defrosting is good for the refrigerator’s energy balance. Likewise, a filled fridge keeps the cold better than an empty one, since the food inside binds the cold. This means that not too much cold air escapes when the refrigerator is opened. since the cooling unit is located there. The warmest area is at the refrigerator door. As soon as ice forms in the refrigerator, performance drops and power consumption increases; therefore regular defrosting is good for the refrigerator’s energy balance. Likewise, a filled fridge keeps the cold better than an empty one, since the food inside binds the cold. This means that not too much cold air escapes when the refrigerator is opened. since the cooling unit is located there. The warmest area is at the refrigerator door. As soon as ice forms in the refrigerator, performance drops and power consumption increases; therefore regular defrosting is good for the refrigerator’s energy balance. Likewise, a filled fridge keeps the cold better than an empty one, since the food inside binds the cold. This means that not too much cold air escapes when the refrigerator is opened.
Finding the right refrigerator temperature and knowing the zones
The reference value for the perfect refrigerator temperature always refers to the middle compartment. This is crucial because each device is divided into different temperature zones. These are then in turn suitable for different foods – and this is how the division works:
- The upper compartment should be around 8ºC. This is a great way to store leftover food and cheese.
- The middle compartment serves as a guide for the correct refrigerator temperature. Adjust it to 5 to 7º C accordingly. It is therefore suitable as a storage location for dairy products such as yoghurt and milk.
- The temperatures are lowest (around 2º C) in the bottom compartment (above the glass shelf of the crisper). So store food there that needs it particularly cold, such as meat and fish.
- The crisper should be around 8ºC. For example, it is very suitable for broccoli or strawberries. By the way, you can find out how long strawberries can be kept in the fridge in our expert knowledge. In it we will also tell you the answer to the question: ” Do you have to store eggs in the fridge? “
If your fridge doesn’t have a thermometer, you can measure the temperature yourself. Simply place a glass of water in the middle compartment. 24 hours later, take it out and dip a thermometer in it. You can see whether you have reached the ideal refrigerator temperature.
