Keeping your fridge at the right temperature isn’t just a suggestion; it’s essential for a healthy fridge. It’s the difference between food staying fresh or spoiling too soon, between a clean, efficient kitchen and a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. But it’s surprisingly easy to get it wrong.
This guide will show you how to keep your fridge at the correct temperature, whether you’re running a busy commercial kitchen or just trying to keep your groceries fresh at home.
The Correct Fridge Temperature
So, what temperature should a fridge be? According to the UK’s Food Standards Agency (FSA), the recommended temperature is between 0°C and 5°C. This keeps your food fresh without risking ice buildup. Too warm, and you invite the growth of harmful bacteria. Too cold, and you end up with frozen lettuce and wasted food.
Why The Correct Fridge Temperature Matters
Your fridge is more than just a box with shelves. It’s a tool for preserving food quality, maintaining food freshness, and preventing food waste. If it’s too warm, harmful bacteria can thrive, especially in food like dairy, meat, and leftovers. If it’s too cold, fresh produce can freeze, losing texture, flavour, and nutrients. This is especially important for commercial kitchens where food safety regulations must be met.
Commercial vs. Domestic: What’s the difference when it comes to Fridge Temperatures?
- Commercial Fridges: Used in restaurants, cafes, and other businesses, these fridges are opened frequently, making it harder to maintain a consistent temperature. The Food Standards Agency recommends checking fridge freezer temperatures at least once a day, ideally more frequently, especially for high-traffic kitchens.
- Domestic Fridges: Less frequently opened but still prone to temperature fluctuations if overfilled or poorly maintained. Aim to check the temperature weekly, and consider a fridge thermometer for extra accuracy.
Common Mistakes People Make With Fridge Temperature
Even with the best intentions, it’s easy to make mistakes when managing your fridge’s temperature. Whether you’re running a bustling commercial kitchen or simply trying to keep your weekly groceries fresh, small errors can have big consequences. Let’s look at the most common mistakes and how to avoid them.
- Overpacking the Fridge: Whether it’s a home fridge full of groceries or a commercial fridge packed for a busy service, airflow is crucial. A crowded fridge blocks cool air circulation, causing warm spots.
- Incorrect Temperature Settings: Fridge dials can be bumped or adjusted accidentally. Always double-check your settings. Remember, it takes 24 hours for your fridge to fully adjust to any changes you make.
- Worn-Out Door Seals: If your fridge door isn’t sealing properly, it won’t maintain the right temperature. For businesses, this is even more critical as it can lead to food safety violations.
- Placing Hot Food Inside: This raises the internal temperature. In commercial settings, always let food cool to room temperature before refrigerating. At home, use shallow containers for faster cooling.
How to Set Your Fridge Temperature Correctly
- Digital Controls: Most modern fridges have a digital display. Set the temperature between 0°C and 5°C.
- Manual Dials: For older models, use the manual dial and then a thermometer to ensure you’re in the safe range.
- Commercial Kitchens: Use a dedicated thermometer and log temperatures at least once a day.
- Quick Check: If you don’t have a built-in temperature readout, a simple thermometer placed in the centre of the fridge works just as well.
How to Check Your Fridge’s Temperature
- Use a Fridge Thermometer: Place it in the centre for an accurate reading.
- Check Regularly: Commercial kitchens should check and record temperatures using documentation such as SC2 refrigeration records at least once daily, sometimes more often dependent on the type of fridge and food stored. At home, aim for once a week.
- Watch for Warning Signs: Condensation, ice buildup, or food in the fridge spoiling too quickly can all mean your temperature is off.
When It’s Time for a New Seal
If your fridge isn’t maintaining the right temperature, the door seal could be the culprit. This is especially true in busy commercial settings where the doors are constantly being opened. Sometimes, even a recently replaced seal might not have been installed correctly, or it could just need a bit of maintenance, like cleaning away debris form the seal that’s causing issues.
If you’ve ruled out a faulty fridge and still aren’t having any luck, take a look at our blog to find out when it might be time to replace your fridge seals.
Conclusion
Getting the temperature right isn’t a one-time task. Regular checks are key, especially in commercial settings where food safety is critical. Make sure your seals are intact, don’t overcrowd your fridge, and always allow time for it to adjust after any changes.
If you’re struggling to keep your fridge at the correct temperature or suspect your seals are worn, we’re here to help. Explore our range of branded fridge seals for popular names like Polar, Williams, and Foster, as well as our bespoke gaskets for a perfect fit. Not sure what you need? Just get in touch with our team. Whether you need a replacement seal, troubleshooting tips, or expert advice, we’ve got you covered.
FAQs about Fridge Temperature
What temperature should a freezer be?
Freezers should be set to -18°C for safe freezing.
Can a fridge be too cold?
Yes, anything below 0°C risks freezing fresh food.
How often should I check my fridge temperature?
For commercial fridges, at least once daily, but more frequently for high-traffic kitchens. For home fridges, once a week is ideal.
