Even though refrigerators are one of the most used home appliances in the kitchen, they don’t always receive proper attention to ensure the right temperature. Aside from the usual storage and retrieval of food in refrigerators and freezers, the only time they draw attention is when it breaks down or when the power goes out.
While it is important to remember the 40°F temperature, it is also advisable not to let the appliance’s temperature reach that number. Keeping the temperature close at around 35-37°F is better as it could go higher than the 40°F threshold. Although it can be dangerous if the temperature goes lower, the 40°F threshold in a regular refrigerators will likely freeze the stored liquid contents
Like any other appliance, refrigerators and freezers have various differences and unique functions depending on their models. Some high-end fridges have a temperature readout but not all. Actually the addition of a built-in temperature readout is an important feature since it allows constant monitoring if your ref is still working at the right temperature. Otherwise, putting a thermometer inside is the next best alternative .
What to Do to Maintain the Right Refrigerator Temperature
There are several reasons why the temperature of your appliance might feel a bit off, but no worries as there are definitely easy fixes that even you can do.
An important factor of maintaining the right refrigerator temperature is to make sure that the seal on the doors of the appliance are working right.
Malfunctioning door gaskets let the cool air inside the fridge leak out; especially if the tight, magnetic seal is no longer working.
To test whether your gaskets are actually working, try inserting a dollar bill between the door and the fridge, leaving some of the dollar sticking out. Afterwards, try to yank out the bill and if it comes off with ease, it simply means the seal is in need of a replacement or repair.
Another thing to mind about your refrigerator is to not overstuff it. Moreover, organizing the things you put inside will prevent the disruption of the airflow inside the appliance. It’s also important to air vents located at the side or back wall to ensure nothing is blocking the air passages,
Knowing how temperature keeps the food safe to eat is also very important, as having awareness of how certain factors can microbes increase rapidly. That is one thing to avoid in relation to food storage since food-borne bacteria can cause illnesses,
Importance of Cold Storage Temperatures
Food stored in a freezer at a temperature of 0°F is safe as it slows the movement of molecules that prevent bacteria from leaving a dormant stage. Once the frozen food is thawed, the bacteria will become active again and multiply in numbers that can cause foodborne illnesses. Thawed food must be treated the same way fresh foods are treated since bacteria grow at the same rate.
Unlike freezers, temperature in fridges will only do so much in slowing down the spoiling process of perishable foods, even with a 40°F threshold. Good practices to counter against foodborne illnesses are safe food-handling practices which include proper handling, cooking, and storing of food at safe temperatures.
Actually foodborne bacteria are present everywhere and are capable of multiplying rapidly. That is why cold food storage is necessary even with leftovers. When it comes to storing leftovers, the rule is to coll them first but should be refrigerated within a period of two hours of staying under a room temperature.
If you are currently looking for quality refrigerators similar to the ones used in Korean households, you can find a list of the Top 7 Korean brands at this website: