How to Save on Energy Costs – Check Refrigerator Temperature
When is the last time you actually checked the temperature of your refrigerator?
If you’re like most people, you probably set the temperature a long time ago and haven’t checked it recently. It’s possible the settings could have been accidentally adjusted in the past and today is a great opportunity for you to make sure you aren’t wasting too much energy.
According to WE Energies, set the refrigerator temperature between 36° F and 42° F. Set the freezer control so the temperature is between -5° F and +6° F. A small thermometer placed in the refrigerator or freezer will help you set it correctly.
According to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, 40° F or lower is the correct refrigerator temperature to slow bacterial growth and maintain quality of your food. Their recommendation of 0° F for the correct freezer temperature also falls within the range recommended by WE Energies. At 0° F bacterial growth on food will be stopped. Of course, the quality of your food will decrease the longer you leave your food frozen.
Conserving energy and keeping your food safe is a balancing act. If you do change your refrigerator temperature today, be sure to monitor the quality of your food over the next week or two to make sure your settings are proper. Also, use a thermometer to help you find the correct temperature that works for your needs.
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