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What are ideal fridge and freezer temperatures
Set your fridge to the right temperature to help food stay fresher for longer, reduce waste and keep everything safe to eat day after day.
A fridge freezer isn't the hardest appliance to figure out, but there's a few key things that you could be doing to make sure your food stays fresher for longer. That's why we've rounded up all the important information that will help you get the most out of your fridge freezer.
How a fridge works
A thermostat constantly checks the temperature inside the fridge. To to maintain the temperature, it circulates cool air inside while dumping any warm air out the back of the fridge. By staying at a constant low temperature, it slows the rate of bacteria growth, keeping your food fresher for longer.
So, what temperature should my fridge or freezer be?
Salad a little soggy? Ice lollies growing icebergs? Watch our quick video to find out the perfect temperature to keep your fridge and freezer compartments.
Check out our other tips for fridge freezers
How to defrost your fridge freezer and when to do it
A guide to defrosting your fridge freezer
How to clean a fridge freezer
Our handy guide to cleaning your fridge freezer and keeping food fresh
FAQs
- How does a fridge freezer thermostat work?
A thermostat works just like the thermostat for your heating. When your fridge reaches the correct temperature, it turns off the compressor (this is what circulates cool air). Alternatively, when it senses the fridge is too warm it switches the compressor on so the cooling process can continue.
