Every HunnyDone member has their oven checked annually for temperature accuracy. We believe a safe home is necessary for a stress free living environment

Refrigerators and freezers are unsung heroes in our homes. Silently and steadily, they preserve our food, ensure our ice cream remains frosty, and provide cool refreshments. However, their consistent hum in the background might mask a lurking issue: temperature discrepancies. This is why it's vital to check the temperature of these appliances annually. Here's a dive into the reasons and the how-to.

Why Temperature Checks are Crucial:

• Food Safety: At improper temperatures, harmful bacteria can flourish, leading to foodborne illnesses. The USDA recommends that the refrigerator temperature stays below 40°F (4°C) and the freezer at 0°F (-18°C) to prevent bacterial growth. The CDC estimates that more that 1 in 10 Americans experience foodborne illnesses annually; keeping food cooled properly will help to prevent this.

• Food Freshness: Even if not unsafe, food stored at incorrect temperatures might spoil faster. This results in wastage and affects the quality of meals.

• Energy Efficiency: Just like ovens, if your refrigerator or freezer isn't at the correct temperature, it might work harder to maintain it, consuming more energy and increasing bills.

Simple Steps to Check Your Appliance's Temperature

• Purchase in Reliable Thermometers: Purchase separate thermometers for both the refrigerator and freezer. They're inexpensive and can be found in most home goods or appliance stores or on Amazon. 

• Placement Matters: For the refrigerator, place the thermometer in the middle shelf, away from the cooling elements, and not in the door. For the freezer, you can place it between frozen packages.

• Wait and Record: After placement, wait for a couple of hours without frequently opening the appliance doors. After this period, note the temperature. It's wise to check at different times of the day and average the results for accuracy.

• Adjust if Necessary: If your readings are consistent but don't match the recommended temperatures, adjust the settings of your refrigerator or freezer accordingly.

What If There are Discrepancies?

• Check Seals and Doors: If your appliance isn't maintaining the correct temperature, it might be due to leaky seals. Ensure that the door seals are clean and free from food residue. They should also be pliable and not hard or cracked.

• Look for Blockages: Ensure that the vents in both compartments aren't blocked by food items. This can prevent even distribution of cold air.

• Consult a Technician: If simple fixes don't work, it might be a sign of a more complex issue. Consider hiring a technician to assess and fix the problem.

Make it a Habit

Mark a day on your calendar every year dedicated to checking the temperature of your refrigerator and freezer. This small step can have a significant impact on food safety, quality, and energy consumption. Consider coupling this with a deep clean of the appliance, ensuring it's in optimal shape inside out.  For HunnyDone members, this is a part of our annual inspection process!

Your refrigerator and freezer should be inspected and cleaned at least annually

In our busy lives, the consistent operation of appliances like refrigerators and freezers can be taken for granted. However, a simple annual temperature check can make a significant difference in ensuring they run efficiently and safely. Not only does this practice protect our health and enhance the quality of our food, but it also promotes energy efficiency, saving money in the long run. So, give your refrigerator and freezer a little attention – a small step that leads to fresher meals and peace of mind. For more information on appliance check ups, read our blog on Why to Check Your Oven Temperature Annually.