How to set the refrigerator temperature?

March 21, 2025

Setting the refrigerator temperature correctly is essential to ensure that products retain their nutritional value for a long time, do not spoil, and that the refrigerator uses energy as efficiently as possible.

Food stored at the wrong temperature can quickly lose its flavor and healthiness, or, conversely, freeze, which is also undesirable.

First of all, we would like to note that these tips are general and usually common to all modern refrigerators, although you can go to our category called Refrigerators and view each model.

We offer a simple graphic image that will help you set the temperature, and below we will discuss all this in more detail.

How to set the refrigerator temperature?

1. Find the temperature regulator

You should find a temperature control knob or digital panel located inside the refrigerator. This regulator is usually located on the wall of the refrigerator — on the top, side, or back.

Some models will use numbers (e.g. 1 to 5 or 1 to 7), while others have a digital display that directly displays the temperature in Celsius (°C).

2. Standard temperature for refrigerator and freezer

The optimal temperature for a refrigerator is between +3°C and +5°C. This temperature is enough to keep the product cool but not frozen.

For the freezer , -18°C is recommended. In such conditions, frozen products retain their properties for a long time.

3. How to deal with digital models

If your refrigerator has a digital panel, then adjusting the temperature is very easy. The display usually shows the temperature of both chambers (refrigerator and freezer).

Press the appropriate buttons (increase/decrease) and set the temperature within the following range:

Refrigerator: +3°C or +4°C
Freezer: -18°C

4. Temperature adjustment for mechanical models (with numbers from 1 to 7)

If there is only a rotating wheel on the refrigerator and it is marked with numbers from 1 to 7 (sometimes from 1 to 5), then you should know the following principle:

1-2 – less cold, warmer temperature
3-4 – average, optimal temperature
5-7 – Very cold

Medium temperature (4 or its equivalent) is the most appropriate option for everyday use.

Keep in mind: the higher the number, the colder the temperature the refrigerator provides.

5. Don't overload the refrigerator.

Air circulation in a refrigerator is essential for even temperature distribution. If it is too crowded with products, cold air cannot move freely, which can cause products to spoil or become too cold in some areas.

Always try to leave space between shelves and along walls.

6. Use a thermometer if desired.

If you want precise control, you can purchase a special refrigerator thermometer and place it in the refrigerator. It will show you the actual temperature inside the chamber and allow you to adjust the refrigerator more precisely.

Additional tips

In the summer, on very hot days, you can set the refrigerator to a slightly colder setting (for example, +3°C for a digital model, 5 or 6 for a mechanical one).

If you have just disconnected the power to the refrigerator, wait a few hours for the temperature to stabilize.

When placing new produce in the refrigerator, especially in large quantities, the temperature will temporarily rise. Don't be alarmed—it will drop back to a lower level within a few hours.

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