What is the normal temperature range of a refrigerator and freezer?

During the course of a home inspection, inspectors test a number of items within the kitchen. During the kitchen inspection, they will test the appliances, plumbing, electrical outlets, cabinetry, and countertops as well as many other items. One of the items inspected is the refrigerator and the freezer. 

The inspection of the refrigerator and freezer is a basic inspection for function and operation at the time of inspection. Inspectors check the temperatures and the water features but they do not make comments on superficial items involving the refrigerator. One of the benchmarks of a functioning refrigerator and freezer is to listen to the unit and measure the interior temperatures with a thermostat. 

If the temperatures measured at the time of inspection are within what is regarded as the acceptable range, it is understood that the refrigerator and freezer are functioning at the time of inspection. If the temperatures are not measured within the acceptable range, the inspector can infer that something is not functioning correctly. 

The failure to meet temperatures within the acceptable range could be something as simple as an adjustment on the thermostat or as complex as a failing compressor. If an issue is identified by the inspector, it may be recommended to contact a qualified appliance technician to troubleshoot the issues of the appliance.

What temperature should your refrigerator be?

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says the recommended refrigerator temperature is below 40° F.

For longevity of food storage, the ideal refrigerator temperature should be set a bit lower. It is recommended that your refrigerator temperature should stay between 35° and 38° F. A refrigerator in this temperature range is about as close as it can get to freezing without being too cold where the food will freeze. This will help keep bacteria from multiplying rapidly and keep food fresher longer.

What temperature should your freezer be?

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) says the recommended refrigerator temperature is below 0° F.

For longevity of food storage, the ideal freezer temperature should be set a bit lower. It is recommended that your refrigerator temperature should stay below 0° F. A refrigerator in this temperature range is about as close as it can get to freezing without being too cold where the food will freeze. This will help keep bacteria from multiplying rapidly and keep food fresher longer.

What should you do if your refrigerator and freezer is discovered outside of normal ranges?

1) Check the temperature settings - it is possible that the temperature setting have been adjusted to levels that are higher than they should be set.

2) Check the coils - it is possible that the coils are full of dirt and debris and this is limiting proper air flow to the system causing to work too hard and not achieve acceptable temperatures.

3) Check the seal - ensure that the doors are closing appropriately.

4) Call a technician - call a technician before it is too late and you have significant food spoilage.