What Temperature Should a Fridge Be?

Keeping your fridge and freezer at the right temperature is essential for food safety, freshness, and flavour. But what’s the correct setting, how do you check it, and what should you do if things warm up?

Ideal Fridge and Freezer Temperatures

The ideal fridge temperature is 3–5 °C (37–41 °F).

The ideal freezer temperature is -18 °C (0 °F) or colder.

In the UK, food businesses are legally required to keep fridges below 8 °C and freezers at -18 °C or below. At home, aim for 3–5 °C for your fridge to maximise shelf life and keep food safe.

What Do the Fridge Temperature Settings 1-5 Mean?

The numbers on a fridge dial control power, not exact temperatures. One is the warmest setting and five is the coldest. Every fridge is different, so the best way to set yours is to use a fridge thermometer and adjust until the temperature is in the safe range. Allow up to 24 hours for changes to take effect.

How to Measure Fridge and Freezer Temperatures

Fridge/Freezer Thermometer

Pros: Quick, always visible, simple to use.

Cons: Reads air temperature, which changes faster than food temperature.

Tip: Place on the middle shelf or drawer for the most balanced reading.

Learn more about fridge/freezer thermometers.

Food thermometer

Pros: Most accurate way to check the actual temperature of food.

Cons: Slower and less effective for frozen food.

Tip: Probe items such as cheese or butter. For frozen food, insert the probe between two bags rather than boxes.

Infrared Thermometer

Pros: Instant surface checks.

Cons: Only measures surface temperatures such as packaging, jars or bags.

Tip: Avoid wet or frosty surfaces. Take several readings for accuracy.

What If  Your Fridge Is Too Warm?

If food has been above 8 °C for more than two hours, it should be thrown away. Harmful bacteria thrive in the danger zone of 8–63 °C. If you are unsure how long it has been at this temperature, it is safer to discard it.

What If Your Freezer Is Too Warm?

If food is still partially frozen and has ice crystals, it is safe to refreeze or cook immediately. If completely thawed but still below 8 °C, it should be cooked or refrigerated and used soon.

FAQs

Is 7 °C too warm for a fridge?

Yes. While still below the legal UK limit of 8 °C, food will last longer and stay safer at 3–5 °C.

How often should I check my fridge temperature?

At home, once a week is usually enough. For food businesses, daily checks are recommended.

Can I refreeze food that has thawed in the fridge?

If food still has ice crystals, it is safe to refreeze. If completely thawed but cold (below 8 °C), cook before refreezing.

Do fridge thermometers work better than dials?

Yes. Fridge dials are not accurate, so using a thermometer gives you the actual temperature and helps you adjust with confidence.

Summary

• The best fridge temperature is 3–5 °C and the best freezer temperature is -18 °C or colder.
• Fridge thermometers are the simplest way to monitor your appliance, food thermometers give the most accurate check of your food, and infrared thermometers provide quick surface readings.
• If your food has been above 8 °C for more than two hours, it should be discarded.

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