Most people don’t think twice about the little dial or digital button inside their fridge—but that small control can make a big difference in both energy use and your electricity bill. Leaving your refrigerator on the wrong setting wastes energy, shortens your appliance’s life, and costs households millions every year.
The Ideal Temperatures
- Fridge: 37°F–40°F (3°C–4°C)
- Freezer: 0°F (-18°C)
These settings keep food safe, prevent spoilage, and stop delicate items from freezing unnecessarily. Anything colder, and you’re just burning extra electricity.
Seasonal Adjustments
- Spring/Fall: Check with a thermometer; dial back if it’s running too cold.
- Summer: Set closer to 37°F; don’t overload the fridge, and keep cold items near the back.
- Winter: Watch for overcooling—if milk or lettuce freezes, raise the temp slightly.
Why It Matters
Refrigerators that run too cold use more electricity because the compressor works harder. Adjusting to the recommended settings can cut your energy use by up to 10%, saving the average household $100 or more per year. Multiply that across millions of homes, and the impact is huge.
Extra Energy-Saving Tips
- Use an appliance thermometer—factory dials aren’t always accurate.
- Don’t judge settings by “colder” or “coldest”—check the actual temperature.
- After making changes, wait 24 hours to see the effect.
- Clean coils and keep vents clear to avoid unnecessary strain on the fridge.
Final Word
That overlooked temperature control button in your fridge is more powerful than you think. With just a small adjustment, you can save money, reduce energy waste, and help your appliance last longer. Sometimes, the simplest tweaks at home bring the biggest rewards.
