Tucked away inside your refrigerator is a small dial or digital control that regulates its internal temperature. Often overlooked, this setting plays a bigger role than you might think in your energy usage—and your monthly utility bill.
Why Fridge Settings Matter
Most refrigerators come pre-set to a colder-than-necessary temperature, often between 6 and 7 on a typical dial. Many people assume the coldest setting is best for food safety, but that’s not always true.
Experts say that a fridge temperature of about 37–40°F (3–4°C) is ideal for keeping food fresh while avoiding excess energy use. If your fridge is much colder than that, it could be working harder than it needs to—using more electricity and shortening the life of the appliance.
