As the UK experiences a heatwave with temperatures soaring to 35°C, specialists are encouraging Britons to inspect their fridges to ensure they are functioning properly. The appliance works harder in high temperatures to maintain stable internal conditions, increasing the risk of food spoilage.
Why Your Fridge Struggles in a Heatwave
Matthew Glynn, a Hisense appliance specialist, explained: "When temperatures rise during a heatwave, your fridge has to work harder to keep the inside temperature stable because the surrounding air is warmer. The surrounding warmer air also means the internal temperature of your fridge is likely to warm up quicker when the door is open, meaning food can spoil much more easily."
Recommended Temperature Adjustments
To address this, Glynn recommends temporarily reducing the fridge's temperature setting. "I'd recommend dropping it towards the colder end of its range, around 2°C if your appliance allows. This gives your fridge more capacity to cope with the warmer ambient temperature and helps prevent the internal temperature from creeping up when the door is opened."
Official guidance advises maintaining fridges between 0°C and 5°C. If uncertain, verify the temperature with a fridge thermometer. Failure to keep the fridge cool enough can increase the likelihood of food going off.
Tips to Help Your Fridge Cope
Beyond adjusting the temperature, several practices can prevent food spoilage:
- Keep the fridge door shut whenever possible. Each opening lets warm air in and cold air out, forcing the appliance to work harder.
- Avoid overcrowding. Ensure adequate space for cold air to flow freely and maintain the proper temperature.
- Allow food to cool before placing leftovers in the fridge, as hot food raises the internal temperature.
- Arrange shelves properly to encourage air movement, prevent overfilling, and ensure easy access to perishable items.
By following these steps, Britons can help their fridges cope with the heatwave and keep food safe.
