If your refrigerator is not cooling properly check to make sure the controls are set properly. Below are some things you can quickly check. Look below for additional information on each topic. If the refrigerator is not cooling properly, check to make sure the refrigerator is turned on. Some refrigerators need to be manually turned back on after a power
outage or power surge. The refrigerator could also accidentally be turned off during routine cleaning. For Information on how to turn the refrigerator "Off" and "On", please see your Owner's Manual for specific information on your model. If you would like to download or view product literature for your appliance, please visit our
Manuals and Literature page. Some refrigerators are equipped with a "Showroom" or "Demo" mode feature. This mode is used when the refrigerator is on
display in a retail store or if you want to turn the cooling off and deactivates all other functions except interior lighting). Showroom mode can be used when going on vacation, see “Vacation and Moving Care” section for proper steps on leaving your refrigerator in this mode for long periods of time. Temperature controls are preset at the factory to the "mid setting" which should be correct for normal household use. The controls are set correctly when beverages are as cold as you would like.How to Check the Controls on your Whirlpool Refrigerator if not Cooling Properly
Is the refrigerator turned on?
Is the cooling function turned on?
Are the controls set correctly for
the surrounding conditions?
NOTE: Since control panels vary by refrigerator type, please see your Owner's Manual for specific information on your model. Below are some examples.
If you would like to download or view product literature for your appliance, please visit our Manuals and Literature page.
The ideal refrigerator temperature is about 37°F (3°C). However, a range of 33–40°F (0–4°C) is generally accepted as safe for most purposes. Temperatures below 33°F may freeze foods while temperatures above 40°F may lead to food spoilage.
The typical factory setting for Whirlpool® refrigerators is the recommended 37°F (3°C), but temperatures on all refrigerators may need to be set higher or lower depending on your fridge's environment and other factors. Read on to get more answers to your temperature questions.
Why is it important to keep food cold enough?
Chilling foods correctly helps them stay fresh and flavorful. It can also help prevent bacterial growth. Raising your refrigerator’s temperature above 40°F (4°C) could be harmful when storing dairy, eggs, meat and produce, which may naturally contain foodborne germs. You should also make sure to refrigerate any leftovers within two hours. Keeping foods stored within the right temperature range can also help prevent your refrigerator’s environment from mimicking freezer temperatures that cause fresh foods to ice over.
Is your refrigerator the right temperature?
Always start with the temperature recommended in your refrigerator manual. Wait for about 24 hours after any changes, then check inside. The temperature is right when:
Your juice and milk are as cold as you like them
Keeping your drinks on a lower shelf or towards the back of the refrigerator may help them stay colder. Learn more about the best way to organize and store food in your refrigerator. Some beverages, such as wine, may benefit from long term storage in a wine refrigerator or beverage center to keep them tasting their best.
There’s no ice on your food
If there is, your temperature might be set too low. Or, an emptier fridge could mean cold air sinks to the bottom rather than getting absorbed by items throughout. Learn more about how to stop food in your refrigerator from freezing.
Your fresh food doesn’t spoil early
When considering what temperature the refrigerator should be, remember that a higher temp can make your food spoil faster. Keeping your refrigerator cool enough helps preserve foods.
Usage tip:
Keep your fridge cool by getting in and out quickly, keeping it fully stocked and making sure that none of the air vents are blocked. Learn more about keeping temperatures consistent.
Is 45 degrees a safe temperature for a refrigerator?
Keeping your refrigerator at 45°F may not keep your food fresh. According to the USDA, bacteria grows most rapidly in temperatures ranging from 40°F to 140°F, and fresh foods can spoil if they’re exposed to temperatures above 40°F for more than two hours. If your refrigerator is strictly meant for soda and wine storage, then you can enjoy more flexibility with storage temperatures.
When should you adjust your fridge temp?
The environment around your fridge can affect how cold your refrigerator should be. If it’s in your garage or basement, you may need to adjust the temperature to account for humidity or outside temperatures. Only make small changes and wait at least 24 hours between changes to allow your refrigerator to adjust.
How do you change the fridge temperature?
It depends on your refrigerator. Some controls are on the inner sides of the fridge, while others are on the edge of the door or at the top center. Some refrigerators let you change temperature in degrees, while others have numbers for general temperature ranges. You might press the up and down arrow keys or turn a dial to adjust. Check your manual for the specifics and see the video below to learn more about adjusting refrigerator temperature.