Many people have been surprised to learn the true meaning behind the numbers on fridge dials, as they do not actually correspond to temperature settings. Fridge freezers and standalone refrigerators play a crucial role in preserving perishable items like milk, meat, and vegetables. However, understanding how to correctly set the temperature is key to keeping your food fresh. Inside the fridge, usually near the top right door hinge, there is a small white dial used for adjusting the temperature. Contrary to popular belief, the numbers on the dial do not represent degrees Celsius. Reddit users have clarified that these numbers indicate the intensity of the cooling function, with higher numbers indicating a stronger chilling effect.
One Reddit user explained, “Higher is colder… the numbers on the fridge’s temperature dial indicate refrigerant power. The higher the number goes the colder the fridge will maintain. Setting it to 5 will make your fridge the coldest.” Misinterpreting the dial settings could result in food spoiling more quickly or excessive ice build-up at the back of the fridge. While there are a few exceptions where some fridge models do use degrees Celsius, a simple trick can help you determine how your specific fridge operates. By turning the dial in either direction until you hear the compressor (the black motor at the back) turning on or off, you can gauge whether you are adjusting the temperature hotter or cooler.
It may sound complicated, but essentially, if the compressor turns on, you are making the fridge cooler, and if it turns off, you are making it warmer. This method can help you understand the correct setting for your fridge and avoid potential food storage issues. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your fridge is set to the right temperature to keep your food fresh for longer periods.
(Source: Wales Online)