Side-by-Side Refrigerator - Too Cold, Freezing Food

If foods like fruits and vegetables in the Refrigerator section are freezing, this can be caused by several factors. Below are suggestions to help with this concern.
 

Diagnosing Freezing Food in the Fresh Food Section of a Refrigerator

Checking the Control Settings

  • First, check the temperature controls. They should be set at "C" and "5" or "5" and "5". For models that allow the temperature setting to be set in degrees, the recommended temperature settings are 0 degrees Fahrenheit for the Freezer and 37 degrees Fahrenheit for the Fresh Food sections. The proper Fresh Food temperature range is between 37 and 42 degrees Fahrenheit. The Freezer should be between 0 and 8 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • You can view information about adjusting Refrigerator temperature controls in our Refrigerator - Adjusting Temperature Controls article.

Evaluating Food Placement

  • If food in the bottom of the Refrigerator section is freezing, this could be caused by the Refrigerator not having enough food to absorb the cold air.
  • If food in the door is freezing, move the door bins up or down so they are one notch away from Freezer vents. The fresh food control should be at the normal setting of 5 or 37 degrees.
  • If food is freezing in the produce (fruits and vegetables) or meat/deli pan, it may be that the temperature controls are set too cold. Since cold air naturally falls, the produce and meat/deli pans can get too cold if the Refrigerator is not running long enough to maintain good air circulation. Adjust both controls warmer one setting or degree.
  • Cold air coming into the Fresh Food section originates in the Freezer. On many models the damper (air vent) is on the left side wall, which can be the coldest spot in the Fresh Food area. Avoid placing delicate items that freeze easily on this side of the top shelf.

Repair Service Recommended

If none of these steps corrects the concern with food freezing, service may be required. For service, please schedule a repair appointment with GE Appliances Factory Service.