Freezer - Measuring Temperature
Measuring the temperature can help determine if the freezer is working properly. Before getting started, remember that the frequency of door openings plays a large role in maintaining proper freezer temperatures. Taking an air temperature reading would not be accurate because air temperatures fluctuate any time the door is opened.
The recommended freezer temperature setting is 0 degrees F. When taking a temperature measurement in the freezer section:
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Use a bulb type or candy thermometer that is capable of measuring below zero degrees.
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Place the thermometer in between two packages of food that have been in the freezer for more than 24 hours on the middle shelf (or as close to the middle of the unit as possible) and leave it there for at least three minutes. Putting the thermometer in ice cream that has been in the freezer for at least 12 hours is the best way to check the temperature.
Remember to wait at least three minutes before reading the thermometer. If your unit is still set at factory default control settings (please see your owner’s manual for specific model settings):
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Upright and chest freezers should measure between -5 and +6 degrees Fahrenheit.
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The freezer section in a refrigerator should measure between -5 and +8 degrees Fahrenheit.