Refrigerator - Set and Actual Temperature Settings

Refrigerators with electronic or LCD display controls show you the set temperature in degrees Fahrenheit. Some models allow you to change the temperature display to Celsius if you prefer. The display will show the temperature you have set, not the actual temperature inside the Refrigerator.

Defining "Set" Versus "Actual" Temperature

When you adjust the temperature to your preferences, the temperature you set on the controls is called the "Set" Temperature. This is not a reflection of the actual temperatures in the fresh food and freezer compartments. The display does not have the ability to show the real-time "Actual " Temperature.

• There is an exception to this. Some older Side-by-Side Refrigerators showed both "Set" and "Actual" Temperature. It would display the Actual Temperature when you woke up the controls, but then showed the Set Temperature while you changed the temperature. It would then show the Actual Temperature before going back to sleep. If the Refrigerator you own has this capability, it will be shown in the Owner's Manual for your specific model.

Visit our GE Appliances Video Gallery for short videos on setting the temperature controls and display types on specific style Refrigerators, or see our Refrigerator - Adjusting Temperature Controls article.

Smart Refrigerator Temperature Settings in the SmartHQ™ App

With Smart Refrigerators connected to the SmartHQ App, you can change the fresh food and freezer temperature, as well as get alerts when the temperature is too high or low, in the App. Like the Refrigerator itself, the SmartHQ App will only show the Set Temperature. Since the SmartHQ App will alert you when the temperature has drastically changed, you never need to worry that the Refrigerator is not cooling properly.

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