Did you know there’s a small feature inside your refrigerator that could be quietly draining energy and money from your home every month? It’s not some high-tech component or a complex part you need to call a technician for. It’s simply the temperature control setting—a button or dial many homeowners ignore or don’t think much about. While it might seem like a minor detail, this simple control plays a major role in your refrigerator’s performance and energy usage. By taking just a few moments to adjust it correctly, you can significantly improve efficiency, preserve your food better, and even cut down your energy bill.

What the Temperature Control Actually Does
The temperature control inside your fridge regulates the internal climate. Whether your unit uses a manual dial or a digital interface, this setting controls how cold the fridge and freezer compartments get. The problem? Many people leave it on the factory default without realizing that it might not be ideal for their specific conditions. This oversight can lead to the fridge working harder than necessary—or not hard enough—resulting in spoiled food or wasted energy.

Why Proper Temperature Matters
Having the right temperature isn’t just about keeping milk from going sour or ice cream from melting. It’s also about safety and energy efficiency. When your fridge is too warm, bacteria can grow, increasing the risk of foodborne illness. Too cold, and you could damage delicate items like fruits and vegetables, or create unnecessary freezer burn. Plus, a fridge that’s colder than it needs to be uses more electricity. That means higher bills and more strain on the appliance’s motor, reducing its lifespan.

So, What’s the Magic Number?
Experts recommend setting your refrigerator temperature between 37°F and 40°F. This range slows bacterial growth while keeping food fresh and safe. For the freezer, aim for 0°F to keep everything properly frozen. If you’re relying on vague dials labeled “cold” or “coldest,” you’re better off using an appliance thermometer to double-check that the internal temperature is within range.

Adjusting for the Seasons
The optimal setting can actually vary depending on the time of year and where your fridge is located in your home. Here’s how to stay on top of seasonal adjustments:

Spring & Fall: Minor Tweaks
These in-between seasons usually don’t require major changes. The ambient temperature in your kitchen is moderate, and your fridge won’t have to work too hard. Still, it’s worth checking your thermometer and making small adjustments if necessary. If your fridge is colder than needed, easing off the setting can save power.

Summer: Time to Cool Down
Summer heat makes your fridge work overtime, especially with frequent door openings during family BBQs or when grabbing a cold drink.
Pro Tips:

• Lower your fridge setting closer to 37°F.

• Don’t overfill the fridge—it needs airflow to maintain an even temperature.

• Store cold items like leftovers and drinks near the back where it stays coolest.

Winter: Watch for Freezing Inside the Fridge
If your fridge is in a colder area like a garage or basement, outside temperatures can mess with how the appliance functions. You might find your lettuce freezing or milk forming ice crystals.
What to Do:

• Adjust the setting toward 40°F if items are freezing.

• Double-check the freezer—if the compressor isn’t running often, the temperature may rise above 0°F.

How These Small Tweaks Save You Money
Setting your fridge and freezer to the ideal temperature range reduces unnecessary energy use. When it’s set too cold, your appliance has to work harder to maintain that temperature, which drives up your electricity bill. According to energy experts, adjusting these settings properly can cut a home’s energy usage by up to 10%. For the average household, that’s about $100 in savings per year. Multiply that by millions of households across the country, and we’re talking about potentially billions of dollars in savings—and a lot less environmental impact.

Extra Ways to Boost Energy Efficiency

• Use a Standalone Thermometer: Built-in displays aren’t always accurate. A separate appliance thermometer helps you verify the true internal temperature.

• Understand the Dial: Don’t assume “7” means best. These numbers vary by model, and without context, they’re just guesses.

• Give It Time: After changing the setting, wait at least 24 hours before checking the results.

• Keep It Clean: Dusty condenser coils or blocked vents can make your fridge work harder than it needs to. Make sure airflow isn’t obstructed inside and outside the unit.

The Bottom Line: A Small Step, Big Results
Tucked away inside your fridge, that little temperature control button or dial might not seem like much. But it holds the power to improve food safety, lower your utility bills, and extend your appliance’s life—all without a single repair or costly upgrade. It’s a perfect example of how a small change can lead to a big impact. So the next time you’re restocking groceries, take a minute to check your fridge and freezer temperatures. That small act could pay off in more ways than you imagined.