Hi,
I have a new Maytag frost-free refrigerator/ freezer. The freezer is set to its coldest setting, but the temperature seems to fluctuate from about -18 C (zero F) up to as high as -10 C (14 F).
Is this normal? I thought the fridge should keep it there within a couple of degrees, but it was -18 about 90 minutes ago and now it's at -13, probably on the way back to -10.
My understanding was that food should be kept at -18 or lower, but the fridge doesn't seem to be doing that. The freezer is only half full, but still ...
Phil
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- What's normal freezer temperature fluctuation?
Hi,
The *air* temperatures in both compartments will fluctuate. The refrigerator is designed to cool *food* which will maintain a more even overall temperature longer than just short fluctuations of air temperature will be able affect.
** I thought the fridge should keep it there within a couple of degrees **
It should be able to keep food at almost constant temperature, the compartment's *air* temperature will however vary with the running of the compressor and the periodic defrost cycles.
** My understanding was that food should be kept at -18 or lower, but the fridge doesn't seem to be doing that. **
The freezer should be capable of getting to below 0°F. If it isn't, the fridge may not be installed properly (no room around it for it to 'breath') or there may be a problem with it. In the latter case, I suggest you call to have it looked into.
This how Amana (whom is now owned by Maytag) suggests measuring the freezer compartment temperature:
---
To check the freezer temperature, place a thermometer that reads temperatures below zero in the center of the freezer, surrounded by frozen packages, or place the thermometer in a container of cooking oil in the freezer. Wait 5 to 8 hours, then check the thermometer reading. If the temperature is not within the 0°F to 2°F range, adjust the control up or down as needed, one number at a time, and repeat the temperature check after 4 to 6 hours.
----
JFYI
Dan O.
www.Appliance411.com/parts/?ref411=Maytag+Fridge
The Appliance Information Site
=D~~~~~~
The *air* temperatures in both compartments will fluctuate. The refrigerator is designed to cool *food* which will maintain a more even overall temperature longer than just short fluctuations of air temperature will be able affect.
** I thought the fridge should keep it there within a couple of degrees **
It should be able to keep food at almost constant temperature, the compartment's *air* temperature will however vary with the running of the compressor and the periodic defrost cycles.
** My understanding was that food should be kept at -18 or lower, but the fridge doesn't seem to be doing that. **
The freezer should be capable of getting to below 0°F. If it isn't, the fridge may not be installed properly (no room around it for it to 'breath') or there may be a problem with it. In the latter case, I suggest you call to have it looked into.
This how Amana (whom is now owned by Maytag) suggests measuring the freezer compartment temperature:
---
To check the freezer temperature, place a thermometer that reads temperatures below zero in the center of the freezer, surrounded by frozen packages, or place the thermometer in a container of cooking oil in the freezer. Wait 5 to 8 hours, then check the thermometer reading. If the temperature is not within the 0°F to 2°F range, adjust the control up or down as needed, one number at a time, and repeat the temperature check after 4 to 6 hours.
----
JFYI
Dan O.
www.Appliance411.com/parts/?ref411=Maytag+Fridge
The Appliance Information Site
=D~~~~~~
