The Inside Temperature of Freezers

Freezers are designed for long-term storage of food. Bacteria grows best in temperatures ranging from 40 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Freezer temperatures inactivate bacteria, yeast and mold growth. For storage, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration requires that food must be frozen solid, but does not set a specific temperature.

Ideal Temperature

• The recommended freezer temperature is 0 degrees Fahrenheit. It may dip slightly below 0 but should not exceed 5 degrees. This temperature is necessary for long-term food storage.

Types of Freezers

• Freestanding upright or chest freezers maintain the necessary 0 degree temperature. A freezer attached to a refrigerator with a separate door may reach 0 degrees. But often the temperature is above the recommended level. A freezer within a refrigerator will not have a 0 degree temperature and it is recommended food be stored in that type of freezer for only a week.

Measuring Temperatures

• Place an accurate freezer thermometer inside the freezer and check regularly. If the freezer does not maintain a 0 degree temperature, use it only for short-term food storage. In a power outage, a full freezer should retain cold temperatures for 2 days if the door is not opened. A half-full freezer will maintain a freezing temperature for about 1 day.