Fridge/freezer temp swings what is normal?

After worrying and trying all sorts of things to stabilize the temps in our Norcold, I finally realized there is a big difference between ambient air temps in the frig and the temp of foods.

I had used at least 3 thermometers. One was an electronic one with a remote monitor like the OP mentions. They all only measured air temp and varied all over the place.

Finally I tried putting a thermometer in a bottle of water. Guess what? It doesn't vary.

It is normal for the air in one of these frig's to vary, not only due to opening the door, but the auto defrosting that takes place every couple of days. As long as this is just temporary, it isn't going to affect the temp of the food very much.

And if you have to park with the refer broadside to the sun in the summer, you'll most likely see even a larger temperature swing after the sun has been directly on it for several hours in the afternoon.

Bill

It also makes a huge difference in how much is packed in there. The more it's loaded the less temp swing will be seen since it's unlikely you will change the temp of that mass unless the door is left open.

Hi,

While the freezer is normally running say -2 to +8, when you open the door, the temp sensor might reach 17 or even 30, depending on where it is located. If you get a ice cube tray, and put the sensor into the tray while the ice is still not frozen, then it will read a stable temp all day and night, no matter how long the door is open.

The refrigerator will normally turn on at say 37F and shut off around 34 to prevent freezing. As long as it is below 41F that is normal and OK by the health department.

Good luck,

Fred.

What fridge?

What ambient air temps?

Food section is doing quite well. Completely within proper temp ranges

Freeze section.......too high of temp.
How much door opening going on with freezer section?
Amount of time door open......looking for something, rearrange items, moving items OR just opening getting item then closing????