When refrigerators and freezers are turned off for an extended period of time, it is possible for the external surfaces, especially the metal components like the doors and sides, to become colder than the interior. This phenomenon occurs due to a combination of factors related to the insulation and thermal properties of the appliance.
Insulation: Refrigerators and freezers are designed with insulation materials to keep the cold air inside and the warm air outside. When the appliance is turned off, the insulation prevents the cold air from escaping rapidly. As a result, the inside of the appliance retains its cold temperature for a longer time compared to the outside environment.
Heat Transfer: When the refrigerator or freezer is running, the cooling process involves transferring heat from the interior to the exterior. The external surfaces of the appliance can dissipate this heat more effectively when it's running since the compressor is actively removing heat from the inside. However, when the unit is turned off, the heat transfer process is no longer happening, and the insulation slows down the transfer of cold air from inside to outside.
Ambient Temperature: The temperature of the surrounding environment also plays a role. If the room or area where the refrigerator or freezer is located is warmer than the interior of the appliance, the exterior might feel colder in comparison, even though the overall temperature inside the appliance is colder.
It's worth noting that the refrigerator or freezer will eventually start to warm up on the inside if it remains turned off for an extended period. The temperature difference between the interior and exterior will decrease as the cold air inside gradually dissipates.
If you encounter this situation and need to move the appliance or work on it, it's essential to take necessary precautions and wear gloves if the exterior is extremely cold to avoid any discomfort or injury.