A refrigerator, like any other appliance that requires electricity to function, cannot run without a power source. Once the electricity supply is disconnected or the power goes out, the refrigerator will stop running immediately.
The duration for which a refrigerator can keep food cold without electricity depends on several factors, such as:
Ambient temperature: In a cooler environment, a well-insulated refrigerator can maintain its internal temperature for a longer time compared to a hot environment.
Insulation and door seal: The quality of insulation and the effectiveness of the door seal can impact how quickly the refrigerator's interior warms up.
Contents and storage: A fully stocked refrigerator will retain cold better than an empty one, as the items inside help maintain a consistent temperature.
Frequency of opening: Every time the refrigerator door is opened, warm air enters, making it more difficult for the fridge to maintain a cold temperature.
In general, when the power goes out, a refrigerator can keep food cold for about 4 to 6 hours if it remains closed. However, this time frame can vary, and perishable foods may begin to spoil if the power outage lasts longer than a few hours. To extend the cooling time, you can place bags of ice or frozen gel packs inside the refrigerator or transfer perishable items to a cooler with ice.
In case of a prolonged power outage or situations where electricity may not be available for an extended period, it's essential to consume perishable foods first and discard any items that may have spoiled due to temperature fluctuations.