The amount of time a fridge can be without electricity without affecting the food quality depends on several factors, including the temperature of the food before the power outage, the ambient room temperature, the insulation and efficiency of the fridge, and the type of food stored.
As a general guideline:
A well-stocked, full fridge will better retain its cold temperature compared to one that is mostly empty. The more items in the fridge, the longer it can maintain a safe temperature during a power outage.
If the fridge is kept in a cooler room with a lower ambient temperature, it will stay cold longer than in a warmer room.
An older or less efficient fridge may not hold the cold as effectively as a newer, energy-efficient model.
Foods with a lower water content, such as frozen meats, will hold their temperature longer than items with higher water content, like fruits and vegetables.
In most cases, a refrigerator will keep food safe for up to 4 hours without power, assuming the door remains closed. After 4 hours, the internal temperature of the fridge will begin to rise, potentially reaching temperatures that could compromise the safety and quality of perishable food items.
If you anticipate an extended power outage (e.g., during a severe storm or natural disaster), consider the following:
Keep the fridge and freezer doors closed as much as possible to retain the cold air.
Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature inside the fridge and freezer. Discard any perishable food items that have risen above 40°F (4°C) in temperature for more than 2 hours.
If you have access to ice or dry ice, you can place it in the fridge and freezer to help maintain lower temperatures for a longer period.
After the power is restored, check the temperature of the food to ensure it is still safe to consume. If in doubt, throw out any potentially hazardous food.
It's always a good idea to have a plan in place for emergencies and to be prepared with a well-stocked emergency food supply that doesn't require refrigeration, such as canned goods and non-perishable items.