The ideal temperature for a refrigerator is generally between 35°F (1.7°C) and 38°F (3.3°C). At this temperature range, perishable foods are kept safe from bacterial growth, while still maintaining their freshness and quality. The freezer compartment of the refrigerator should ideally be set at 0°F (-18°C) to keep frozen foods properly preserved.
Unlike air conditioners, refrigerators are designed to operate continuously. Turning off a refrigerator at night and then turning it back on in the morning is not recommended. Refrigerators are meant to maintain a consistent temperature to keep food safe and fresh. Switching them on and off frequently can lead to temperature fluctuations and compromise the quality and safety of the food stored inside.
Additionally, modern refrigerators are designed to be energy-efficient and are meant to run continuously with the help of a thermostat that controls the cooling cycle based on the temperature settings. Turning off a refrigerator and then turning it back on would likely result in increased energy consumption as the unit would have to work harder to cool down to the desired temperature again.
It's best to leave the refrigerator on all the time and make sure to set it to the appropriate temperature range based on the contents inside. Periodically, you can check and adjust the temperature settings if needed, but there is no need to turn it off and on like an air conditioner.