If your freezer is currently at 1-2 °F and everything inside still looks and feels frozen solid, it is likely that the food is still safe to consume. Freezers are designed to maintain temperatures well below the freezing point, and at 1-2 °F, the food should remain frozen and safe to eat for an extended period.
Food safety guidelines suggest that frozen food should be kept at 0 °F or below for optimal storage. However, minor temperature fluctuations, like in your case, are not uncommon and should not immediately render the food unsafe, especially if it is still frozen solid.
Here are some steps you can take to ensure the safety of your frozen food:
Avoid Opening the Freezer: Try to minimize opening the freezer door to prevent warm air from entering and potentially affecting the temperature inside.
Monitor Temperature: If possible, keep an eye on the temperature inside the freezer to ensure it stays as close to 0 °F as possible.
Use a Thermometer: If you have a refrigerator/freezer thermometer, place it inside the freezer to get a more accurate reading of the temperature.
Insulate: If the freezer is not keeping a stable temperature, you can try to insulate it by placing blankets or towels around it to help maintain the cold.
Prioritize Consumption: If the repair is going to take several days, consider consuming the most perishable items first, if you need to use them before the repair.
Refrain from Adding More Food: To prevent overloading the freezer and to maintain the cold, avoid adding large quantities of new food until the repair is done.
Once the freezer is repaired and back to the proper temperature, you can safely return any remaining frozen food back to the freezer.
If you notice any thawing or softening of the frozen food, or if you observe any signs of spoilage such as foul odors or discoloration, it's best to discard those items.
Remember, when in doubt about the safety of frozen food, it's always better to prioritize food safety and dispose of any items you are uncertain about.