How Long Will Refrigerated Food Last During a Power Outage?

Whether it is caused by a storm, downed power line, or unpaid electricity bill, power outages are something we all must face. Besides finding ways to keep entertained and see in the dark without lights, one of the biggest challenges we face when the power goes out is keeping our food fresh.

According to Angie's List, food in your refrigerator will typically only stay cold for about 4-6 hours before it is no longer safe for consumption. Food in the freezer, on the other hand can last up to 2 days without power.

Next time your power goes out, use these tips to avoid eating spoiled food and getting sick.

• Keep the door closed. Even when your refrigerator is on, as much as 30% of the cold air can escape when you open the door. When the power is out, your refrigerator can't replace this lost air, so constantly opening the door during a power outage will cause your food to spoil much quicker than just leaving it closed.
• Insulate your refrigerator. It seems counterintuitive, but covering your refrigerator in thick blankets can help it stay cold for longer. If you don't have extra blankets, newspaper makes a great insulator as well. Make sure not to cover the rear vents in case the power turns back on overnight or while you are away.
• Check the chart. FoodSafety.gov has a chart which lays out their recommended guidelines for handling refrigerated food after a power outage. It is important to know which food items can be spared and which need to go.

• When it doubt, throw it out. This is the golden rule of food safety; if you are unsure whether or not something is okay to consume, play it safe and throw it away. No dinner is worth food poisoning and a trip to the hospital.

These tips can also apply to other situations where your refrigerator isn't working – such as when it breaks. In this case, the best way to keep your food from spoiling is by getting your appliance fixed as soon as possible. Luckily for residents of Long Island, Speedy Subzero refrigerator repairs guarantees one hour service to Nassau and Suffolk Counties. Our phone lines are always open, call us anytime at 866-782-9376 to schedule your repair.