How Long Is Food Safe When the Refrigerator or Freezer Fails?
Updated
Short answer
FoodSafety.gov: a closed refrigerator keeps food safe for up to 4 hours without power, after which refrigerated perishables should be discarded. A full freezer holds a safe temperature for about 48 hours, 24 if half full. Frozen food that still has ice crystals or is at 40°F or below can be refrozen.
The rules
- Keep the doors closed (FoodSafety.gov).
- Refrigerator: safe up to 4 hours if unopened; after 4 hours without power, discard refrigerated perishable food.
- Freezer: about 48 hours if full, 24 hours if half full, with the door closed (FoodSafety.gov chart).
- Food that still contains ice crystals or is at 40°F or below can be safely refrozen.
- The FDA says food is safe if the fridge is still at or below 40°F, or the food has been above 40°F for only 2 hours or less; if unsure, do not take a chance (FDA).
While you wait for a repair
Put an appliance thermometer in both compartments now. Move the most expensive items to a cooler or a neighbor's freezer early rather than late. See refrigerator repair and freezer repair.
Quick answers
How long does food last in a broken fridge?
Up to 4 hours with the door closed, according to FoodSafety.gov. After that, discard refrigerated perishables.
How long does a freezer stay cold?
About 48 hours if full and 24 if half full, with the door closed.
Rather have someone fix it?
Tell us the appliance, the brand, the model number and what it is doing. A local technician calls back with a time and a price before any work starts.