For a long time now I have wanted to complete a REAL test on the ability of my fridge to operate in hot conditions. I had my chance a short time ago and the results are very interesting in how the fridge copes with starting to cool and also when loaded with the necessities to go away off grid for a 5 day break. I also had purchased a wireless digital thermometer with two separate sensors so I could record both freezer temps as well as fridge temps at the same time without opening fridge itself. Ambient temp is also recorded so conditions are shown. It is about as scientific as I could make it and I have set out all the parameters that could have a bearing on operation. There are probably others too!!
It has been discussed in earlier posts the importance of having fridge level and also the fact that the freezer takes precedence in the whole cooling process. This is clearly shown in the attached chart. (See difference in freezer vs fridge temps in first few lines on initial cooling) . Also note that the freezer section is not too drastically affected when food is placed inside for the first time (see lines where food has been loaded). So the freezer will always keep things frozen no matter what the ambient temperature. The fridge section is subject to the amount of cooling available after freezer makes sure it stays freezing. This will vary no doubt on the size of freezer and fridge compartments.
It definitely takes time to pull the temperatures right down (overnight is the best), but also reducing the time door is open is important. Note in these tests the door/s are not opened at any time, a bit unreal, but the only way to get proper results. Also, the ambient temperature at the time was very high and was still high overnight too.
Other things to consider are the fact that my fridge has two small computer fans internally to distribute and move the cool air around , and the cooling of the rear of fridge is assisted by two 120mm computer fans thermostatically controlled. I hope some members find this of value when operating their 3 way fridge. Comments are welcome.
Also, I have attached link for thermometer I used to monitor temperatures for around $20.00 on Ebay and very handy.
https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Wireless-Digital-Audible-Alarm-Refrigerator-Thermometer-with-2pcs-Sensor-AU/352720889461?_trkparms=aid=555018&algo=PL.SIM&ao=1&asc=20131003132420&meid=460e1ba05f6d4abd989da3435dcb7f44&pid=100005&rk=3
It has been discussed in earlier posts the importance of having fridge level and also the fact that the freezer takes precedence in the whole cooling process. This is clearly shown in the attached chart. (See difference in freezer vs fridge temps in first few lines on initial cooling) . Also note that the freezer section is not too drastically affected when food is placed inside for the first time (see lines where food has been loaded). So the freezer will always keep things frozen no matter what the ambient temperature. The fridge section is subject to the amount of cooling available after freezer makes sure it stays freezing. This will vary no doubt on the size of freezer and fridge compartments.
It definitely takes time to pull the temperatures right down (overnight is the best), but also reducing the time door is open is important. Note in these tests the door/s are not opened at any time, a bit unreal, but the only way to get proper results. Also, the ambient temperature at the time was very high and was still high overnight too.
Other things to consider are the fact that my fridge has two small computer fans internally to distribute and move the cool air around , and the cooling of the rear of fridge is assisted by two 120mm computer fans thermostatically controlled. I hope some members find this of value when operating their 3 way fridge. Comments are welcome.
Also, I have attached link for thermometer I used to monitor temperatures for around $20.00 on Ebay and very handy.
https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Wireless-Digital-Audible-Alarm-Refrigerator-Thermometer-with-2pcs-Sensor-AU/352720889461?_trkparms=aid=555018&algo=PL.SIM&ao=1&asc=20131003132420&meid=460e1ba05f6d4abd989da3435dcb7f44&pid=100005&rk=3
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