What temperature should you set your freezer to?

With these 3 tips, you can easily set the temperature of your freezer.

• Tip 1. Set the temperature to -18°C
• Tip 2. Use a thermometer
• Tip 3. Save on energy costs

Products are well-frozen at a temperature of -18°C. On most freezers, it's also possible to set the temperature a few degrees lower. This just doesn't make a difference for frozen foods. A lower temperature won't push back the expiration date of your food. But every degree below -18°C does add to your energy costs.

With a freezer with a dial, the highest setting is the coldest. It might be a bit confusing, but the higher the setting, the lower the temperature. To know which setting you need, you have to buy a thermometer that's suitable for fridges and freezers. For a reliable measurement, place the thermometer between your frozen food for a couple of hours. Is the temperature higher than -18°C? Turn the dial to a higher setting for a colder temperature.

Aside from being the best temperature, -18°C is also the most energy-efficient temperature for your freezer. Still, there are more ways to save energy and to ensure that your freezer doesn't have to work extra hard to constantly keep the temperature at -18°C:

• Don't place your freezer next to a heat source.
• Don't block the ventilation gap at the back of the freezer, so the heat can escape properly.
• Don't leave the door open too long.* Let warm products cool down before you put them in the freezer.
• Regularly defrost your freezer.