what-to-do-if-your-frigidaire-freezer-loses-power

What to Do If Your Frigidaire Freezer Loses Power

How to Handle a Power Loss in Your Frigidaire Freezer

When your Frigidaire freezer suddenly loses power, it can be a moment of panic. Whether due to a blackout, a tripped circuit breaker, or a malfunction within the unit itself, understanding the steps to take can help mitigate any potential damage or loss of your stored food. At TheKitchenApplianceDad.com, we’ve got you covered with a comprehensive guide on how to manage the situation effectively.

Frigidaire 18.3-cu ft Top-Freezer Refrigerator with Ice Maker (Stainless  Steel) ENERGY STAR in the Top-Freezer Refrigerators department at Lowes.com

Initial Steps to Take

1. Check Your Home’s Power Supply
First, determine if the issue is with the freezer itself or your home’s power supply. Check if other appliances are working or if the lights in your home are off. If it seems to be a general power outage, contact your local power company for information and estimated restoration times.

2. Examine the Circuit Breaker
If it’s only the freezer that’s stopped working, check your home’s circuit breaker or fuse box. A tripped circuit breaker or a blown fuse could be the culprit. Reset the breaker or replace the fuse and see if that resolves the issue.

3. Inspect the Freezer’s Power Cord and Outlet
Ensure that the freezer’s power cord is plugged in securely. Sometimes, the cord can become loose and lose connection. Additionally, test the outlet with another appliance to check if the outlet itself is functioning.

Managing the Freezer During an Outage

Maintaining the Cold:

  • Keep It Closed: The most crucial step is to keep the freezer door closed as much as possible. A full freezer will keep food safe for about 48 hours without power (24 hours if it’s half full) if you do not open the door.
  • Use Ice Blocks or Dry Ice: If the power outage is expected to last more than 48 hours, consider using dry ice or regular ice blocks to keep the freezer cold. According to the FDA, 50 pounds of dry ice should keep an 18-cubic-foot, fully stocked freezer cold for two days.

When Power Returns

1. Check the Temperature Inside
Once the power is restored, check the internal temperature of the freezer. If it has risen above 40°F, it’s crucial to check each item to determine its safety. You can find detailed guidelines on the FDA’s website.

2. Inspect the Food
Look for ice crystals on the food. Food that still contains ice crystals or feels refrigerator-cold can be refrozen. However, any meat, poultry, fish, or leftovers that have been above 40°F for two hours or more should be discarded to avoid the risk of foodborne illness.

3. Gradually Restock
Avoid the temptation to immediately restock your freezer. Allow the temperature to stabilize by resetting your freezer to its normal operating temperature and wait 24 hours before adding new items.

Preventative Measures for Future

1. Install a Freezer Alarm
Consider installing a freezer alarm that will alert you if the internal temperature begins to rise unexpectedly. This can be particularly useful if you are away from home frequently or during night hours.

2. Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance of your freezer can prevent future issues. Check and clean the condenser coils, ensure the door seals are airtight, and defrost the freezer if necessary to ensure it is running efficiently.

3. Prepare for Outages
If you live in an area prone to power outages, it might be wise to invest in a generator. This can keep your freezer and other essential appliances running during longer outages, protecting your food and providing peace of mind.

Key Takeaways

  • Immediate Action: Quickly assess whether the power loss is isolated to the freezer or a general outage. Check the circuit breaker and ensure the freezer’s power cord is secure.
  • Keep the Cold In: During an outage, keep the freezer door closed. Use ice or dry ice if the outage is prolonged.
  • Post-Outage Protocol: Once power is restored, check the temperature and the condition of the food. Dispose of any perishables that have been above 40°F for two hours or more.
  • Preventative Steps: Install a freezer alarm, perform regular maintenance, and consider a backup power source if outages are common in your area.

Handling a power loss in your Frigidaire freezer doesn’t have to be stressful. By following these steps, you can minimize food waste and ensure your freezer continues to function effectively for years to come. For more tips and appliance advice, keep following TheKitchenApplianceDad.com.

Meet

Dale

Hi, I'm Dale! With over ten years in high volume restaurants, my journey has taken me through the ins and outs of using, maintaining, and even repairing virtually every kitchen appliance imaginable.

I'm here to share simple, straightforward advice to help you choose and use your kitchen tools effectively. No fluff, just the essential info you need to cook up a storm.