If you’ve ever plugged in a new refrigerator and waited impatiently to load it with food, you’ve probably wondered , how long does it take for a fridge to get cold? The short answer: it usually takes anywhere from 2 to 24 hours, depending on the model, size, and environmental conditions. But there’s much more to it than just waiting.
In this complete guide, you’ll learn how refrigerators cool, what affects cooling time, and how to make your fridge get cold faster. You’ll also find useful tables, expert tips, and troubleshooting steps so you never have to guess again.
Understanding How a Fridge Gets Cold
Before we dive into times and tips, it helps to understand how refrigeration actually works. Knowing the science behind it gives you insight into why your fridge takes time to reach the right temperature.
The Science Behind Refrigeration
A refrigerator doesn’t create cold; it removes heat. Inside every fridge, there’s a closed-loop system made up of a compressor, condenser coils, evaporator coils, and a refrigerant gas. Here’s how it works:
- The refrigerant is pressurized by the compressor, transforming it into a high-temperature gas.
- The condenser coils release this heat into the surrounding air (that’s why the back of your fridge feels warm).
- The refrigerant then cools down and turns into a liquid.
- It travels through evaporator coils inside the fridge, absorbing heat from within and making the inside space cold.
This cycle repeats continuously, maintaining temperatures around 37°F (3°C) for the fridge and 0°F (-18°C) for the freezer.
Fun fact: Modern energy-efficient fridges use variable-speed compressors, which adjust their speed to save power and maintain steady cooling.
Key Factors That Affect Cooling Time
How quickly your fridge gets cold depends on several variables. Here are the most important ones:
- Fridge Type & Size: Larger or multi-door models take longer than mini fridges.
- Room Temperature: A hot room (above 85°F) can double cooling time.
- Fridge Load: An empty fridge cools faster initially, but temperature stabilizes better when half full.
- Door Openings: Frequent openings let warm air in and slow the process.
- Starting Temperature: If it’s been stored in a hot truck or garage, it’ll take longer to cool down.
- Ventilation: Poor airflow around the back and sides can overwork the compressor.
How Long Does It Take for a Fridge to Get Cold?
So, the big question: how long before a fridge is cold enough to use?
Average Cooling Times by Fridge Type
| Fridge Type | Average Cooling Time | Optimal Temperature |
| Mini fridge | 2–4 hours | 37°F–40°F |
| Top-freezer refrigerator | 4–6 hours | 35°F–38°F |
| Side-by-side fridge | 6–8 hours | 35°F–38°F |
| French-door fridge | 8–12 hours | 35°F–38°F |
| Commercial fridge | 12–24 hours | Depends on capacity |
As you can see, the larger and more advanced the fridge, the longer it takes to cool completely. Manufacturers like Whirlpool and LG typically recommend waiting at least 24 hours before loading food to ensure optimal performance.
How to Know When Your Fridge Is Cold Enough
You don’t have to guess whether your refrigerator is ready. Here are a few reliable ways to check:
- Use a fridge thermometer. Aim for 37°F (3°C) for the fridge and 0°F (-18°C) for the freezer.
- Check the temperature display. Many modern fridges have digital sensors that show exact readings.
- Look for physical signs: the compressor cycles less often, condensation disappears, and items feel cool to the touch.
If your fridge hasn’t reached these temperatures within 24 hours, something may be off and you’ll want to check a few possible causes next.
Why Your Fridge Might Take Longer to Get Cold
Even a brand-new fridge can take extra time to cool if something’s not right. Here are the most common reasons.
1. Overloading Too Soon
One of the biggest mistakes new owners make is filling the fridge immediately after plugging it in. Warm food or too many items trap heat, forcing the compressor to work overtime.
Tip: Wait until the temperature stabilizes before loading groceries. Start with small, cold items first.
2. Incorrect Temperature Settings
Most fridges ship with factory settings that may not be ideal. Check the temperature dial or digital panel and adjust as needed.
| Section | Ideal Temperature Setting |
| Refrigerator | 37°F (3°C) |
| Freezer | 0°F (-18°C) |
Setting temperatures too high can delay cooling; too low can cause frost and uneven cooling.
3. Blocked Air Vents or Coils
A fridge cools by circulating air through vents between the fridge and freezer. If you block these with containers or food, cooling slows dramatically.
- Keep vents clear inside the fridge.
- Clean condenser coils (usually on the back or bottom) every few months.
- Make sure there are at least two inches of space around the refrigerator to allow for air circulation.
4. Faulty Components
If your refrigerator still isn’t cooling after 24 hours, components like the thermostat, compressor, or refrigerant system may be malfunctioning.
Warning signs include:
- The motor runs constantly or not at all.
- There’s a burnt smell or clicking noise.
- Frost forms in strange areas.
When that happens, it’s time to call a technician rather than trying DIY fixes.
How to Make Your Fridge Get Cold Faster
Want to speed up the process? Here are some practical, science-backed tips.
Follow These Steps
- Place it in a cool, well-ventilated area. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources like ovens.
- Keep the doors closed. Every open door lets in warm air and adds hours to the process.
- Don’t load it too early. Wait until it’s fully cooled before storing perishables.
- Use frozen water bottles. They act like thermal batteries to stabilize temperature.
- Plug it into a dedicated outlet. Voltage fluctuations can affect compressor performance.
- Set the correct temperature right away. Don’t rely on the default factory setting.
Smart Setup Tips for New Fridges
If your fridge just arrived, setup plays a big role in how fast it cools. Manufacturers recommend these steps:
- Let the fridge stand upright for 3–4 hours before plugging in. This allows compressor oil to settle.
- Remove packaging materials like tape and foam that block air vents.
- Level the fridge to ensure proper door sealing and compressor efficiency.
- Maintain clearance: 2 inches on sides, 4 inches at back.
Following these steps can cut cooling time by several hours.
What Experts Say About Cooling Time
Appliance manufacturers have their own guidelines for cooling and food storage timing.
“Allow your refrigerator up to 24 hours to reach stable cooling temperatures after installation.” Whirlpool User Manual
“Refrigerators typically take 8–12 hours to cool completely, but this depends on the model and surrounding temperature.” LG Support Center
Expert consensus is clear: patience pays off. Rushing the process can cause uneven cooling, energy waste, and food safety issues.
Common Myths About Fridge Cooling
There’s a lot of bad advice floating around about new fridges. Let’s clear up a few misconceptions.
Myth #1 — “It’s Cold After One Hour”
Even if the air inside feels cool after an hour, the walls and shelves haven’t reached stable temperature yet. Food placed too soon can spoil or cause condensation.
Myth #2 — “Leaving the Door Open Helps Cool Faster”
This does the opposite. Warm air rushes in and forces the compressor to work harder, delaying cooling.
Myth #3 — “New Fridges Don’t Need Time to Cool”
New fridges require time for internal fluids and oils to stabilize after transport. Plugging them in immediately can damage the compressor or cause uneven cooling.
Signs Your Fridge Isn’t Cooling Properly
If your refrigerator still isn’t cold after several hours, it might not be functioning efficiently. Use this quick troubleshooting table to identify common issues:
| Problem | Likely Cause | Suggested Solution |
| Not cooling at all | Thermostat too high or compressor failure | Lower temperature or call a technician |
| Uneven cooling | Blocked vents | Rearrange items or clear vents |
| Constant running noise | Dirty coils or damaged seals | Clean coils or replace gaskets |
| Frost in freezer | Leaky door gasket | Replace or reseal door |
| Warm air despite running motor | Low refrigerant or sensor fault | Professional service required |
When to Call a Technician
Sometimes, the problem isn’t setup it’s mechanical. Call a certified technician if:
- The fridge hasn’t cooled after 24 hours.
- You hear clicking, buzzing, or rattling from the compressor area.
- There’s a burning smell or electrical sparks.
- Temperature keeps fluctuating despite settings.
Fixing issues early prevents energy waste and extends appliance lifespan.
Final Checklist Before Storing Food
Before you start stocking your new fridge, make sure these boxes are checked:
- Fridge temperature at or below 40°F (4°C)
- Freezer temperature at 0°F (-18°C)
- Shelves and drawers cleaned
- Door seals tight and even
- Vents clear for air circulation
- Fridge level and stable
Only after confirming these can you safely load groceries without affecting cooling efficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How long should I wait before putting food in a new fridge?
Wait at least 4–12 hours, depending on the model. Check temperature with a thermometer before adding food.
Q2: Does opening the door slow down cooling?
Yes. Every time you open the door, warm air enters and extends cooling time.
Q3: Can ambient room temperature affect fridge cooling?
Absolutely. A hot kitchen can make the compressor run longer, while a cool room shortens cooling time.
Q4: How can I tell if my fridge is working properly?
You should hear a gentle hum or fan noise every few minutes. If the interior feels cold and the motor cycles occasionally, it’s working fine.
Q5: Is it safe to plug in a fridge right after delivery?
No. Always wait at least 3–4 hours after moving it to let the oil settle before turning it on.