Keeping Refrigerators Cold During Storm Power Loss
Food loss becomes one of the most expensive consequences of extended outages.
Refrigerators warm gradually but begin losing safe temperature within hours without power cycling.
Opening doors accelerates warming faster than most households expect.
Backup systems sized only for lighting cannot maintain safe storage temperatures through multi-day outages.
Backup systems must also be operated safely outdoors.
Storm planning should prioritize refrigeration first before comfort appliances.