Cold and Coldest modes in refrigerator: decoding, settings and nuances of use

Have you ever looked at the instructions for the refrigerator and got lost in the abundance of incomprehensible modes? Among them, the inscriptions Cold and Coldest are especially common - but what do they mean in practice? Why are these modes regulated by separate buttons in some models, while in others they are hidden in the menu? And most importantly, how to use them correctly so that food is stored longer, and the electricity bill does not increase significantly?

This article will not just decipher the terms, but will help you understand the physics of work refrigerator: how the cold is distributed between the chambers, why there can be -18°Cin the freezer, but in the main compartment of everything +4°C, and what to do if the modes do not work “as expected”. We analyzed the instructions for 15 popular models (including Samsung RB37, LG GC-B247, Bosch KAN9**) and identified general principles - as well as nuances that manufacturers often keep silent about.

Spoiler: Coldest does not always mean “maximum cold”, but incorrect setting of these modes can reduce compressor life by 20-30%. But first things first.

What do the Cold and Coldest modes mean: technical explanation

Let's start with the basics: Cold (from English - "cold") and Coldest ("the coldest") - this is levels of cooling intensity, which the manufacturer included in the refrigerator control system. However, their implementation depends on type of refrigerator and chamber design:

• 🔹 Single-chamber refrigerators: here Cold usually corresponds to standard temperature (+2...+5°C), and Coldest - enhanced cooling (0...+2°C) for quick freezing or storage of perishable foods.
• ❄️ Two-chamber (with freezer): in the main chamber Coldest may mean -1...0°C (freshness zone), and in the freezer - -24...-30°C (shock freezing).
• 🌡️ No Frost systems: modes are often associated with intensity of fans, and not just with temperature.

Key point: Coldest ≠ "maximum compressor power". In modern models (for example Liebherr CNef 4815), this mode can redistribute cold between zones, and not just reduce the temperature in all compartments. So, when activated Coldest in the freezer, the main chamber may warm up slightly - this is normal if the priority is freezing a large batch of products.

Manufacturers rarely indicate exact temperature values for these modes. For example, the instructions for Bosch KGE39XL40 eat: "Coldest provides optimal conditions for meat and fish," but it does not indicate what these conditions are. In practice, this often means -2°C in the freshness zone and -24°C in the freezer.

How the Cold/Coldest modes affect the temperature in different zones of the refrigerator

To understand how these modes work, you need to imagine how the cold is distributed in the refrigerator. In most models there are 3 key zones:

1. Main chamber (+2...+6°C): here Cold maintains a standard temperature, and Coldest can lower it to 0...+1°C (suitable for meat, milk, sauces).
2. Zone freshness (0...+3°C): in mode Coldest the temperature can drop to -1°C, which is ideal for greens, berries and cheeses.
3. Freezer compartment (-18...-24°C): Coldest activates blast freezing (-24...-30°C) for quick freezing.

Important: in refrigerators with Multi AirFlow system (for example, Samsung RB37J5230SA) modes affect air circulation speed, and not just the temperature. When Coldest fans operate at maximum power, which speeds up cooling, but increases noise and energy consumption.

Critical error of many users: enable Coldest on an ongoing basis, believing that “the colder the better.” In fact, this leads to freezing of food (especially vegetables and fruits), an increase in ice in systems without No Frost and increased wear on the compressor.

When and how to use the Cold and Coldest modes: practical tips

The Cold and Coldest modes are not intended for continuous use. They should be activated situational, depending on the tasks:

• ⏳ Quick cooling: loaded warm products (for example, after purchase) - turn on Coldest for 1-2 hours, then return to Cold.
• 🍖 Storing meat/fish: if you plan to cook them for 1-2 days, use Coldest in the freshness zone (but no longer than 48 hours!).
• ❄️ Blast freezing: for berries, activate greens or semi-finished products Coldest in the freezer for 12-24 hours.
• 🦠 Disinfection: some models (for example, Haier C2F636C) in data-i="152">start additional air circulation, which reduces the risk of mold. Coldest trigger additional air circulation, which reduces the risk of mold.

How to switch modes correctly:

1. Press the button Cold/Coldest (or select from the menu if the control is electronic).
2. Wait for a sound signal or indication on the display (in models LG this is usually a flashing snowflake).
3. After 1-2 hours, check the temperature with a thermometer (if in doubt).
4. Return to standard mode when the task is completed.

⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators with linear compressor (for example, Samsung Digital Inverter) frequent switching between Cold and Coldest can reduce the life of the motor. Optimally - no more than once every 3-4 days.

The dangers of constantly using the Coldest mode: 5 hidden risks

Many users mistakenly believe that the mode Coldest is “turbo mode for perfect freshness.” In practice, its constant use leads to the following problems:

1. Freezing products: when -1...0°C in the freshness zone, vegetables lose vitamins, and dairy products can separate.
2. Increased energy consumption: the compressor runs 30-50% longer, which increases the light bill by 15-20% (according to tests Rostesta).
3. Formation of ice: even in systems No Frost at Coldest frost may appear on the back wall.
4. Wear of the compressor: constant operation at maximum power reduces the life of the motor (especially in budget models).
5. Uneven cooling: in some refrigerators (for example, Indesit DF 5200) when Coldest the upper shelves can become overcooled, while the lower ones remain warm.

📌 Practical example: The refrigerator user ATLANT XM 4625-101 complained that the milk was in the mode Coldest freezes and eggs crack. The reason is incorrect setting of the freshness zone: in this model Coldest lowers the temperature to -2°C, which is critical for liquid products.

⚠️ Attention: If your refrigerator has a function Super Cool or Power Freeze, it can duplicate Coldest, but with automatic shutdown after 6-12 hours. In this case, use both modes simultaneously. not allowed - this will lead to system failure.

How to set up Cold/Coldest modes in popular refrigerator models

The method of activating the modes depends on type of control refrigerator. Let's consider the most common options:

1. Mechanical control (rotary controls)

In models ATLANT, Biryusa, Nord modes are often indicated by numbers or labels:

• 🔘 1-2 — analog Cold (+4...+6°C).
• 🔘 3-4 —standard mode (+2...+4°C).
• 🔘 5-7 —analog Coldest (0...+2°C).

⚠️ Attention: In refrigerators ATLANT position 7 corresponds -2°C in the freezer, but in the main chamber the temperature can drop to 0°C - this can result in fruit freezing.

2. buttons)

In models Samsung, LG, Bosch modes are selected through the menu:

1. Press Fridge (or Temp) for the main camera.
2. Select Cold or Coldest (can be indicated as Super Cool).
3. Confirm selection (in LG - long press, in Bosch - button OK).

💡 In refrigerators Samsung s Twin Cooling Plus modes are configured separately for each chamber.

3. Touch control (touch panel)

In premium models (Liebherr, Miele) modes are activated by touching:

Settings → Temperature modes → Coldest (hold for 3 seconds)

⚠️ In Liebherr mode Coldest automatically turns off after 6 hours if you do not confirm its extension.

How to reset the settings if the refrigerator is stuck in Coldest mode?

In most models, disconnecting from the network for 10-15 minutes will help. If this does not work, press the buttons Power Cool + Power Freeze on. 10 seconds (for Samsung) or Temp + Light (for LG).

Cold and Coldest vs. other modes: what to choose for different products

Manufacturers often confuse users with the abundance of modes: Eco, Vacation, Super Freeze etc. How not to get confused? Use our table:

🔍 Nuance: In refrigerators with BioFresh zones (for example, Liebherr) mode Coldest automatically regulates humidity - for greens it increases to 90%, and for meat it decreases to 50%. This prevents withering and the development of bacteria.

⚠️ Attention: If your refrigerator has mode Vacation ("Vacation"), it impossible use simultaneously with Coldest. In this case, the main chamber is turned off and the freezer operates at minimum power - the food in the main compartment will spoil.

Frequent problems with Cold/Coldest modes and their solutions

If the modes do not work “as expected”, the reasons may be as follows:

• ❌ The refrigerator does not cool in the Coldest: check if it is enabled Eco or Vacation. It is also possible that the temperature sensor has failed (a common problem in Indesit and Ariston).
• ❄️ The rear wall freezesmode: in models without No Frost this is normal at Coldest, but if ice appears in systems with No Frost, defrosting is required (at least once every 6 months).
• 🔊 Increased noise: in the Coldest mode the compressor operates at maximum power, and fans (if any) - at high speeds. If the noise does not disappear after returning to Cold, wear of the fan bearings is possible.
• 🌡️ The temperature does not correspond to the mode: check the door seals (they may be worn out) and the location of the products (if they block the ventilation holes).

🛠️ Fault diagnosis:

1. Unplug the refrigerator for 10 minutes, then turn it on again.
2. Check the temperature with a thermometer (put it in a glass of water at medium shelf).
3. If the problem persists, reset the settings to factory settings (instructions are usually in the manual).
4. If you suspect a breakdown of the sensor or compressor, contact service (self-repair may result in loss of warranty).

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions about the Cold and Coldest modes

Is it possible to leave the Coldest mode on? on a permanent basis?

No, this will lead to freezing of food, increased energy consumption and wear of the compressor. It is optimal to use Coldest no longer than 24 hours in a row, then return to Cold.

Why does the temperature in the freezer in the Coldest mode not drop below -18°C?

Possible reasons:

1. The Eco or Vacationmode is turned on, which limits power.
2. The temperature sensor or thermostat is faulty.
3. There are too many food items in the freezer (air circulation is disrupted).

Try to defrost the refrigerator and check the settings.

What is the difference between Coldest and Super Freeze?

In most models these are synonyms, but in some (for example, Bosch) Super Freeze this is a temporary shock freezing mode (disabled) automatically after 6-12 hours), and Coldest — constant temperature adjustment.

Which mode should you choose for long-term storage of vegetables?

For vegetables, the optimal mode is Cold with temperature +4...+6°C and high humidity in refrigerators with. zone BioFresh or CrispZone select a setting Vegetables (usually indicated by the 🥕 icon).

Why does the refrigerator not turn off for a long time after the Coldest mode?

This is normal: after intensive cooling, the compressor needs time to stabilize the temperature. If the refrigerator does not turn off for more than 8-10 hours, check:

• The tightness of the door.
• The room temperature (if higher +30°C, the compressor runs longer).
• Settings (possibly by accident activated Super Cool).