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Power outage food safety: how long does food last?

Quick answer

According to Ready.gov, a closed refrigerator keeps food cold for about 4 hours and a full freezer holds its temperature for about 48 hours. Throw out food that has been at 40°F or warmer for two hours or more. For long outages, move food to cold storage that has power, such as a refrigerated trailer with a generator or at a site with service.

By the Fridge on Wheels team · Updated October 2026

How long food stays cold after the power goes out A closed refrigerator keeps food cold for about 4 hours. A full freezer holds its temperature for about 48 hours. Throw out food that has reached 40°F or warmer. Power out ~4 hours closed fridgestays cold ~48 hours full freezerholds temperature Food at 40°F or warmer for 2+ hours: throw it out
Ready.gov guidance for power outages. A refrigerated trailer on site means you don’t have to race the clock.

Keep the doors closed

Every time a refrigerator or freezer opens, it loses cold. Decide what you need, grab it fast, and keep a thermometer inside so you can check without guessing.

Know the numbers

  • Refrigerators should be at or below 40°F; freezers at 0°F (FDA)
  • Closed refrigerator: about 4 hours of cold (Ready.gov)
  • Full freezer: about 48 hours (Ready.gov)
  • Food at 40°F or warmer for 2+ hours: throw it out (Ready.gov)

When there’s too much food to lose

Restaurants, grocers, community groups, food pantries and families with full freezers can lose a lot in one outage. A refrigerated trailer gives that food somewhere cold to go. Remember that the trailer needs power too: a generator, or a site that still has electricity. Call (404) 418-8290 and we’ll help you plan it.

Need a trailer? Call (404) 418-8290 or get a quote in about a minute.

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Questions we hear a lot

How long does food last in the fridge without power?

About 4 hours if the door stays closed, according to Ready.gov.

How long does a freezer stay cold without power?

A full freezer holds its temperature for about 48 hours, according to Ready.gov.

When should I throw food out?

Ready.gov says to throw out food that has been at 40°F or warmer for two hours or more, or that has an unusual odor, color or texture.

Can a refrigerated trailer run during an outage?

Yes, with a generator or at a location that has power. It runs on electricity.

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