Tips on Using Dry Ice When the Power is Out
Spring is finally here, and summer is not too far away. Also, summer can often indicate severe weather, bringing potential power outages. However, food spoilage is one of the consequences of a power outage. A problem that can cost you a lot and another trip to the store. Fortunately, you can protect that food with the assistance of dry ice. Read the following tips on using dry ice when the power is out.
Be Ready
Leaving the refrigerator and freezer doors closed during the early stages of a power outage will keep your food cold for a day or two, based on how entire your appliance is. Remember that the longer the power outage, the higher chances for food spoilage. In this case, using dry ice when the power is out is crucial.
So, dry ice can temporarily cool your freezer or refrigerator when it’s clocked in at -109 degrees Fahrenheit. During a power outage, put about 30 pounds of dry ice on the freezer’s top shelf. In a refrigerator, put the dry ice on the bottom shelf. Try using dry ice when the power is out for several days. As a result, you will need more dry ice – sublimating over time.
Don’t Neglect Food Safety
Once the power returns, ensuring your food is safe to consume is critical. Never taste the food to determine its safety! Additionally, thawed or partially thawed freezer food can be refrozen if it still includes ice crystals or is below 40 degrees. Although partial thawing and refreezing might impact the quality of some food, the food will be safe to eat.
Dry Ice Guidelines
If your freezer does not function well within a day or two, dry ice may assist in keeping some frozen food from spoiling. However, dry ice can be costly and challenging to obtain in some areas. If an emergency is predicted, and you choose to use dry ice, find a source in advance to retrieve it quickly. Lastly, wear protective gloves when handling dry ice and avoid touching them with your bare hands because it will cause severe frostbite.
Do you need dry ice to keep food fresh for camping, shipping, or emergencies? Or more tips on using dry ice when the power is out? Dry Ice Corp. has plenty to provide! Contact us today for more information.
Order Your Dry Ice Online Today!
Dry Ice Corp is the largest regional supplier of dry ice and related products in the Northeastern United States. Our ice is fresh and delivered right to your doorstep. We are happy to help you determine the best way to ship your goods, whether you have a huge number of cookies or a single pie, and help you select the perfect amount of dry ice for the job. Give us a call at (201) 767-3200, or contact us online for a quote. To connect with us online, be sure to follow us on Facebook, Pinterest, and Twitter.