Using Dry Ice During Your Next Power Outage
Dry ice is a versatile substance with numerous applications beyond its use in Halloween parties or chilling drinks. Its ability to maintain a consistent, sub-zero temperature has revolutionized how companies and corporations transport perishable food items and medicines. Additionally, dry ice can be a lifesaver during a power outage. It is always a good idea to be prepared and aware of how to stay safe in such situations. Below are guidelines for using dry ice as a cooling mechanism during a power outage.
Using Dry Ice During a Power Outage
In case of a power outage, keeping the refrigerator and freezer doors closed for 24-48 hours is recommended to maintain the cold temperature inside. However, if the outage extends beyond this time frame, the high temperature may cause food spoilage. To tackle this, dry ice can be used as a substitute for the cooling power of a refrigerator or freezer.
Dry ice has a temperature of -109 degrees F, which makes it an ideal cooling mechanism during an outage. For a standard freezer, 25-30 pounds of solidified carbon dioxide can keep it cold for one day. However, a large freezer will require three pounds per cubic foot of freezer space.
You don’t need as much dry ice for a refrigerator since the food doesn’t need to freeze. In case of a power outage lasting more than a few days, you must replace the dry ice due to sublimation or the ice turning from a solid to gas.
Safety Considerations
When the power goes out, it’s crucial to evaluate the safety of the food in the fridge and freezer. To determine whether thawed or partially thawed food is still safe, it’s recommended to look for ice crystals or check if the food is at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below. Although refreezing may affect the quality of the food, it will still be safe to consume.
If you want to learn more about the safe use of dry ice, don’t hesitate to contact Dry Ice Corp today. If you need additional safety tips, refer to this page for more information.
Dry Ice for All Your Needs
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.
