In Fahrenheit
Freezer should be zero° F
Fridge should be below 40° F
Lettuce should be stored 39° F or below to prevent the growth of bacteria
Root cellar needs to hold steady 32 - 40° F and humidity 85-95%
Cans and jars should not freeze (may expand and break) ideal temp is 50° F
Wine needs to be kept below 70° F
Apples like 30° F to 32° F may vary depending on the type of apple cultivar
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woodstoves should be hotter than 300 or 350° F, less than 500 or 600° F
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water heaters - this is a difficult decision to make - the EPA recommends 120° F
Water heaters set at temperatures between 77°F to 108°F (25°C to 42°C) can become breeding grounds for Legionella bacteria, which can cause Legionnaires’ disease.Preventing Waterborne Germs at Home (CDC)
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Gardening
Some plants, and fruit trees, need "chilling hours" - they need to have so many hours of cold temperatures in the winter in order to fruit the next summer. The amount of hours and temperatures vary.
Chill temperatures are between 32°F and 45°F
How many hours? AI advice:
Utah model
This model uses a set of calculations to determine the number of chill units for each temperature. For example, one hour below 34°F is 0.0 chill units, while one hour between 37°F and 48°F is 1.0 chill units.
Dynamic model
This model takes into account variations in temperature over time and can reset the calculation if cold conditions return after a warm spell.
Different fruit and nut trees have different chilling hour requirements. For example, a typical apple or pear tree needs 1,200 to 1,500 chill hours. If a tree doesn't get enough chill hours, it may not flower or set fruit.
To determine if your area receives enough annual chill hours, you can use hourly historical weather data for your location. You can also consult your county Extension Agent for advice.
