In most cases, you cannot directly convert a freezer into a refrigerator by simply lowering the temperature setting. Freezers and refrigerators are designed differently and have distinct cooling systems to maintain their respective temperature ranges.
The main difference between a freezer and a refrigerator lies in the temperature they are designed to achieve:
Freezer: Freezers are designed to maintain very low temperatures, typically around 0°F (-18°C) or below. This allows them to freeze and preserve food for extended periods.
Refrigerator: Refrigerators are designed to maintain higher temperatures, usually between 35°F to 40°F (2°C to 4°C). This temperature range is ideal for keeping perishable items cool and slowing down the process of spoilage.
Converting a freezer into a refrigerator would require significant modifications to its cooling system, which may not be feasible for a regular consumer. The cooling systems of freezers and refrigerators are designed to achieve specific temperature ranges, and altering them without proper expertise could lead to inefficient cooling, potential damage to the appliance, or even safety hazards.
If you need more refrigerator space and have a separate freezer, it's best to consider purchasing an additional refrigerator or a combination refrigerator/freezer unit designed for that purpose. These units come with separate cooling systems for the refrigerator and freezer compartments, ensuring that each compartment maintains the correct temperature range.