Defrosting fridgefreezer: How long have I got?

IlonaRN

My fridge stopped working, and it appears it is due to the freezer becoming iced over in the bits that can't be seen.

I've taken the freezer drawers out and wrapped them in a sleeping bag to try to keep them a little insulated. They're all on top of each other too, to slow down the defrosting, and I've put them by the front door, which is the coldest part of my house. Considered taking them to the garage, but I'm tired!

How long do you think they can reasonably be kept out of the freezer before I have to junk everything? There's a large amount of meat in there, and I'd be loathe to lose it all.

valk_scot

Have you put a large bowl of hot water into the freezer to help speed up the defrosting process?

As for the frozen pile, it will be fine for two or three hours like that. Pop your duvet over the top for extra insullation if you're worried! Check foodstuffs when you're putting them back in though, especially items like prawns and ice cream.

[Deleted User]

It will all be done within half an hour if you use bowls of boiling water. You will need to get the fast freeze on before you can get the food back. I help it along by using a plastic utensil as a scraper for the big lumps, which I remove

Your food will be fine