Free Dry Ice Tool
Power Outage Calculator
Estimate how much dry ice to keep a freezer or refrigerator cold during a power outage, with safety and placement tips.
Estimated planning range
40–63 lbs
Based on the widely cited USDA figure of ~50 lbs keeping a full 18 ft³ freezer cold for about two days.
Position: place dry ice on cardboard on top of the food (top shelf for refrigerators). Keep the door closed.
Don't: handle bare-handed, seal in airtight containers, or use in a small closed room.
Replace: check a few times a day; replenish when little ice remains.
Dry ice releases carbon dioxide gas and requires proper ventilation. Keep children and pets away.
Planning estimate only. Actual dry ice usage varies based on insulation, airflow, temperature, container type and handling.
Last reviewed: September 2026
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