What is the maximum allowable temperature for sample refrigeration according to best practices?

The maximum allowable temperature for sample refrigeration according to best practices is typically 6 degrees Celsius. This temperature is considered optimal for preserving the integrity of water samples during transportation and storage prior to analysis.

Refrigeration at this temperature helps slow down microbial activity and chemical reactions that could alter the composition of the sample, ensuring that the characteristics of the water being analyzed remain as close to their original state as possible. Following these guidelines is critical for reliable and accurate analytical results, as elevated temperatures can lead to degradation of sensitive constituents in the water.

This practice is widely endorsed in various standard methods and guidelines for water quality analysis, emphasizing the importance of maintaining samples at or below this temperature to minimize any changes that could occur if the samples were kept warmer.