Refrigerator or Freezer – Running a refrigerator via a dedicated circuit is the recommended best practice for homeowners. Most refrigerators use between 3 and 6 amps, but peak draw can spike up to 15 amps. For this reason, refrigerators and freezers should be connected to a 15-20 amp dedicated 120-volt circuit.
Having the refrigerator on its own dedicated circuit is the recommended best practice for most homeowners. Most refrigerators run between 3 to 6 amps, with that said, a refrigerator can spike at peak usage up to 15 amps, but it's best to take into consideration worst case scenarios.
Refrigerators can be power-hungry appliances, and sharing an outlet with another device can lead to overloading the circuit. Additionally, the start-up surge of power that refrigerators experience when their compressors kick in could affect the performance of other devices connected to the same outlet.
If it doesn't run on its own circuit, the appliance will likely draw too much electricity and cause the circuit to function poorly. Most refrigerators run between 3 to 6 amps. However, they can experience sudden spikes, which can cause them to run at around 15 amps.
The National Electrical Code requires dedicated circuits for major electrical appliances such as refrigerators, stoves, washers, dryers, and electric water heaters because they ensure that appliances can operate safely without overloading the home's electrical system.
It is not recommended to connect a refrigerator to a multi-outlet. If it is unavoidable, please use one with a power rating of 15 ampere or higher.
Why is it bad if the refrigerator is on a GFCI circuit? A GFCI trips when the outgoing and returning current differ. The startup of the compressor within the refrigerator can cause minor spikes in the flow of electricity, causing the GFCI breaker to shut off power to the outlet.
You should never use a microwave and refrigerator on the same circuit The NEC requires that permanent microwave devices have a dedicated circuit. The same could be said about refrigerators. However, you should be clear on which type of refrigerator is in question.
Most local codes require a dedicated 20A circuit. If you put other appliances on the same circuit with a dishwasher, you risk an overload condition that will trip the breaker, cause damage to the wiring, or start a fire.
Whenever possible, connect your refrigerator directly to a properly grounded outlet or consider having an electrician install a new outlet closer to the appliance. By adhering to these guidelines, you can ensure both the functionality and safety of your domestic refrigerator for years to come.
Major appliances (e.g., refrigerator, stove, washing machine) should be plugged into their own outlet since they draw a lot of power. For smaller appliances, do not plug more than two into one outlet.
The receptacle serving a refrigerator can be included on one of the small appliance circuits or can be supplied by a separate individual branch circuit. Where it is an individual branch circuit, it can be a 15- or 20-ampere-rated branch circuit.
Dedicated Circuit: Refrigerators must be connected to a dedicated electrical circuit that is not shared with other appliances or equipment. This prevents overloading and potential electrical hazards.
Garbage disposals should be either hardwired or connected to an outlet through a grounded electrical outlet. A dedicated circuit is generally recommended, although a circuit that is shared with a dishwasher is sometimes appropriate. The best authority on this distinction is the disposal's user manual.
We strongly recommend that an extension cord not be used with any Refrigeration appliances (Refrigerator, Freezer, Compact Refrigerator, Ice Machine, Beverage Center, etcetera) due to the potential safety hazards under certain conditions.
Dedicated circuits are highly recommended for all these devices: Electric oven, stove, or range. Refrigerator. Stand-alone freezer or chest freezer.
Dedicated circuits help prevent appliances from tripping your breakers. They also lower your risk of damaging your appliance and extend the lifespan of your breaker. All major home appliances and heat-producing devices should have their own dedicated circuit.
Electrical Code Requirements for Kitchens
Kitchen lighting must be provided by a separate circuit of 15 or 20 amps.
Make sure that the refrigerator outlet or receptacle isn't sharing the circuit with another item, like an extension cord or decorative outdoor lights. The cord may be damaged, and the lights can have enough leakage current to trip the GFCI. This is why having a dedicated refrigerator circuit can be a benefit.
We do not recommend connecting a Refrigerator to a surge protector.
Typically, refrigerators should not be plugged into GFCI outlets. This is another appliance with a motor that can be prone to a little current leakage. Using a standard outlet saves nuisance tripping and the potential of waking up to a refrigerator full of warm food.
But before you make a final choice on appliances consult with your Licensed Electrical Contractor because you may need an electrical upgrade. That beautiful washing machine needs to be on a 120-volt 15 or 20-amp receptacle, on its own circuit. The outlet should be placed out of reach and directly behind the machine.
Some home appliances, including fridges, washing machines, tumble dryers, fluorescent lighting systems, lawnmowers, central heating systems and water pumps, can disrupt your reception. This happens because of power fluctuations at the mains.
A 115-volt or 120-volt, individual, properly grounded branch circuit with a 3-prong grounding type receptacle, protected by a 15 or 20 amp circuit breaker or time-delay fuse. Should be on a dedicated circuit.