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.
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.
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.
There are devices called snubbers that can be used to reduce, or eliminate the effects of EMI. Installing one between the fridge and the GFCI device, could prevent nuisance trips. The best solution though, is to connect the fridge to a non-GFCI protected circuit.
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.
Another reason why a refrigerator or freezer should not be on a GFCI outlet is because GFCI outlets are often “daisy chained.” This means that one GFCI circuit can be connected to multiple outlets in the kitchen or garage.
If you are talking about a regular domestic refrigerator, you can plug it into the regular 110 to 120 volts outlet. However, do not plug your refrigerator into a wall socket that has two terminals. Ony use your fridge in a three-pronged socket.
Nevertheless, you'll find a 20 Amp GFCI outlet in: Kitchens: Refrigerators, blenders, microwave ovens, and other high-power kitchen appliances.
The simplest and most common reason a refrigerator, or any appliance, would trip a circuit breaker or fuse box is because it's overloading the overall circuit.
We do not recommend connecting a Refrigerator to a surge protector.
2023 NEC Code Changes for GFCI Outlets
Traditionally, this requirement applied only to kitchen countertop receptacles, but now any cord-and-plug connection points in the kitchen (such as refrigerator receptacles, disposal receptacles and microwave receptacles) now require GFCI protection.
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.
Selecting the Right Outlet: What to Consider
The outlet's amp rating should match or exceed the refrigerator's requirements to ensure proper power supply. Dedicated Circuit: If possible, dedicate an outlet or circuit solely to the refrigerator. This minimizes the risk of overloading and ensures consistent performance.
It's important to note that fridges in other living spaces, like a basement, are not exempted. If the fridge is in any other room, it will need AFCI protection. GFCI's, on the other hand, monitor the current coming and going.
Overloaded Circuit
This may happen if you connect malfunctioning or defective appliances. Loose, corroded wires or connections may also be to blame. Once the GFCI outlet senses an overload, it trips or "breaks" the circuit.
GFCI outlets protect all outlets on the same circuit, as well as connected tools and appliances.
Another common cause of GFCI tripping is when the circuit that your fridge is plugged into is overloaded.
GFCI and AFCI outlets connect directly to the circuit. You do not need both a GFCI outlet and a GFCI circuit breaker on the same circuit. GFCI circuit breakers are good installation options for new branch circuits, but they may not work properly on older, multiwire systems.
This surge generates an excessive amount of heat, which can damage multiple parts of the refrigerator. Three components in particular that we often see damaged by a high voltage surge are the control board, the compressor, and the ice maker. The control board is the most sensitive component in the refrigerator.
20-amp circuits are designed for a heavier load of electrical current than 15-amp circuit breakers. For commercial and industrial power distribution, the circuit breakers will have a higher amperage.
All commercial buildings/kitchens are required to have GFCI for refrigerators. See NEC 210.8(B)(2). In a Dwelling Unit (house or apartment) refrigerators located inside the kitchen do NOT have to have a GFCI.
Yes, GFCI outlets go bad. The average lifespan for a GFCI outlet is ten to fifteen years. Therefore, if you have an older home, you're more likely to experience GFCI outlets going bad.
The temperature of a refrigerator needs to be maintained at a certain level, and if you unplug it, the temperature inside drastically changes leading to many problems. Even when not in use at night, it is best left plugged in to preserve the quality of the food stored inside.
20A 125V outlets
These outlets look similar to the previously mentioned three-prong 120-volt ones. However, a sideways T-shaped slot on the left will signal that this outlet is more powerful. These outlets stand their ground even when supporting appliances like refrigerators and washing machines.
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.