Is it OK to plug a refrigerator into an extension cord?

While most small appliances can be plugged in to an extension cord with no problem, that isn't the case with a refrigerator. Refrigerators are huge and need a lot of energy to run and thus a regular extension cord may not be able to take on the job and be a fire hazard to boot.

Is it OK to use an extension cord for a refrigerator?

Using a grounded extension cord with a three-prong plug is always the best choice for major appliances including refrigerators. When it comes to amperage, check the owner's manual for your refrigerator to determine the amperage rating and then choose an extension cord with an equivalent rating.

What amp extension cord do I need for a refrigerator?

However, if an extension cord is used, it is absolutely necessary that it be a UL® listed 3-wire grounding appliance extension cord and that the current carry rating of the cord be a minimum of 15 amperes.

Is it OK to plug a refrigerator into a power strip?

Rule two: never plug high power capacity appliances, like space heaters, refrigerators, or microwave and toaster ovens into power strips or extension cords. These appliances have higher power capacity and need to be plugged into a wall outlet directly.

Should a refrigerator be plugged into a surge protector?

We do not recommend connecting a refrigerator or freezer to a surge protector. The reason we do not recommend this is explained below: The compressor is sensitive to temperature and current overloads and will shut itself down with a power surge.

What extension cord to use for large refrigerator in garage

Can you plug a refrigerator in the garage?

Can You Put a Fridge in the Garage? You can keep a fridge in the garage, but you should first consider the temperature inside your garage. Understanding how modern refrigerators function can help you decide if your setup is suitable for a garage refrigerator.

Do I need a heavy duty extension cord for a refrigerator?

If you need to plug in your refrigerator, we recommend using a heavy duty appliance extension cord. These cords are made for items that require more power than an ordinary extension cord can provide.

Is it OK to use an extension cord with a freezer?

GE strongly recommends that an extension cord not be used with a freezer due to the potential safety hazards under certain conditions.

Why do some appliances say not to use an extension cord?

Certain high wattage appliances should not use an extension cord when possible (check the owner's manual). Using an extension cord on these appliances could cause excessive heat and voltage drop, this could damage the appliance or motor.

How many amps does a refrigerator pull?

According to the United States Department of Energy, refrigerators have an average wattage of 725 watts, which, at 120 volts, computes to an amperage of 6.04 amps.

What gauge extension cord do I need for a freezer?

A typical refrigerator or freezer draws 15 amps of current at 120 volts, and that amount of current calls for a 14-gauge cable at a minimum. However, 12-gauge cable is safer because refrigerator and freezer compressors can draw more than the rated current every time they cycle on.

What should you not use an extension cord?

Using extension cords

Never use indoor extension cords outdoors. Don't plug multiple cords together. Don't run extension cords under rugs or furniture. Never tape extension cords to floors or attach them to surfaces with staples or nails.

How much wattage can an extension cord handle?

As the cord gets longer, the current carrying capacity of the cord gets lower. For example, a 16 gauge extension cord less than 50 feet in length can power a 1625 watt (W) appliance. A 16 gauge cord that is longer than 50 feet in length can only power an appliance up to 1250W.

How do extension cords cause fires?

Extension cords can overheat and cause fires when used improperly. Overheating is usually caused by overloading or connecting appliances that consume more watts than the cord can handle. Damaged extension cords can also cause fires. Extension cords should only be used temporarily.

Can a refrigerator and freezer be plugged into the same outlet?

You can plug a freezer and a refrigerator into the same outlet if their total draw doesn't exceed the capacity of the circuit. But again, if they start at the same time, their total draw will spike significantly, tripping the breaker in the process.

Can you plug freezer into power strip?

Refrigerator and freezer.

These appliances pull too much current for a power strip because they are continuously cycling on and off. That will quickly overload a power strip. These items need to be plugged directly into a wall outlet dedicated solely to that appliance.

What does a grounded extension cord look like?

Grounded extension cords have three wires. If the insulation has hidden the third wire, you can look at the plug. While ungrounded extension cords have two prongs, the plug of a grounded extension cord has three prongs. The third prong provides grounding protection, which is why you should never remove it.

Does a fridge need a dedicated circuit?

Do Refrigerators Need Dedicated Circuits? Having the refrigerator on its own dedicated circuit is the recommended best practice for homeowners. Most refrigerators run between 3 to 6 amps, with that said, a refrigerator can spike at peak usage up to 15 amps. It's best to take into consideration worst case scenarios.

Can you keep a refrigerator in the garage in winter?

Having a refrigerator in your garage is a great way to store extra and bulk food. While this can be beneficial, most garage refrigerators stop working at some point during the winter if left unmanaged.

What kind of refrigerator can I put in my garage?

Can a refrigerator be stored outside in the winter unplugged?

It is not a good idea to leave your fridge outside in the winter unplugged. This can damage key internal components including the compressor. The average fridge is engineered to remain set at room temperature to function properly.

Does leaving an extension cord plugged in use electricity?

Unplugging – Regardless of whether or not it's being used, as long as a power extension cord is plugged into an outlet, it's conducting electricity. To avoid potential safety hazards, always remember to unplug extension cords when they're not in use.

Do extension cords use more electricity?

The longer the extension cord, the more power it takes to run to the appliance. An appliance plugged in using an extension cord will use more electricity than if it was just plugged into the wall. For small items, this increase is negligible, but it will add up over time for more significant things.

Is it bad if an extension cord gets warm?

“If the cord gets warm or hot to the touch, you may have the wrong size cord or there may be a problem with the wiring in the cord,” Dodson said. “If the cord should handle the load of the item that is plugged in and it becomes hot, there is a problem.”