What gauge extension cord do I need for a refrigerator?

Extension cords with a lower gauge number—like 10 or 12 gauges—are considered heavy-duty cords because they have a higher capacity to deliver power. Since the 10-gauge cord is an extra heavy-duty extension, it makes the best choice for big power loads like a refrigerator.

Can I use a 14 gauge extension cord for refrigerator?

Experts advise that the extension cord must be of the right length, voltage, and rating for the appliance to work properly. With no problem, you can connect your refrigerator to a power strip cord with conductors of 14 gauge or thicker-12 gauge. Most houses use 14 gauge wiring or better.

Can you use a 16 gauge extension cord for a refrigerator?

I think it's unlikely that your fridge draws more than 2 amps under any conditions ( if you have a tag on the unit which lists watts, just divide watts by 120 (voltage) to get amps), so any extension cord you have will be fine.

Is it OK to plug a fridge 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.

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.

Extension Cord 101 | Best Size For YOU

Can 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.

Is 12 gauge extension cord OK for refrigerator?

Best Extension Cord for a Refrigerator

Extension cords with a lower gauge number—like 10 or 12 gauges—are considered heavy-duty cords because they have a higher capacity to deliver power. Since the 10-gauge cord is an extra heavy-duty extension, it makes the best choice for big power loads like a refrigerator.

What is a 14 gauge extension cord good for?

Frequent use cords.

A 14-gauge cord is for medium or frequent duty applications (lawnmowers, power drills, table saws, television sets, etc.). These cords are also great for things like power tools, electric chainsaws, leaf or snow blowers, etc. They can handle larger tools and equipment and heavier use.

What can I run with a 14 gauge extension cord?

If your cord is 150 feet long, the 14 gauge is best suited for 1-7 Amps, whereas the 12 gauge will support 8-10 Amps. This shows that the extension cord's length also plays a part in the power it helps safely.

Can a 16 gauge extension cord handle 12 amps?

16 Gauge for 1-10 Amps. 14 Gauge for 11-13 Amps. 12 Gauge for 14-15 Amps. 10 Gauge for 16-20 Amps.

How many amps does a refrigerator pull?

The average refrigerator uses 725 watts of power and 10 to 20 amps. This can equate to roughly 10 percent of your home's total energy consumption.

Can I plug my freezer into an extension cord?

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

Which is better 14-gauge or 16-gauge extension cord?

Within 50 feet of your outlet, use a 16-gauge light-duty cord for blowers. For a higher Amp or a greater distance from the outlet, go with a 14-gauge medium-duty cord. Look for a "W" on the jacket if the cord is rated for outdoor use.

Which is better 10 gauge or 12 gauge extension cord?

Round down = 10 Gauge. Most devices will do fine with 12 gauge extension cords. Power hungry devices such as lawnmowers, heavy machines, require a lower gauge such as 10AWG. Keep in mind, the lower the gauge means the thicker the cord.

How long is refrigerator power cord?

The average length of an appliance cord is 3-6 feet. The height, depth and width of the unit should be checked for space clearance. Water dispensers and ice makers need to be connected to a water line.

Can you use extension cords on appliances?

Using extension cords

Never use extension cords to power appliances. Plug appliances directly into wall outlets. . Never use indoor extension cords outdoors. Don't plug multiple cords together.

How do I choose an extension cord gauge?

Recommended wire gauge for extension cords

Larger numbers mean smaller wires, which in turn means it can carry less power. A cord measuring 14 AWG is the thinnest we recommend—and at lengths of only 25 feet or shorter—and the much thicker 10 AWG is likely the thickest gauge you'll find in an extension cord.

Is a 12 gauge extension cord heavy duty?

This outdoor extension cord takes functionality to the next level. It comes 25 feet in length that uses a 12-gauge wire, which is perfect for heavy-duty applications.

How many watts can a 16 gauge 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 I protect my refrigerator from a power surge?

Should a fridge be plugged into a GFCI?

Residential Kitchen

In a dwelling unit (residential), GFCI protection is only required for kitchen receptacles that serve the countertop surfaces. There's no requirement to GFCI protect receptacles that serve a refrigerator. Unless the fridge is plugged into a countertop receptacle.

How do I stop my fridge from tripping the GFCI?

To avoid this happening, make sure that your refrigerator has a dedicated circuit, which you can do by plugging your refrigerator into an alternative power outlet and seeing if it still trips.

What is a 16 gauge extension cord good for?

Sixteen-gauge cords are low wattage and are intended for use with small appliances such as portable fans, alarm clocks, table lamps, or floor lamps (note: an electronic device such as a TV or computer should be connected to a surge protector).

Do I need a heavy duty extension cord?

If you need an extension cord that can be used outdoors, you will want a heavy duty power cord that has a heavy gauge. Despite the fact that a majority of extension cords look similar, it is usually not the best idea to grab whatever extension cord you see first, especially if you require heavy duty extension cords.

What's the difference between 14-gauge and 16 gauge?

So higher numbers (like 16 gauge) are thinner than smaller numbers (like a 6 gauge). When discussing gauges, references to a "larger gauge" means bigger around, not a bigger number. That is to say that if you're told that you need a larger gauge than 14, you need to look at 12 or 10 which are wider, not at 16.