Why can't I use an extension cord with my freezer?

The extra current overheats smaller 16- and 18-gauge extension cords, which are intended for lamps and small appliances, and you should never use one for a refrigerator or freezer.

Can a freezer be plugged 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.

Do you need a heavy duty extension cord for freezer?

Most appliance manufactures include a short cord to reduce voltage drop. Nevertheless, you can always use an extension cord with your freezer. Get a heavy-duty extension cord rated for your freezer voltage and amps.

Can I plug a freezer into a regular outlet?

A freezer is one of the easiest home appliances to install since it can plug into a standard wall electrical outlet.

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 safe to use an extension cord on a chest freezer?

What kind of extension cord can I use 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.

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.

Why these appliances should directly be connected to an electrical socket and not to an extension wire?

Electrical fire cause 3: Extension cords.

Misuse of extension cords is another electrical fire cause. Appliances should be plugged directly into outlet and not plugged into an extension cord for any length of time. Only use extension cords as a temporary measure.

Can you use an extension cord with 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.

What appliance causes the most house fires?

Are outlet extenders safe?

According to the US National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), products that generate heat, such as hair dryers, space heaters, toasters or crock pots, should always be plugged directly into the electrical outlet. They pull too much power to safely use with a power strip or extension cord.

How many amps does a freezer use?

Modern chest freezers typically use 2 amps while running, however 3.5 amps is very common. A typical modern upright freezer uses 2.3 amps when running.

Can you use a surge protector for a refrigerator?

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 it OK to put freezer in garage?

And if your garage is insulated and climate-controlled, it's fine to put a freezer there. You just want to make sure the space is dry. Keep the freezer away from windows and out of direct sunlight, because that makes it work harder to maintain the right interior temperature.

Do small freezers need special outlet?

An upright or chest freezer should always be plugged into its own individual electrical outlet which has a voltage rating that matches the rating plate. A 115 Volt AC, 60 Hz, 15- or 20- amp, fused, grounded electrical supply is required.

Does a freezer have to be on its own circuit?

Upright and chest freezers require a 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. The freezer should be on a dedicated circuit.