How to Operate a Refrigerator's Compressor Motor With a Gas-Powered Generator

Extended electrical power outages become more than an inconvenience when frozen foods and dairy products are stored in a refrigerator. A gas-powered generator of sufficient capability combined with the proper size extension cord can supply electricity to the refrigerator’s compressor motor until the house power is restored. Refrigerator compressor motors require an extra surge of power to start, but once the motor comes up to speed, the energy to keep it running is less. You can set a generator up in 10 minutes or less with basic do-it-yourself ability.

12-gauge extension cord

Instructions

- 1
  Find the specification plate on your refrigerator. The plate will be located either on the back of the appliance or on the lower framework.
- 2
  Check the plate for the operating wattage of the refrigerator. Most refrigerator compressor motors require approximately 1,200 watts to start and then level off to 150 to 300 continuous watts when running.
- 3
  Remove the refrigerator power cord from the wall receptacle and plug it into the female end of a 12-gauge extension cord.
- 4
  Connect the male end of the extension cord into a 120-volt receptacle on the generator. The generator must be capable of producing a minimum of 1,200 watts for starting power at 15 amperes.
- 5
  Start the generator.

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