Do a Refrigerator & a Freezer Need Separate Outlets?

Manufacturer Directions

• Refrigerator and freezer manufacturers specify that the appliance requires a separate, dedicated outlet in the owner's manual if it's necessary with their appliances. Not only should the appliance have a separate outlet, but the outlet should have a dedicated circuit. The manufacturer might also require that the outlet have a particular voltage. Most often the company also recommends against the use of an extension cord and advises against using cords that show signs of damage; both can affect the amount of power the appliance receives.

Electrical Code

• County and city electrical codes sometimes establish appliance regulations. The code might require that all major appliances, including refrigerators, freezers, microwaves and dishwashers, use separate outlets. Additionally, the codes might state that the outlet must have ground-fault-circuit-interrupter protection. Most refrigerators and freezers are placed in the kitchen near a sink; GFCI protection usually is required when an outlet is within 6 feet of a faucet or sink.

Problems

• If a refrigerator or freezer does not have a separate outlet, it has to share the current with another appliance. The refrigerator or freezer might require more current than the circuit can handle, causing the electrical wiring to overheat. When the wiring overheats, it trips the circuit breaker and causes it to stop working until you reset it. Over time, the wiring could melt from overheating, ignite materials around it and cause an electrical fire.

Warnings and Tips

• Always follow the manufacturer's suggestion when it specifically states to use separate, dedicated outlets. Follow city and county codes if they specify you must use a separate outlet. GFCI-protected outlets are more easily tripped by power surges, which shut off the power to the refrigerator or freezer. When possible, use outlets without GFCI protection to plug in a refrigerator or freezer.