Home Garden

How to Keep a Refrigerator Running With an Electric Generator

Losing power in the heat of the summer for your refrigerator might mean you lose all your food while waiting for the power company to restore electricity. If you have your own electric generator, you have the option of hooking your refrigerator to the generator, thus saving your groceries from spoiling. Check the power wattage requirements of your refrigerator to make sure you have the right size of generator to supply the needed power.

Things You'll Need

  • Exterior-grade extension cord
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place the generator outside where all the carbon monoxide fumes from the burning fuel will dissipate into the air instead of poisoning your home environment. Protect it from the weather in case of rain or snow, and keep it away from any flammable materials.

    • 2

      Fill the fuel tanks before starting your generator and keep a backup supply close by in case power isn't restored for a long time. Do a quick check of the oil level, adding more if necessary.

    • 3

      Start the generator and allow the engine to run for a few minutes before starting to use the power.

    • 4

      Plug the refrigerator into the "female" end of an exterior-grade extension cord. Run the cord outside to the generator and plug it into the plug receptacle of the generator.

    • 5

      Check the refrigerator by opening the door and seeing if the light comes on. You should also hear the hum of the condenser motor running quietly.