What Happens If I Plug a Refrigerator into a Surge Protector?

While it might seem like a good idea to use a surge protector for your refrigerator, there are several practical and safety concerns to consider. In this article, we will delve into why it is generally not recommended, as well as explore the best practices for powering your refrigerator safely and effectively.

Why Not Use a Surge Protector for a Refrigerator?

There are several reasons why using a surge protector for a refrigerator is not a good idea:

Power Requirements

Refrigerators require a significant amount of power, especially when the compressor starts up. Most surge protectors are not designed to handle the high inrush current that refrigerators can draw, which could lead to the surge protector tripping or failing. Large appliances like refrigerators can draw more power than a typical surge protector can handle. This could cause the surge protector to overheat and potentially create a fire hazard.

Surge Protection

Surge protectors are designed to protect against voltage spikes, but they may not provide adequate protection for large appliances like refrigerators. If a power surge occurs, the protector might not effectively shield the refrigerator from damage. Using a surge protector for a refrigerator could potentially bypass important safety and overload protection mechanisms in the refrigerator itself, leaving your appliance more vulnerable to damage.

Warranty Issues

Some manufacturers specify that appliances should not be plugged into surge protectors. Doing so could void the warranty on your refrigerator or freezer, leaving you without the protection you expect in case of issues.

Best Practices for Plugging Your Refrigerator

Directly Plug into a Wall Outlet

The safest and most effective way to power your refrigerator is to plug it directly into a wall outlet. This ensures that your refrigerator receives the necessary power without any risk of overload or inadequate surge protection.

Use a Dedicated Circuit

Refrigerators should ideally be on a dedicated circuit to avoid overloading and ensure stable operation. A dedicated circuit is designed to handle the electrical load of a large appliance like a refrigerator, reducing the risk of overloading and potential electrical hazards.

Consider Using a Surge and Undervoltage Protector

If you decide to use a surge protector, it is important to choose one that is rated to handle the refrigerator's power requirements. Look for a device that provides over and under voltage protection and can restart after a short delay when power within the specified range is restored. Devices such as surge brownout protectors are designed to avoid continuous humming and ensure the refrigerator functions properly.

Example:

Surge Brownout Protector on eBay

Conclusion

While it might be tempting to use a surge protector for your refrigerator, it is generally safer and more effective to connect it directly to a wall outlet. Maintaining a dedicated circuit will also help ensure your refrigerator operates safely and efficiently without the risk of overloading or damage from voltage fluctuations.