Can I plug my refrigerator into an extension cord?

The best and safest option for powering a refrigerator is to plug it directly into a wall outlet. If you must use an extension cord to power your refrigerator, choose a heavy-duty cord that is capable of handling the refrigerator's energy requirements without compromising safety.

Accordingly, is it OK to plug a refrigerator into an extension cord?

Yes, you can use one if the capacity is adequate. But most refrigerator manufacturers recommend against using an extension cord for a variety of reasons. One concern is that you're going to use a cord that's not capable of carrying the load without heating up too much. This can turn into a fire hazard.

One may also ask, can you use an extension cord permanently? If you need to permanently connect an electrical device, you should use approved wires and/or cable assemblies installed in an approved manner. As Tester101 says, extension cords are not meant for permanent wiring. But there are a number of things to keep in mind when you are using extension cords.

Beside above, what should not be plugged into an extension cord?

Rule two: never plug high power capacity appliances, like space heaters, refrigerators, or microwave and toaster ovens into power strips or extension cords. These appliances have higher power capacity and need to be plugged into a wall outlet directly.

Is it OK to plug a fridge into a power strip?

No, it is not okay to plug refrigerators, microwave ovens, space heaters, or any other high amperage appliance into a power strip. They have appliance extension cords that you can purchase as opposed to an outlet strip.

25 Related Question Answers Found

Should I put a surge protector on my refrigerator?

We do not recommend connecting a refrigerator or freezer to a surge protector. The compressor is sensitive to temperature and current overloads, and will shut itself down with a surge. A surge protector will override this system, and if there is a power surge, your refrigerator may not restart.

Can you plug microwave into extension cord?

We strongly recommend that an extension cord not be used with a microwave due to the potential safety hazards under certain conditions. The microwave should be plugged into its own properly grounded, dedicated electrical outlet to prevent the flickering of the lights, blowing of a fuse or tripping of a circuit breaker.

What gauge of extension cord do I need?

14-Gauge Cords: Any 14-gauge cord between 0 and 50 feet long will adequately handle loads between 10 and 15 amps. 12-Gauge Cords: If your tool load is between 10 and 15 amps and the length of the cord is 50 to 100 feet, you need a 12-gauge cord to safely power any tool. This is a great extension cord for many purposes.

Can a refrigerator and freezer be plugged into the same outlet?

If you need more space for your cold and frozen food, you might invest in a second refrigerator or freezer. Before you plug the two appliances into the same outlet, be sure you're not breaking the building code regulations or creating a hazard. Often, just one refrigerator isn't enough.

How many amps does a refrigerator use on startup?

Refrigerator Starting Current

It shows a maximum inrush current of about 13 amps which lasts only about one-half second. Also, the running current is significantly less than the nameplate value.

How many amps is a refrigerator?

The average refrigerator uses approximately 725 watts of electricity and 15 to 20 amps, which can equal 10 percent or more of your home's total energy usage.

Can a window air conditioner be plugged into a power strip?

No is the general answer to such a broad question. However, if the AC draws less than the rating of the power strip, it will work safely. An AC that will plug into a standard outlet (US) is rated at or below 15 amps. There are power strips rated at 15 amps.

Why is daisy chaining bad?

Daisy chaining is a term that refers to the practice of plugging a power strip into another power strip. This is dangerous because an excessive amount of power is being drawn from one single wall outlet, which means the power strip or wall receptacle could easily overload.

Does leaving an extension cord plugged in use electricity?

No, an extension cord (short of long) does not draw (consume) any power so there is no way for the cord itself to increase your bill. An extension cord only conveys power to the devices plugged into it - if those devices are actually turned on.

Are extension cords a fire hazard?

With continuous use over time, an extension cord can rapidly deteriorate, creating a potentially dangerous electric shock or fire hazard. Do not overload extension cords or allow them to run through water or snow on the ground. Do not substitute extension cords for permanent wiring.

What can be plugged into a power strip?

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.

Can you plug a phone charger into an extension cord?

Avoid relying on extension cords when charging devices. Extension cords are not meant for long-term use. If you need to plug in your phone in a more convenient area than is available, this may be an indicator you need more outlets.

Can you connect two power strips together?

It is easy to exceed the capacity of the power strip and the circuit, so use some caution when adding multiple appliances to the strip. Do not use adapters or extension cords between the strip and the outlet. Never plug one power strip into a second power strip or into an extension cord.

How long can extension cords be used OSHA?

90 day

Are multi plugs safe?

A single plug has a limited power supply capability and will have to supply more current than it is rated for to run all the appliances plugged in to it. To be safe from any danger, use a multi-plug adaptor but do not use all the appliances at the same time.