Plugging a refrigerator in using an extension cord?

Question

I have a fridge in my garage and where it's situated, I'll need an extension cord. One of my friends told me that you shouldn't use extension cords when plugging refrigerators, but couldn't tell me why. Has anyone ever heard this before? And why would it be a bad idea?

Answer 1

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker

A refrigerator has a compressor in it, which at start-up will draw about 6 times the rated amperage of the compressor motor ... you can use an extension cord, but make sure that it is of the same wire size as the branch circuit serving the receptacle (plug) #12 wire minimum + ground for a 20A circuit and #14 wire + ground for a 15A circuit

Asker's Rating:

Asker's Comment:

Cool thanks for the info!

Answer 2

Refrigerators and other major appliances take a major draw on the power. Most extension cords are not made to handle that. If you do, buy a heavy duty extension cord, not just a lamp cord.
Either way, you risk starting an electrical fire.

Answer 3

It's okay, just use one that'll handle the load.

Answer 4

Whatever you do never use the cheap extension cords... fire waiting to happen. Consult with someone that works in that department at Lowes or Home Depot on what type of extension cord you'll need for your refrigerator... probably a really good heavy duty one.

Answer 5

Short and thick. There is an industrial Gage of very heavy duty copper-wound extension cords that ensures the amps will get through. I would also get that cable as close to the exact length without a bunch of coiled length hanging around. You would want the most out of the available electricity because brown-outs wallop refrigerators.

Answer 6

YES YOU CAN USE ONE.

BUT MAKE SURE THE EXT-CORD IS HEAVY DUTY

Source(s):

I HAVE ONE IN MY GARAGE FOR 3 YEARS NOW!