Refrigerator Circuit A modern refrigerator requires a dedicated 20-amp, 120/125-volt circuit. You may currently have a smaller refrigerator plugged into a general lighting circuit, but during any major remodeling, a dedicated 120/125-volt circuit for the refrigerator should be installed.
Can a refrigerator be on a 15-amp circuit?
Most refrigerators run between 3 to 6 amps, with that said, a refrigerator can spike at peak usage up to 15 amps. You should have refrigerators and freezers installed on a 15-20 amp dedicated 120 volt circuit.
Can a refrigerator be plugged into a regular outlet?
Refrigerator – Most refrigerators work with a standard 100-120 volt electrical plug and outlet. You will notice that the electrical plug is made up of three prongs; this means you will need an electrical outlet that has three inserts. It is best to use an outlet that has a Ground Fault Interrupter or GFI.
What needs a 20 amp outlet?
Appliances, such as microwaves, often have 20-amp plugs and must be plugged into a 20-amp outlet. A 15-amp circuit is usually served by 14-gauge wire and is protected by a 15-amp circuit breaker or fuse. A 20-amp circuit, protected by a 20-amp breaker or fuse, must be served by 12-gauge or 10-gauge wire.
What appliances use 20 amp plugs?
A 20-amp circuit is used to power appliances like microwave ovens, toasters, as well as blenders. Common kitchen appliances require a 20-amp circuit to function. Two 20-amp circuits are required so as to spread the different appliances throughout the kitchen countertop outlets.
Should I install 15 or 20 amp outlets?
Standard 15-amp receptacles are suitable for typical household appliances, lamps and other accessories. A 20-amp receptacle is for heavy-duty appliances and power tools, such as air compressors. Residential garages occasionally have 20-amp receptacles to accommodate larger power tools.
Should kitchen outlets be 15 or 20 amp?
Kitchens and bathrooms should always have 20 amp gfci outlets. However, you must be using number 12 wire for 20 amp gfci or regular outlets If your wiring is number 14 guage then use a 15 amp. So, the wire size and breaker size together should be rated for 20 amps!
Do you need 20 amp outlets in kitchen?
Kitchens need to be on a dedicated 20-amp circuit and require 12-gauge wire. Today, 12-gauge wire is wrapped in a yellow sheath, but your old cable may be white. New circuits in kitchens need both arc fault and ground fault circuit interruption (AFCI, GFCI) protection.
Can I run 2 refrigerators on the same circuit?
A refrigerator and freezer shouldnt be on the same circuit. Appliances like these use a lot of power intermittently, and putting too much strain on one circuit can cause frequent cooling issues, food waste, or even surges in your home.
Should a refrigerator be on a GFCI?
Should a refrigerator be plugged into a GFCI outlet? A refrigerator shouldnt be plugged into a GFCI outlet. GFCI outlets are used in areas of the home with water or moisture. These include bathrooms, basements, and kitchens.
Can you plug a microwave and a refrigerator on the same outlet?
You cant power a refrigerator and microwave on the same circuit. Other kitchen appliances must also be on dedicated circuits, including the garbage disposal, dishwasher, freezer and electric range.
When should I use 15 amp or 20 amp?
Standard 15-amp receptacles are suitable for typical household appliances, lamps and other accessories. A 20-amp receptacle is for heavy-duty appliances and power tools, such as air compressors. Residential garages occasionally have 20-amp receptacles to accommodate larger power tools.