If you’re wondering what size breaker to use for your refrigerator, the answer may surprise you. Many people believe that they need a dedicated circuit for their fridge, but that’s not always the case. In fact, most refrigerators can be plugged into a standard 120-volt outlet with a 15-amp circuit breaker.
Most refrigerators require a 20-amp circuit breaker. If your fridge is on its own circuit, then it will most likely be a 20-amp breaker. However, if you have other appliances on the same circuit, then the breaker may be larger.
To be safe, always check with an electrician to make sure you are using the correct size breaker for your refrigerator.
Do I Need a Dedicated Circuit For a Refrigerator?
What Size Breaker Do I Need for a Refrigerator
If you’re wondering what size breaker you need for a refrigerator, the answer may surprise you. You actually don’t need a dedicated circuit for your fridge. It can share a circuit with other appliances, as long as that circuit isn’t overloaded.
The general rule of thumb is that you can have up to four appliances on one 20-amp circuit. However, keep in mind that some appliances, like air conditioners and hair dryers, require their own dedicated circuits. So if you have more than four appliances sharing a single 20-amp circuit, you may want to upgrade to a higher-amp breaker.
As for how much power your fridge uses, it depends on the model and size of the fridge. A small apartment-sized fridge may only use 600 watts, while a large commercial fridge can use 1,200 watts or more. To be safe, assume that your fridge will use about 1,000 watts and plan accordingly.
In short, there’s no need to worry about what size breaker you need for your refrigerator. As long as it’s on its own circuit or part of a group of appliances that doesn’t overload the circuit, you’ll be fine. And if you ever have any doubts or questions about your electrical system, always consult with a licensed electrician before making any changes or repairs.
If Your Refrigerator is Larger Or Uses More Power, You May Need a 20-Amp Circuit Breaker
If you have a larger refrigerator or one that uses more power, you may need to use a 20-amp circuit breaker. This is because the extra size and power usage can cause an overload on a 15-amp circuit breaker. If you’re not sure which size you need, it’s always best to consult with an electrician before making any changes to your home’s electrical system.
Credit: www.galvinpower.org
Conclusion
The size of the breaker you need for your refrigerator depends on the make and model of the fridge. Most homes have a 15-amp circuit, which can handle up to 1,800 watts. If your fridge is larger than that, you’ll need a 20-amp circuit.