When it comes to extension cords and refrigerators, mixing the two is not a good idea. If you think using an extension cord with their refrigerator is a quick and easy fix, think again—it can be very dangerous. Although many people look for refrigerator extension cords, it is not recommended to use with this appliance. Extension cords are not meant to be used long-term without any breaks; an electrician should be contacted instead for a permanent solution.
What specs are required to power a refrigerator?
Refrigerators draw a lot of power and would require at least 15 amps minimum. Can you find this in a store? Yes. However, most three-prong power cables don't reach more than 15. They are not designed to power refrigerators. This would also eliminate the ability to use any cord over 50 feet since the longer the cable, the less power it typically generates.
A short-length extension cord that is 10-gauge and at least 15-20 amps may power your fridge, but we don't recommend it because there are so many reasons not even to try it.
Do Not Use Extension Cords with Refrigerators
The number one rule of extension cords is that they are only used as temporary solutions. "Temporary" means for only a few hours at a time and not for days, weeks, months, or years. If you need an extension cord to power your fridge long-term, you need to have an electrician come and wire a new outlet near your fridge. Always remember the danger that comes with handling electricity; it is something we take for granted.
Here are the primary safety reasons not to use extension cords with refrigerators and other appliances that run consistently (air conditioner, stove, etc.):
Appliance Damage
Extension cords are not designed to handle the amount of power that refrigerators need. Refrigerators are heavy-duty appliances. Yes, there are heavy-duty extension cords. However, these cables are designed more for tools versus appliances, like a lawnmower or chainsaw. If an appliance is heavy-duty, that's a different story.
Heavy-duty appliances like a refrigerator or stove should always be plugged directly into an outlet to retrieve its power source. Otherwise, it can cause damage to the unit.
Struggling to obtain power will cause the fridge to overcompensate, putting too much stress on your fridge or extension cord (or both). This decreases the appliance's longevity and may even increase your energy bill. Not to mention, the unit is protecting your food—you don't want it to struggle to deliver cold air.
Fire Hazard
All extension cords (at least if UL-approved) come with a note or tag that says "For temporary use only." The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) warns people against using extension cords permanently because it violates fire code. If you use an extension cord with your refrigerator, it could overheat and start a fire.
Using extension cords is one of the leading causes of electrical fires. According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), "Extension cords are one of the leading causes of electrical fires in homes. Extension cords account for nearly 50% of all home electrical fires each year, resulting in hundreds of injuries and millions of dollars in property damage."
Of those accidents, so many of them result from bad safety practices with extension cords. It is vital to ensure you know your extension cord basics and always use it properly.
An Overview
Extension cords are not a long-term solution and can cause appliance damage, decreased longevity, and even start a fire. If you need to use an extension cord, make sure it is only for temporary use and that you follow all safety precautions.
For extension cord temporary use with refrigerators, look for one that is 10-gauge, between 15 to 20 amps. With those specs, you're mainly looking at a short-length cable under 50 feet long. If you need any more than 100 feet, then forget it.
We always recommend you contact an electrician for advice. They can help you figure out a permanent solution to power your refrigerator without the use of extension cords.
