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Topic: Fridge on separte circuit

User: Ginny, Location: Tennessee

Asked on: Tuesday, May 31, 2011 at 7:27 pm EDT
Answered on: Tuesday, May 14, 2024 at 6:03 am EDT

Question: My electrician wired my new house with fridge on regular receptacle, then a GFI, then the range hood all on the same circuit. Says he's never done it differently. I've lost food in my fridge twice. Any thoughts?

Potential Causes of Fridge Failure



Overloaded Circuit

When multiple high-power appliances are on the same circuit, it can overload the circuit and cause it to trip. A fridge, GFI, and range hood are all high-power appliances, so it's possible that they are overloading the circuit.


Faulty GFI

GFI outlets are designed to trip when they detect a ground fault, which can protect against electrical shocks. However, if the GFI itself is faulty, it can trip unnecessarily, cutting power to the fridge.

Defective Fridge

It's also possible that the fridge itself is defective and causing the circuit to trip.

Recommended Actions



Unplug the range hood

Disconnect the range hood to see if the fridge and GFI continue to operate properly. If the problem resolves, it indicates that the range hood is overloading the circuit.

Test the GFI

Press the "Test" button on the GFI outlet to see if it trips. If it trips without any apparent reason, it may be faulty and should be replaced.


Check the circuit breaker

Locate the circuit breaker that controls the circuit the fridge and GFI are on. Make sure it is not tripped. If it is tripped, reset it and see if the fridge and GFI power up.

Contact a qualified electrician

If you are unable to resolve the issue on your own, it's best to contact a qualified electrician to inspect the wiring and appliances involved. They can identify the root cause of the problem and recommend appropriate solutions.

Additional Tips



Avoid overloading circuits

Use common sense when plugging in appliances and avoid overloading circuits with multiple high-power appliances.

Have dedicated circuits

Ideally, high-power appliances like fridges and ranges should have their own dedicated circuits to prevent overloading.


Check appliance cords:
Make sure the cords to all appliances are in good condition and not damaged or frayed. Flag for review

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