View Full Version : Plug Fridge in another outlet when power out?
scoobydoo
Oct 28th, 2009, 02:14 AM
I'm curious can I plug my fridge which has a normal plug in another outlet when the power is out, or will it start a fire, blow a fuse, or do something just as bad or worse? Is that socket only made for the fridge?
tkyoshi
Oct 28th, 2009, 02:24 AM
I'm curious can I plug my fridge which has a normal plug in another outlet when the power is out, or will it start a fire, blow a fuse, or do something just as bad or worse? Is that socket only made for the fridge?
You mean when the breaker has tripped on the "normal" outlet? Cause I assume when the power is out, it's uhh out for the whole house ;)
Yes you can plug it into any standard plug, however I would not plug it in to the an outlet with other devices attatched (like your toaster, coffee maker).
Maymybonneliveforever
Oct 28th, 2009, 08:39 AM
A regular 15 amp circuit shouldn't carry more then 1500 watts constantly. What draws alot of power is heating eliments such as toasters coffee machines etc. As tkyoshi is the power out to the whole house in which case this thread is without value. If it has blown a breaker/fuse then there is either a problem with that curcuit or it's drawing to much power so you will need to reduce it or find another line on a different breaker that has room to spare so to speak.
Mr Nobody
Oct 28th, 2009, 10:03 AM
I'm curious can I plug my fridge which has a normal plug in another outlet when the power is out, or will it start a fire, blow a fuse, or do something just as bad or worse? Is that socket only made for the fridge?
Ignoring the power out comment...
The only thing special about that plug is that it is on its own 15A breaker/fuse. Other outlets above your countertop are the same. As long as you don't run a toaster or microwave on the same outlet you will not be tripping any breakers or blowing fuses (in normal situations). Some countertop outlets even have a separate 15A breaker/fuse for the top and bottom plug, in which case it is okay to have another device plugged into the other plug.
The other outlets in your house (eg living room) have multiple outlets sharing one 15A breaker/fuse. It is not advisable to use these outlets for your fridge (even if the power cord can reach).