This article explains what a refrigerator protector plug means, and answers questions such as whether it is a good idea to plug a refrigerator into a surge protector, and how to protect a refrigerator from power surges.
What is a Fridge Protector Plug?
Fridge Protector Plug is a specialized type of surge protector designed specifically for refrigerators. These plugs help protect the refrigerator from electrical surges, voltage spikes, and other power fluctuations that can potentially damage the appliance. A typical fridge protector has built-in features that not only prevent overvoltage or undervoltage but may also have delay functions to avoid short cycling after power is restored.
Is it a good idea to plug your fridge into a surge protector?
Fridge protector manufacturers recommend plugging your fridge into a surge protector, but there are some prerequisites.
Refrigerators have high startup power demands. When the compressor starts up (surges or spikes), refrigerators typically draw a lot of power. Ordinary surge protectors may not be able to handle these fluctuations, which can damage both the fridge and the surge protector.
Surge protectors may be too sensitive: Most standard surge protectors are designed for small electronic devices like computers, TVs, or phones. On the other hand, a refrigerator is a large appliance that draws a lot of current, especially when it starts up. Surge protectors are often too sensitive to these sudden power fluctuations and can end up tripping or overloading.
Dedicated refrigerator protectors: There are surge protectors designed specifically for refrigerators, called refrigerator protectors or appliance-specific surge protectors. They are designed to accommodate high startup currents and provide better protection than large appliances, so if you are looking for a surge protector for your refrigerator, make sure it is designed for this purpose.
Summary
while you shouldn’t use just any regular surge protector, a refrigerator-specific protector can help you protect your appliances from potential electrical damage caused by power surges.
How Do I Protect My Refrigerator from a Power Surge?
Here are a few ways you can protect your refrigerator from power surges:
Use a Fridge Protector: As mentioned earlier, invest in a refrigerator-specific surge protector or voltage protector. These devices are engineered to handle your fridge’s power needs, including the high surge current when the compressor kicks in.
Install a Whole-House Surge Protector: If you’re concerned about power surges affecting multiple devices, you might want to install a whole-house surge protector on your electrical panel. This can help protect not only your refrigerator but all electronics and appliances in your home from power surges caused by lightning, utility issues, or other external factors.
Unplug During Storms: If you’re experiencing a storm or expect a power fluctuation, it’s best to unplug your refrigerator to protect it from a surge. However, this is not always convenient, and it doesn’t protect against surges that happen when you’re not at home.
Check Power Lines: Ensure that your home is equipped with proper grounding and that the electrical system is in good condition. Faulty wiring can increase the risk of power surges affecting sensitive appliances.
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