A Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) is an important safety device that’s designed to protect you from electrical shocks and other hazards. If your refrigerator trips the GFCI, it can be a sign of a problem that needs to be addressed.
This article will discuss the reasons behind refrigerator circuit trips and how you can fix them.
Contents
What Is GFCI?
A GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) is a safety device that protects against electrical shock by quickly shutting off power to a circuit when it detects an imbalance between the hot and neutral wires. This device is designed to protect people from electrical shock by quickly breaking the circuit if it senses a ground fault, which can occur when electrical current strays from its intended path.
Causes of Refrigerator Circuit Trips
There are a number of factors that can cause a refrigerator circuit to trip the GFCI outlet. We’ve included some of the most common causes, below.
Check for Overloading
The first thing you should check is if the outlet is overloaded. If there are too many appliances plugged into one outlet, it can cause a circuit trip. Try unplugging some of the appliances and see if the problem persists.
Check for Short Circuits
A short circuit can also cause a circuit trip. To check for a short circuit, unplug the refrigerator and use a multimeter to test the continuity of the wires. The wires will show a low resistance reading if there is a short circuit.
Check for Ground Fault
A ground fault can also cause a circuit trip. To check for a ground fault, unplug the refrigerator and use a multimeter to test the continuity of the ground wire. The multimeter will show a low resistance reading if there is a ground fault.
Replace the Outlet
If the problem persists even after checking for the above causes, it might be time to replace the outlet. A faulty outlet can cause a circuit trip, so replacing it with a new one might fix the issue.
Incorrect Circuit Size
If the circuit breaker for the refrigerator is not sized correctly for the appliance, it can cause the GFCI to trip frequently. This is because the breaker is not able to handle the amount of current the refrigerator requires. If you suspect an incorrect circuit size, consult an electrician to have the circuit breaker replaced.
Conclusion
A refrigerator circuit trip can be a major inconvenience, but it is usually a simple problem to fix. Following the steps outlined in this article, you can troubleshoot the issue and prevent it from happening again.
