Sage-Tips

Do you need a GFCI for a freezer in a garage?

A. That “protector outlet” you’re referring to is a GFCI, or “Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter” receptacle, and GFCI’s are required by building code in garages, kitchens, bathrooms, and on the exterior of new homes. So freezers and refrigerators should never be plugged into GFCI’s.

Can you plug a refrigerator into a non-GFCI outlet?

In a dwelling unit (residential), GFCI protection is only required for kitchen receptacles that serve the countertop surfaces. There’s no requirement to GFCI protect receptacles that serve a refrigerator. Unless the fridge is plugged into a countertop receptacle.

Can I install a non-GFCI outlet in my garage?

Our electrician told us that since 2008 you cannot have a non-GFCI outlet in your garage. Non-GFCI outlets are a safety hazard when they are installed in garages, so it is definitely better for them not to allow them in garages, but it does cause quite a bit of inconvenience when it comes to plugging in a refrigerator!

Do all receptacles in garage need to be GFCI?

All garage outlets must be GFCI. Ground-fault circuit interrupters protect users against shock by cutting off the power when they sense a short. It is an electrical violation to have non-GFCI outlets in your garage. It’s important to install GFCI outlets so that you stay safe.

What happens if you put a freezer in a garage?

Changes in temperature in an unheated garage can be a problem. If your freezer’s compressor has to work overtime to maintain its interior temperature when it’s very hot in your garage, it costs you more to run the appliance. If it’s too cold and the compressor shuts off, your food could thaw.

Do freezers need a special outlet?

An upright or chest freezer should always be plugged into its own individual electrical outlet which has a voltage rating that matches the rating plate. A 115 Volt AC, 60 Hz, 15- or 20- amp, fused, grounded electrical supply is required. The upright or chest freezer must be properly grounded.

Does garage fridge need dedicated circuit?

You should have refrigerators and freezers installed on a 15-20 amp dedicated 120 volt circuit. Keep in mind that even if you don’t place your freezer or refrigerator in your garage, it is still required that freezers be on a dedicated 120 volt circuit.

Do I need weather resistant GFCI in garage?

Weather Resistant GFCI Required by 2008 National Electrical Code for use in damp or wet areas including: Patios, decks, porches, pool areas, garages, yards, and other outdoor damp locations. When installing a weather resistant GFCI in a damp location remember that you must also use a weather resistant cover.

Where is GFCI located in garage?

The actual verbiage from the NEC states that GFCI outlets be installed in: “Garages, and also accessory buildings that have a floor located at or below grade level not intended as habitable rooms and limited to storage areas, work areas, and areas of similar use.”

How many GFCI do I need in garage?

One GFCI will protect all the outlets that come after it on one circuit, if wired to do that. Make it the first outlet in line, done, you probably need at most 3 for your 12 outlets, if that many.

Why are fridges not suitable for garages?

If the garage space is uninsulated or too cold, the freezing temperatures will trick the freezer into thinking it has reached the desired level of refrigeration and it may fail to turn on, which could result in damage to the unit and food spoilage.

Can you put a non GFCI outlet in a garage door?

Your garage may not offer a non-GFCI option. If this is the case, you can tap off the line side of the GFCI and install a new simplex receptacle next to the freezer. You also may be able to just replace one outlet with a non-gfci outlet and move the GFCI outlet, depending on how the circuit is laid out.

Can you plug a fridge into a non GFCI?

If the fridge works, it has an internal ground fault and should not be used until it is properly repaired. So, the first option is to not use the appliance. 2. The second option is to plug it into a non-GFCI outlet. Obviously this makes it impossible to trip the GFCI.

Can I replace a GFCI outlet with a simplex outlet?

If this is the case, you can tap off the line side of the GFCI and install a new simplex receptacle next to the freezer. You also may be able to just replace one outlet with a non-gfci outlet and move the GFCI outlet, depending on how the circuit is laid out.

Why is my refrigerator or freezer Tripping the GFCI in the garage?

There are many reasons a refrigerator or freezer might be tripping the GFCI in the garage. The most common one is the appliance is older and may have damage. Another issue may be an overloaded circuit.