Do you have a Mini Fridge? But you have no space for it near a wall plug? This brings up the dilemma of whether you can plug your mini-fridge into an extension cord.
The short answer is yes, you can plug your Mini Fridge into an extension cord. But this is only possible if you have a heavy-duty extension cord. Heavy-duty extension cords are made to be able to withstand large power requirements. Fridges need a large amount of power, so a conventional extension cord will most probably overheat and cause a fire.
Negative Implications Of Using An Extension Cord
Damage
Plugging your mini-fridge into an extension cord can reduce the useful life of your fridge. Power fluctuations apply a whole lot of pressure on your mini fridge’s compressors. Your mini fridge’s motor will also be affected by the lack of sufficient voltage.
The strain that the extension cord puts on your mini fridge will cause it to stop working much sooner than it would if you plugged it directly into a wall plug.
Fire Hazard
If you use an extension cord that is incapable of meeting the power requirements of your mini-fridge, your cord will heat up. Once your extension cord begins to heat up, it can cause a fire. This will put you and your family in danger.
If nobody is home at the time of the fire, your property will be severely damaged.
Non-operational
Plugging your mini-fridge into an extension cord can prevent it from receiving the power needed. Your mini fridge will not operate unless it has the power that it requires. Even if it operates for a moment, it does not mean that it will continue to operate as it should.
When you use a long extension cord, your mini-fridge will have to work harder to get the power that it needs. The longer the extension cord, the harder your fridge must work. This is because longer cables have put more resistance on electricity.
The Proper Way To Use A Mini Fridge With An Extension Cord
Use A Grounded Extension Cord
You can identify a grounded extension cord based on the number of prongs that it has. A three-prong extension cord is grounded. The ground prong is essential when using appliances that are metal-cased.
The ground wire prevents metal-cased appliances from being electrically charged when a wire comes loose. If you do not use a grounded extension cord, the shock from the metal-casing can severely harm you. In the worst-case scenario, this shock could kill you.
Ensure That You Have A Low-Gauge Extension Cord
A low-gauge extension cord is a thick extension. The gauge of an extension cord indicates the thickness of the cord. Extension cords with lower gauge numbers are thicker than those with high gauge numbers.
If you want to plug your mini-fridge into an extension cord, then you will need a 14-gauge extension cord. You can use an extension cord with a lower gauge. But I would not suggest going any higher than 14 gauge.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to plug my mini-fridge into an extension cord?
If you use the correct extension cord, then it is safe. But if your extension cord cannot support the power requirements of your mini-fridge then it is not safe because it can cause a fire. It is also not safe to use an extension cord that is not grounded, because it can lead to electrocution.
Can I plug my Mini Fridge into any outlet?
Yes, you can plug your mini fridge into any outlet. But you need to ensure that the outlet is a three-pronged socket. This will prevent the occurrence of any unfortunate electrical accidents associated with non-grounded appliances.
Is it safe to plug my Mini Fridge and microwave into the same outlet?
Yes, your mini-fridge and microwave can share the same outlet. Mini fridges do not require as much power and regular fridges or refrigerators. Mini fridges do not require dedicated circuits.
How long can I use my Mini Fridge with an extension cord?
As long as the extension cord is correctly rated for your mini fridge’s power requirements, then you can use it for more or less the specified lifespan. But, if you are not using an appropriate extension cord the lifespan of your mini-fridge will be significantly reduced.
