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View Full Version : Can you have 2 fridges in 1 outlet?


bluopal
Oct 5, 2010, 01:51 PM
Hi we want to put 2 full size fridges in the kitchen (community living) is it OK to plug them both into 1 outlet?

tkrussell
Oct 5, 2010, 03:32 PM
Electrically and code wise, sure.

There is always a chance for certain conditions that two refrigerators can cause the breaker to trip, so at your own risk.

Chances are that nothing will happen, esp during fall and winter weather. Summer could be risky.

ma0641
Oct 5, 2010, 08:34 PM
Depends on what the running amperage of the units is and are there any other appliances on the same line. Is it a 15 or 20 amp breaker? Then look on the specification plate for the unit. It tells you the amperage. A 14 AWG wire is 15AMPS and a 12AWG is 20AMPS. So, 2 refrigerators at 7 Amps is 14 Amps, acceptable for 14 AWG as long as nothing else is on the same circuit. I just wired a line for a shelter. 2 refrigerators, 13 AMPS, put 2 single outlets on a 12 AWG. That way, nothing else can be put on the line. Personally, I would make sure it is a dedicated line since residential kitchen circuits can include the refrigerator and then people put on the coffee pots and microwave and BINGO, blows the breaker. Better safe than sorry.