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Bobsgarage · May 21, 2008, 08:26 AM

Help please! Outlet worked for old refrig, but not the used, bigger refrig I just bought.
One person told me to place a 1" piece of wood under the wheels... something about
Grounding (GFI) it. Would that be safe? Refrig works in other outlets but not the one where
The refrig sits.

donf · May 21, 2008, 10:33 AM

I suggest that you get two sky hooks and a scaffold with a winch. To jack up the garage and put steel pinions under the floor. :)

First things first, do you have a AC Volt Ohm meter to test the output of the receptacle behind the refrig. Is it hot? Is the outlet controlled by a switch on the wall? Also check that the Circuit Breaker for this branch circuit is in the "ON" position.

Next, check the metal plate on the refrig and see what the required Voltage and amps are.

Bobsgarage · May 21, 2008, 11:10 AM

Hi DonF. :) I don't have a AC Volt Ohm meter. The refrig says 115 VAC, and 10 AMPs.
The receptacle is working. Previous frige worked, and fan (plugged in) works.
There is no wall switch for this plug. Breakers are on. It is a standard outlet.

... I need help finding the sky hooks. *grin*

ceilingfanrepair · May 21, 2008, 11:19 AM

So, new fridge works in other outlets, but not this one? Other items work in this outlet, but not the new fridge?

First things first, pick up a cheap outlet tester and confirm the outlet is wired correctly. It's possible either the outlet or fridge has an open neutral or ground.

Stratmando · May 21, 2008, 12:30 PM

I wouldn't have Refrigerator on a GFI unless a code change requires it. I would verify Hot, Neutral and Ground are intact.
If it was tripping, Isolating offof ground is not preffered. Refrigerator enclosure(Metal parts)needs to be at ground potential.

Bobsgarage · May 21, 2008, 04:01 PM

DonF, Ceilingfanrepair, and Stratmando: Thanks for your responses. I've decided (after reading your replies) that I'd better not try putting a board under the fridge. ;). I'll pick up a tester for next time and call the electrician this time. (Sorry think I tossed my old ceiling fan, but will check.)Thanks again!

KISS · May 21, 2008, 04:15 PM

Ok, clean the plug with some 400 grit sandpaper and replace the outlet. A couple of bucks.
Blade thickness can contribute to non working.

Bobsgarage · May 21, 2008, 07:47 PM

Thanks for the info KeepItSimpleStupid. Lots of good ideas. Will let you all know how this turns out.

Washington1 · May 21, 2008, 08:13 PM

I have one! I have one!

Replace the referig! :) ;) or install some Goodyear tires on it. :)

<joke>

Rate my answer!! ;)

ceilingfanrepair · May 22, 2008, 10:15 AM

Putting a board under the fridge should not make a difference.

Bobsgarage · May 24, 2008, 08:10 PM

Thank you all! My fridge is now running fine with no steel pinions, tires, or boards. It had been wired through the GFI so it was on the line with other appliances, but my old one was small (less current). Have a great weekend!