GFEP

[Jmeredith]

I am not an electrician but I have an issue I would like to find out about. We just moved in a place and we brought our refrigerator with us so we could use it for extra storage in the garage. The problem is it keeps tripping the GFI. The GFI is a 15 amp, the refrigerator is a 9 amp so it has 6 amps to good so why does it trip the GFI? I was told maybe an equipment rated GFI would work but it would still need to be a 15 amp one. Isn't this true? If I run an extension cord thru the door and to a non GFI outlet then the refrigerator works fine. I would like to plug it in the garage outlet but it is GFI protected. How can I solve my problem? How much does a GFEP cost? This complex won't let you do to much everything is enclosed in the walls.HELP

 

[augie47]

As part o the Forum rules we are not allowed to provide information for persons not associated with the electrical field so I will only comment by stating the GFCI is doing it's job by protecting you from internal leakage in the appliance. The problem is not the circuit or protection but the refrigerator.

 

[tom baker]

Th GFCI is doing its job to protect you from a shock or electrocution. When you plug the fridge into a non GFCI receptacle, you could be shocked or killed. Older fridges and freezers are known for causing GFCIs to trip. Recycle your appliance and get a new one. You may be able to get a rebate on a more efficient model.