These days, mini-fridges are becoming increasingly fashionable. This is especially true for those who live in smaller flats and those who enjoy traveling. Compared to standard refrigerators, mini-refrigerators have several advantages because they can be utilized in places where a larger refrigerator would be inconvenient. Cars, hotels, homes, offices, and dorms all benefit from mini-fridges.
On the other hand, can a mini-fridge be plugged into a surge protector? In this short guide, we’ll provide you with an in-depth review of the issues associated with plugging a mini fridge into a surge protector. Furthermore, the guide will explain why a mini fridge should be plugged into a surge protector and what surge protectors are, and how they work.
Can You Plug a Mini Fridge into a Surge Protector?
Yes, you can use a surge protector with your mini-fridge. Surge protectors have been approved for use with mini-fridges and can safeguard your gadget from surges or spikes. However, connecting your mini fridge to a power surge protector should not be considered a good idea. This is true for large refrigerators as well.
What is the Problem with the Use of Surge Protectors?
There are various reasons why using a surge protector with your mini-fridge is not recommended. First, your refrigerator’s compressor is sensitive to temperature and current overloads, and if it is exposed to either, your fridge will shut down immediately.
A surge protector may also have the potential to override the systems built into a fridge. This means that if there is a power surge, your fridge may not be able to restart, and you may end up with an unintended problem with the food stored inside.
Why Should You Use a Surge Protector?
Surge protectors are primarily used to safeguard your appliances from power surges. Surges are mostly generated by variations in power, which can be recognized and handled automatically by surge protectors attached to your devices.
A power surge might occur when electronic equipment with high power, such as refrigerators and ovens, are all plugged into the same outlet. This may cause spikes in current to allow these gadgets to operate. Surges can also occur in the home due to faulty electrical connections.
A power surge can raise the voltage of an electricity flow above the designated level, which is 120 volts. When the power fluctuates, especially when it rises over these thresholds, a power surge might occur, causing damage to your appliances.
What is a Surge Protector?
A surge protector is an electrical appliance that protects electrical devices and equipment against power surges or voltage spikes. It can also block any voltage greater than 120 volts, which is the safe, designated level. The high voltages can shorten the device’s lifespan, burn the wires, wipe out previously stored data, or permanently harm the appliances.
A surge protector is a long, thin piece of plastic with multiple receptacles into which you can plug your equipment. It also comes with a cord that plugs it into a wall socket. A surge protector with a unit of up to 1000 joules is suitable for a mini-fridge.
How Does a Surge Protector Function?
A steady electricity voltage is required by the gadgets you plug into your electrical sockets. Unfortunately, your sockets are unable to provide consistent power. Surge protectors protect your electronic equipment from voltage fluctuations by rerouting dangerous power so that only the appropriate amount of electricity passes through them.
The standard voltage in most residential and commercial areas in the United States is 120 volts. When the voltage exceeds 120 volts, a surge protector kicks in to prevent the excessive voltage from harming whatever is plugged in by directing the extra voltage to the grounding wire inside the protector.
Is a Surge Protector Similar to a Power Strip?
Even though a power surge protector resembles a power strip, a surge protector is safer and more helpful. A power strip merely provides additional outlet space. On the other hand, a surge protector is a device that protects against voltage surges. Look for the joules rating on the packaging to ensure you’re buying a surge protector; a power strip won’t have this. Joules are units of energy measurement, and depending on the strength of the surge, they will inform you how long your equipment will be protected.
What are the Features of a Power Surge Protector?
The following are some of the characteristics of a power surge protector.
- Typically, a surge protector is a Zener diode that protects the circuit from spikes. It’s also available with a transient voltage suppression diode in a submerged version.
- Because it is made out of an iron core that only transfers alternating current electricity, a surge protector cannot withstand abrupt surges.
- Like a filter or a bypass, a surge protector can offer a smooth electric flow to your equipment by removing spikes and surges.
- If the circuit breaker isn’t working properly, a surge protector protects your equipment from surges.
- The presence of a metal oxide varistor (MOV) in the surge can also be used to limit excessive voltage. Some surge protectors also come with a warranty package that states that if an appliance connected to the surge protector is damaged, the surge protector’s manufacturer is responsible and would reimburse you by repairing both the surge protector and the devices connected to it.
- Nowadays, most appliances are equipped with these safety devices to safeguard them from unwanted spikes and surges.
Conclusion
We’ve answered the question “can you connect a mini fridge into a surge protector?” with an in-depth review of the reasons and needs for plugging a mini fridge into a surge protector in this quick guide. Furthermore, we’ve talked about the issues that can develop while plugging a mini fridge into a surge protector, what a surge protector is, how it works, and the most significant characteristics of a surge protector.