Why Your Refrigerator Keeps Tripping the Circuit Breaker

At Colorado Electricians, we know a thing or two about appliance circuit breakers thanks to our industry expertise and experience. In this guide, you’ll learn how to diagnose circuit breaker trips from your refrigerator.

Step 1: Start by Looking for a Pattern

The first step is determining when the breaker trips. Does it happen after plugging the refrigerator in? Does it occur while the compressor starts? Does it happen during the automatic defrost cycle? Or does it seem completely random?

Noticing a pattern helps narrow down the cause. For example, if the breaker trips every few hours, the defrost heater may be the issue. If it trips when the compressor starts, the compressor or start components may be drawing excessive current.

Step 2: Rule out Circuit Overload

If the breaker only trips when the refrigerator is running alongside other devices, the circuit is likely overloaded. Every circuit has a maximum fixed capacity (usually 15 or 20 amps). High-wattage items like space heaters, microwaves, air conditioners, refrigerators, and hair dryers pull massive amounts of power. When combined, the total wattage exceeds the circuit's safe limit. So, what’s the fix for circuit overloading? Move high-wattage appliances to different, independent circuits. High-draw appliances should be plugged into dedicated circuits to prevent system strain.

Step 3: Check for Ground Faults

If the appliance trips the breaker as soon as you turn it on or immediately when it touches water/moisture, it is likely a ground fault. A "hot" electrical wire has made accidental contact with the grounded metal casing of the appliance or the system's ground wire. This is particularly dangerous in kitchens and bathrooms, and will quickly trip GFCI outlets or breakers. Inspect the appliance’s power cord for nicks, melting, or exposed wires. Do not continue to use the appliance. Have a professional electrical repair service find the source of ground faults and address the root cause.

Step 4: Inspect for a Short Circuit

If the breaker trips instantly with a loud pop or burning smell when the appliance is plugged in or switched on, you have a short circuit. Internal wires inside the refrigerator are touching, bypassing normal electrical resistance. The best thing to do is to unplug the appliance immediately and discontinue use. It will require an internal repair or replacement. Call a trusted electrical repair service to find the source of trouble and make the necessary repairs.

Step 5: Check for A Weak or Defective Breaker

Sometimes the refrigerator isn't the problem at all. Appliance circuit breakers wear out after years of use. An aging breaker may become overly sensitive and trip even when the refrigerator is operating within normal electrical limits. An electrician can test the breaker to determine whether it is functioning correctly before replacing other components unnecessarily. The average lifespan of appliance circuit breakers ranges from 15 to 40 years. If you’ve noticed frequent tripping, scorch marks, heat, failure to reset, or physical damage, it may be time to replace the breakers.

Contact Colorado Electricians for Help with Fixing Appliance Circuit Breakers

If a breaker in your home keeps tripping, it is a warning sign that you need to do something before a disaster strikes. A licensed and experienced electrician can help you find the root cause, whether it is a worn-out breaker, bad wiring, or an undersized panel. If you need help diagnosing or repairing appliance circuit breakers, get in touch with the team at Colorado Electricians.