To determine the appropriate size breaker for a refrigerator, you need to consider its electrical requirements. Most residential refrigerators in the United States operate on a standard 120-volt circuit.
Typically, refrigerators have a maximum power consumption ranging from 300 to 800 watts, depending on the model and size. To calculate the breaker size, you can use the formula:
Breaker size (in amps) = Power consumption (in watts) / Voltage (in volts)
For example, let's assume your refrigerator consumes 500 watts:
Breaker size = 500 watts / 120 volts = 4.17 amps
In this case, you would need a 5-amp breaker for your refrigerator. Since standard breaker sizes come in increments of 5 amps, you would use a 5-amp breaker or the next available standard size, which is typically 15 amps for most residential applications.
Remember, it's essential to consult a qualified electrician or refer to the refrigerator's documentation for precise information on electrical requirements, as they can vary depending on the specific model.