The main difference between a refrigerator that is plugged into a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlet and one that has a GFCI outlet built-in is in the nature of the GFCI protection and its location.
Refrigerator Plugged into a GFCI Outlet:
- In this setup, the refrigerator is plugged into a regular electrical outlet with a GFCI receptacle installed on the circuit. The GFCI outlet provides protection to the entire circuit, including the refrigerator.
- GFCI outlets are designed to quickly shut off power to the circuit if they detect a ground fault or an imbalance in the electrical current. This helps prevent electrical shocks and potential hazards, especially in wet or damp locations like kitchens.
- However, it's worth noting that refrigerators, especially older models, can sometimes trigger false GFCI trips due to the inherent electrical characteristics of the compressor motor. This could lead to unexpected power loss and spoilage of perishable items. To address this issue, some people prefer using a regular outlet for their refrigerators instead of a GFCI outlet. However, local electrical codes and regulations should be followed when making this decision.
Refrigerator with a Built-in GFCI Outlet:
- Some modern refrigerators come equipped with a GFCI outlet built directly into the appliance. This means the GFCI protection is integrated into the refrigerator itself.
- The built-in GFCI outlet is usually located on the exterior of the refrigerator, near the power cord or on the control panel. It looks similar to a regular GFCI outlet with a Test and Reset button.
- The purpose of the built-in GFCI outlet is the same as that of a regular GFCI outlet: to provide protection against ground faults and electrical hazards.
- If a fault or imbalance is detected, the built-in GFCI will trip and shut off power to the refrigerator, just like a regular GFCI outlet.
In summary, the primary difference lies in the location of the GFCI protection. With a refrigerator plugged into a GFCI outlet, the GFCI protection is external and applies to the entire circuit. On the other hand, with a refrigerator that has a built-in GFCI outlet, the protection is internal and specifically designed for that appliance. Both options aim to enhance electrical safety and reduce the risk of electrical accidents.