Answer: In some cases
Explanation: A standard home refrigerator does not always require GFCI protection, but it does in certain locations under the California Electrical Code (CEC) and NEC. The requirement depends on where the refrigerator is installed, not the appliance itself.
When a refrigerator does require GFCI:
In kitchens — if the refrigerator is plugged into a kitchen countertop circuit, it must be GFCI-protected.
In garages — all 120-volt, 15- and 20-amp outlets in garages require GFCI.
In unfinished basements — GFCI is required for all outlets.
In laundry areas — if the refrigerator is located there, GFCI applies.
In outdoor or damp locations — always GFCI-protected.
When a refrigerator does not require GFCI:
Dedicated, non-countertop kitchen circuits — many refrigerators are on their own circuit, not serving countertops.
Older homes under grandfathered conditions — if no remodel or outlet replacement has occurred.
Areas not listed as GFCI-required — such as finished living spaces.
Why this matters:
GFCI trips can spoil food — so inspectors often allow refrigerators on dedicated, non-countertop circuits without GFCI.
Code focuses on location-based safety — not the appliance itself.
Modern fridges are more compatible with GFCI — but nuisance tripping can still occur with older models.
Summary
A refrigerator requires GFCI protection in some cases, depending entirely on the location. Kitchens, garages, unfinished basements, and outdoor areas require it; dedicated circuits in non-GFCI-required areas typically do not. |
| EcoWise Electric LLC |
Answer: Always
Explanation: Because of the water and potential condensation, it is required to be GFCI protected. |
| G & H Electrical Services, LLC |
Answer: Never
Explanation: Install a refrigerator on a gfci it will trip giving a false reading no motor should be on a gfci |
| Alltypes electric llc |
|
| ProMatcher |
Answer: In some cases
Explanation: If a standard home refrigerator is installed in a commercial application then yes, GFCI protection is required. In a residence GFCI protection is not required. In new construction, there will be exceptions to that based on the AHJ (authority having jurisdiction, inspector). |
| Electrical Services Plus LLC |
Answer: Always
Explanation: Yes based on the latest addition of the National Electrical Code |
| Northeast Hydro Clean |
Answer: Always
Explanation: Any kitchen circuit requires GFCI protection |
| Roche Electric & Consulting |
|
| ProMatcher |
Answer: In some cases
Explanation: Electrical code does not require refrigerators to have a GFCI outlet, but it is a good idea to use one if the outlet is in an area that may see water. |
| Construct Boss |
Answer: Never
Explanation: No it has a motor and compressor that would be affected by the GFCI. |
| D B Electric |
Answer: Never
Explanation: As long as it is installed in a kitchen, but in a garage or an unfinished basement of a Dwelling unit, the refrigerator must have a GFCI circuit. |
| My Electrician |
|
| ProMatcher |
Answer: Always
Explanation: NEC 2011 |
| Gacem Electric |
Answer: Never
Explanation: Not required |
| Kristoff Electric |
Answer: In some cases
Explanation: Most of the time should be dedicated receptacle |
| Advanced Electrical and Energy |
|
| ProMatcher |
Answer: In some cases
Explanation: Some local City codes require GFCI protection to the refrigerator. |
| LED Electrical Services |
Answer: In some cases
Explanation: it depends where it is such as outdoor patio |
| Advanced automation inc |
Answer: In most cases
Explanation: No, but with recent NEC changes yes its required |
| DiBiagio Electrical Construction llc |
|
| ProMatcher |
Answer: Never
Explanation: A good idea, but not required. |
| John's Appliance Installations |
Answer: Always
Explanation: New NEC requires! |
| EVA Electric, Inc. |