When it comes to the amp draw of a fridge, there is no single measure. Common household refrigerators can draw 3-8 amps, while restaurant commercial fridges can draw up to 20 Amps.

The number of amps a refrigerator uses can vary depending on its size, type, and model. 

As a rule, standard household refrigerators typically use between 3 and 8 amps of electrical power when the compressor is running. However, larger commercial refrigerators can draw more amps.

Here are some rough guidelines for different types of refrigerators:

• Mini refrigerators: Generally consume around 1 to 2 amps.
• Top-freezer refrigerators: Usually range between 3 and 4 amps.
• Side-by-side refrigerators: Can go up to 7 or 8 amps.
• French door refrigerators: Tend to be in the range of 4 to 6 amps.
• Commercial refrigerators: Can consume upwards of 10 to 20 amps or more, depending on the size and type.

The amp draw of your fridge can depend on the fridge's efficiency and even the presence of additional features, such as ice makers and water dispensers. When in doubt, look into the owner's manual or the nameplate typically located on the back or side of the fridge. 

Calculating Formula For A Fridge Power Consumption

To calculate the power consumption, you can use the formula P=IV, where P is power in watts, I is current in amps, and V is voltage in volts. The standard voltage for most household appliances in the United States is 120V. Therefore, a refrigerator drawing five amps would consume 5 amps×120 volts=600 watts when the compressor is running.

Which Size Wire For a Refrigerator?

 In the United States, a common household refrigerator typically requires a 15-amp or 20-amp circuit, and many homes are set up with 15- or 20-amp circuits for kitchen appliances.

Here's a general guide to wire gauges and their corresponding ampacities for copper conductors in a residential setting, which may help you choose the correct wire:

• 14-gauge wire is suitable for up to 15 amps
• 12-gauge wire is suitable for up to 20 amps
• 10-gauge wire is suitable for up to 30 amps

It's generally a good idea to size the wire so that its ampacity exceeds the appliance's requirements to add a margin of safety. For example, if your refrigerator draws eight amps, a 14-gauge wire with a 15-amp circuit should be adequate in most cases. However, a 12-gauge wire with a 20-amp circuit may be required for safety reasons if the risk of a circuit overload is too high otherwise. 

A 10-gauge wire is usually an overkill for most refrigerators, but it can be used in commercial settings.

! Note that copper wire should be used for refrigerators!

Do Freezers and Fridges Need a Dedicated Circuit?

It is recommended for the freezers and fridges to have a dedicated circuit. This is because refrigerators cycle on and off, and when they turn on, they can draw more current. Sharing a circuit with other appliances can lead to the circuit being overloaded, which can trip the circuit breaker. Moreover, a dedicated circuit ensures that your refrigerator receives a stable supply of electricity.

Types of Cables Used For Refrigerators

NM-B Romex is the most common type of cable for refrigerators in the United States. Most common sizes of these cables used for refrigerator circuits are 14 AWG and 12 AWG.

They are:

1. NM-B Cable (Non-Metallic Type B): This is the most commonly used residential wiring, suitable for dry, indoor locations. It can be used for 15-amp or 20-amp circuits.
2. UF-B Cable (Underground Feeder): If the refrigerator is in a damp area, you might consider using UF-B cable, similar to NM-B but rated for damp locations and can be buried underground.
3. THHN/THWN: You can use THHN for a refrigerator in case conduit is required for a particular fridge installation by a local code. This can happen if your refrigerator is in an outdoor kitchen, attic, or another area exposed to moisture.
4. Metal-Clad (MC) or Armored (AC) Cable: These are suitable for where extra protection against physical damage is required.