U-Line Refrigerator Keeps Tripping the Breaker or GFCI: What to Do

When a breaker or GFCI outlet keeps shutting off, the refrigerator on that circuit can warm quickly, and the cause might involve more than the appliance. Treat repeated tripping as a safety matter, not an annoyance.

What to do first

1. Move food and drinks to a cooler or another refrigerator if the unit stays off.
2. Unplug the refrigerator before resetting the breaker or outlet.
3. Reset the breaker or GFCI with the unit unplugged. If it holds, the problem may be the refrigerator or its cord.
4. Plug the unit in again by itself. If the trip returns right away, leave it unplugged.

Common reasons for tripping

• A wet or damaged power cord, often from a spill or a leak under the cabinet
• Water reaching the electrical parts behind the grille
• Too many appliances sharing one circuit, such as a bar refrigerator, blender and ice machine
• A GFCI outlet that has worn out or is sensitive to moisture
• A heating part or motor inside the refrigerator that is failing

What not to do

• Do not use extension cords or power strips as a workaround
• Do not tape or bypass a GFCI or breaker to keep it from tripping
• Do not touch the unit if the floor or cabinet is wet
• Do not keep resetting a breaker that trips every time

Breakers and GFCI devices exist to stop dangerous current. Overriding one risks shock or fire. If the unit trips with nothing else on the circuit, the refrigerator needs inspection. If it trips only when other things run, an electrician should look at the circuit.

Our technicians can test the refrigerator, cord and electrical parts to find out whether the unit or the circuit is the cause. Request refrigerator service and you will receive a written price before any work, plus a 30-day workmanship warranty. Check our service area for your neighborhood.