ICC Residential Electrical Inspectors Practice Exam

Which of the following installations would require a separate branch circuit?

1. A refrigerator

2. A microwave

3. A lamp

4. A telephone charger

The correct answer is: A refrigerator

A refrigerator typically requires a separate branch circuit due to its high starting and running electrical demand. Refrigerators often have compressors that draw significantly more power when they first start up, which can be a substantial load on the circuit. To reduce the risk of overloading, tripping breakers, or causing voltage drops that could affect other appliances, it is necessary to provide a dedicated circuit specifically for the refrigerator. This requirement helps ensure that the refrigerator operates efficiently and safely, allowing it to maintain the necessary conditions for food storage without interruption. Additionally, local electrical codes often specify that certain appliances, particularly those with higher power demands like refrigerators, need their own circuit to enhance safety and performance in residential wiring systems.