Can you imagine any Indian home without a refrigerator? The answer is NO. Refrigerators have become necessities today instead of luxuries. Since your fridge runs 24 x 7 x 365, they need protection from voltage fluctuations. Therefore, investing in a voltage stabilizer is a wise thing to do. This article discusses whether stabilizers are required for refrigerators.
The Simple Answer
Whenever you purchase a refrigerator, the first thought that usually comes to mind is whether you should invest in a voltage stabilizer. But it depends on various factors, like
- The electricity power distribution quality in your area – whether there are frequent voltage fluctuations? If the answer is YES, you will need a voltage stabilizer for your refrigerator.
- The type of refrigerator you purchase – whether it is equipped with an inbuilt stabilizer or offers stabilizer-free operations? Now, the question is tricky. First, you should understand the difference between the terms ‘Inbuilt Stabilizer’ and ‘Stabilizer-free Operations.’ Then, let us explore these concepts in detail.
Before we discuss these concepts, let us see why you need a voltage stabilizer for a refrigerator.
Voltage Stabilizer – Why?
Generally, the input and output voltage in Indian homes is around 230 Volts. However, the power distribution is not always consistent, especially in smaller towns. So, the input voltage can drop or shoot up sufficiently without warning. Under such circumstances, expensive electrical equipment like refrigerators can damage, leading to costly repairs. So it would help if you had a voltage stabilizer.
The voltage stabilizer stabilizes the voltage distribution to the appliance and maintains it at the optimum level, irrespective of the input voltage strength. It ensures that your machine receives the voltage required for proper functioning.
Depending on their capacity, voltage stabilizers can work in an extensive voltage range from 70V to 300V. The job of the voltage stabilizer is to maintain the output voltage at 230V, irrespective of the input voltage. So, if the input voltage is less than 230V, it functions as a step-up voltage stabilizer. On the contrary, if the input voltage exceeds 230V, it works as a step-down voltage stabilizer.
Since the voltage stabilizer concept is clear, we shall understand the difference between ‘Inbuilt Stabilizer’ and ‘Stabilizer-free’ operations.
Inbuilt Stabilizer Vs. Stabilizer-free
Today, some refrigerators feature an inbuilt stabilizer to take care of voltage fluctuations. They function similarly to external voltage stabilizers. Hence, such refrigerators do not need a separate external voltage stabilizer. However, there is no harm if you have one.
On the other hand, some of the top refrigerator brands offer ‘stabilizer-free’ operations. These refrigerators have specialized compressors that can work even under voltage fluctuations. However, the manufacturers declare the permissible voltage range on the device. Therefore, the fridge will require an external voltage stabilizer if the voltage fluctuation exceeds these limits.
For example, suppose your refrigerator says that it can work within a voltage range of 160V to 250V. Under such circumstances, an external voltage stabilizer will be needed if the input voltage is less than 160V or above 250V. Otherwise, you risk damaging the appliance.
Let us now understand the benefits of using an external voltage stabilizer for your refrigerator.
Advantages of using a voltage stabilizer
Your refrigerator is an expensive appliance. External issues like voltage fluctuations can damage the device. So, here are the advantages of using an external voltage stabilizer.
- Protects against fluctuations – The voltage stabilizer prevents excessive current from flowing into the unit by stabilizing the output value and maintaining it at 230V. Excessive current can cause burnout and damage your fridge.
- Helps regularize functioning – Voltage fluctuations can cause your fridge to work abnormally. As a result, it affects its efficiency. A voltage stabilizer normalizes operations and ensures your fridge functions optimally, even during voltage fluctuations.
- Enhance energy efficiency – Voltage stabilizers ensure optimal current flow into the refrigerator, enabling it to work at its best and save energy. Thus, a voltage stabilizer can help lower power consumption and save on energy costs.
- Improve the lifespan – Power fluctuations can damage the fridge compressor and other expensive parts. A voltage stabilizer ensures proper electric supply, prevents damage to these expensive components, and enhances the refrigerator’s lifespan.
- Compatible with almost all models – External voltage stabilizers are usually compatible with all fridge models. However, we advise installing a voltage stabilizer with appropriate capacities.
- Protects the fridge during power cuts – A sudden stoppage or a surge in the current flow can damage the refrigerator’s components. A voltage stabilizer absorbs these shocks and protects the fridge from damage.
Can you use the same voltage stabilizer for all fridge models?
Generally, an external voltage stabilizer with a working capacity range between 70V and 300V should be ideal for all refrigerator models. Smaller refrigerator models up to 300L capacity can work with a 500VA stabilizer, whereas larger appliances require 1000VA or 1500VA stabilizers.
Final Words
A voltage stabilizer protects your refrigerator from voltage fluctuations. So if your input current flow experiences fluctuations, it is advisable to install a voltage stabilizer. But if there are no noticeable voltage fluctuations in your area, you can dispense with its use.