Gina Heslop
Power strips serve as a convenient solution for expanding electrical outlets, but there are crucial guidelines to follow.
First and foremost, avoid plugging power-hungry appliances into them, especially those prone to overheating, like toasters or space heaters. Never use an indoor power strip in damp areas, such as kitchens, to prevent potential damage.
Ensure the devices plugged into a power strip don’t exceed its maximum wattage, usually 15 amps or 1,800 watts. If more power is needed, opt for a 20-amp strip capable of handling up to 2,400 watts. Here’s a detailed look at 15 things you should never plug into a power strip:
- Refrigerators: They can overload a power strip and should be connected to a designated outlet.
- Microwaves: Require a dedicated electrical outlet due to their high energy consumption.
- Coffee Makers: Need a significant amount of amperage and should be plugged directly into an outlet.
- Kitchen Range Hoods: The high temperatures of toaster wires can cause power strips to overheat.
- Slow Cookers: Use more power over extended periods than a standard power strip can provide.
- Hair-Care Appliances: Flat irons, curling wands, and hair dryers draw substantial electricity.
- Air Conditioners: Portable units draw a significant current, risking overheating or tripping the strip.
- Sump Pumps: Not suitable for power strips due to moisture concerns during potential flooding.
- Air Compressors: Use a sturdy extension cable instead of straining a power strip.
- Another Power Strip: Avoid “daisy-chaining” or using multiple power strips simultaneously.
- Juicers: Powerful motors pose a risk, and there’s potential for the strip to get wet.
- Washing Machine: The high wattage consumption is near the maximum load capacity of power strips.
- Portable Heaters: Long operation periods on high settings can lead to overheating.
- Power Tools: Use a 220-volt strip with grounded outlets for heavy-duty tools.
- Gaming Equipment: Be cautious not to overload the strip with too many gaming components.
Adhering to these guidelines ensures the safe and efficient use of power strips, preventing potential hazards and ensuring the longevity of your electronic devices.
