Have you ever considered the risks of plugging electrical appliances into power strips? While it may be convenient and cost-effective, there are certain dangers involved. Overloading the power strip or plugging in energy-consuming devices can lead to damages, power outages, and even fires. Don’t believe me? It happened to me, and since then, I’ve been extremely cautious. Let’s explore the 9 devices that should never be plugged into a power strip.
First, Check the Maximum Power
Before we dive into the list, it’s important to understand the maximum power that a power strip can handle. This information can usually be found on the power cable. To ensure safety, add up the power consumption of each device that will be plugged into the power strip.
“But how do I know the power consumption of each device?” you may ask. Well, it’s as simple as checking the label on each appliance. Let’s say your power strip can handle a maximum power of 3500 W. If you plug in an oven that consumes 2500 W, a vacuum cleaner consuming 800 W, and a kettle consuming 250 W, you would exceed the limit (2500 + 800 + 250 = 3550 W). In this case, you must unplug one of the devices to stay below the power threshold. Ignoring this can be extremely dangerous. Now, let’s explore the devices that should never be connected to a power strip.
1. The Oven
The oven is undoubtedly one of the most energy-intensive household appliances. Even if you don’t use it regularly, it’s crucial not to plug it into a power strip. To prevent dangerous overheating, it’s better to provide a dedicated wall outlet specifically for the oven.
2. The Refrigerator and Freezer
Although the refrigerator may not consume an excessive amount of energy, it runs continuously, sending electrical voltage to the power strip 24/7. Consequently, plugging the refrigerator or freezer into an extension cord is a big no-no. To ensure their proper operation and eliminate any risk of short-circuiting, they should be directly connected to a wall outlet.
3. The Washing Machine and Tumble Dryer
On average, a washing machine consumes a significant amount of energy, approximately 1150 kWh per year. Therefore, plugging it into a power strip is not recommended. The same goes for tumble dryers. These power-hungry appliances can overload the power strip and should be connected to a wall outlet.
4. Auxiliary Heating
While it’s fine to use auxiliary heating devices, always remember to plug them directly into a wall outlet. Plugging them into a power strip can quickly overload it and create unnecessary risks.
5. The Microwave
Don’t be deceived by this small metal box; microwaves consume a considerable amount of energy. On average, a microwave uses 70 kWh per year. To avoid any potential issues, it’s best to avoid plugging it into an extension cord and connect it directly to a wall outlet.
6. The Coffee Maker
Even though a coffee maker may seem like a small and harmless appliance, it actually consumes quite a bit of electricity. Its estimated annual consumption is around 165 kWh. To ensure its proper functioning, it’s best to plug it directly into a wall outlet.
7. The Toaster
If you enjoy toasting buns every morning, you might be surprised to learn that a toaster consumes between 500 and 1000 W per year! That’s quite a lot for such a small device. Hence, it’s advisable not to plug it into a power strip.
8. Multiple Extensions
Do you have a multitude of electrical appliances that need to be plugged in? Perhaps using multiple extensions connected to one another may seem like a quick solution, but it’s actually a very bad idea. By doing so, you quickly exceed the maximum power limit of the power strip. This practice is not only unsafe but also a common cause of domestic fires.
9. Internet Box, Computer, and TV
While the internet box, computer, and TV may not consume a significant amount of electricity individually, they are sensitive to electrical problems such as overvoltage. To protect these devices, it’s best to avoid plugging them into a power strip and opt for a surge protector instead.
In conclusion, now you know which devices you should never plug into a power strip. Although the chances of fire are fortunately quite low, it’s always better to prevent than to cure. By being cautious and mindful of the devices you connect to a power strip, you can ensure the safety and durability of your electrical appliances.
