Avoid plugging certain devices into a power strip to prevent potential hazards and ensure safety. While power strips offer convenience and cost-effectiveness, they can pose risks if used improperly, especially with power-hungry gadgets or when overloaded. Here are nine items you should refrain from connecting to a power strip:
1- Oven
Ovens are significant energy consumers and should never be plugged into a power strip due to their high power demand.
It’s safer to supply them through a dedicated wall outlet to avoid overheating and potential hazards.
2- Refrigerator
Despite not being the top energy consumer, refrigerators constantly draw power, making them unsuitable for power strip use.
Use an extension cable directly from the wall outlet to power your fridge or freezer.
3- Washing Machine
With an annual energy consumption of around 1,150 kWh, washing machines consume considerable power and should be connected directly to an electrical outlet to prevent overheating or short circuits.
4- Space Heaters
Supplemental heating devices draw a significant amount of power and should be plugged directly into a wall outlet to avoid overloading the power strip.
5- Microwave Oven
Despite their small size, microwaves consume around 70 kWh annually, making them unsuitable for power strip use. Connect them directly to an outlet for safety.
6- Coffee Maker
Coffee makers may seem innocuous, but with an estimated annual usage of 165 kWh, they can overload a power strip. Connect them directly to an electrical outlet.
7- Toaster
Toasters may use 500 to 1000 W annually, making them unsuitable for power strip use. It’s safer to connect them directly to an outlet.
8- Multiple Extensions
Interconnecting multiple extension cables to accommodate numerous devices can exceed the power strip’s maximum capacity, leading to potential hazards and fire risks. Avoid this practice to ensure safety.
9- Electronics with Sensitive Components
Devices like set-top boxes, desktop computers, and televisions, while not heavy power consumers individually, can malfunction if subjected to electrical issues like overvoltage.
Unless connected to a surge protector, they should be plugged directly into an outlet to prevent damage.
Remember to always check the power strip’s maximum output and the power requirements of your devices before connecting them. Safety should always be the top priority when dealing with electrical appliances.