It’s hard to imagine modern life without electricity. From charging phones to running appliances, electricity powers nearly everything we use daily. But despite our heavy dependence on it, most homes don’t have enough outlets, which leads many to rely on power strips for convenience.
While power strips are useful for low-wattage devices like lamps and phone chargers, they’re not built to handle high-power appliances. Using them improperly can create dangerous fire hazards. It’s crucial to understand what devices are safe to plug in—and which ones are not.
High-wattage appliances like ovens, space heaters, and air conditioners require a dedicated wall outlet because they draw a significant amount of power. Overloading a strip with these kinds of devices can lead to overheating, short circuits, or even electrical fires.
Refrigerators, although often overlooked, also need their own outlet. They cycle on and off throughout the day, drawing large bursts of electricity that can destabilize a shared power strip and damage other connected devices.
Washing machines consume up to 1,400 watts and often run for extended periods. This continuous use increases the risk of overheating when plugged into a strip, making them another appliance that should always have a direct wall connection.
Microwaves, coffee makers, and toasters may look small but are deceptively power-hungry. They generate heat and consume high wattage instantly, which can easily overload a power strip during operation.
Another major safety tip: never daisy-chain power strips—plugging one into another can quickly overwhelm the circuit and is a common cause of household electrical fires. It also violates most building and electrical codes.
Lastly, sensitive electronics like computers and televisions should be plugged into a surge protector, not just any power strip. Surge protectors offer added defense against electrical spikes that can damage expensive equipment. Sharing this knowledge can help prevent accidents and keep homes safe from electrical hazards.
