A power strip can be a convenient solution when you have a shortage of electrical outlets. However, most people don’t know that they are only designed to handle electronics that require little power. A power strip can handle low-power electronics such as tablets, laptops, lamps, and smartphones. However, when you plug in a divide that requires a lot of electricity to work, there is a risk of overloading it and causing an electrical fire. Here is a list of 7 things you should not plug into your power strip.
7 Things You Should NOT Plug Into Your Power Strip
You should avoid causing an electrical fire by not plugging any of the following items in your power strip.
#1 Big Kitchen Appliances
Big kitchen appliances such as refrigerators or dishwashers are high-powered appliances that will overload a little power strip very easily. Plug these types of appliances directly into a wall outlet. You should not use multi-outlet converters to plug in more things either, you are risking tripping the circuit.
These large appliances need their own dedicated outlet.
#2 Small Kitchen Appliances
Size does not matter. Even if it’s a small kitchen appliance, it may need a lot of power to function, so just like with big appliances, they should also have their own dedicated outlet when in use. This applies to coffee makers, microwaves, toasters, toaster ovens, blenders, slow cookers, etc.
#3 Hairstyling Tools
This might surprise some folks. Hairstyling tools such as flat irons, curling irons, and hairdryers actually require a lot of power to get as hot as they get. This is why they need to be plugged into a wall outlet.
#4 Other Power Strips
When you plug a power strip into another power strip, also known as daisy-chaining, you can overload the circuit and create an electrical fire. This can also happen when you plug an extension cord into a power strip or the other way around.
#5 Portable Heaters and Air Conditioners
Air conditioners and portable heaters are designed to turn on and off and require a large amount of current whenever they switch back on. This can overload a power strip and trip the circuit or cause overheating. This is why these types of appliances have to be plugged into their own outlet.
#6 Sump Pumps
In the event of flooding, a sump pump can be your solution to dry a basement. Power strips are usually not designed to be used in wet or damp conditions. This is why you should never use one for a sump pump. You should plug it into a GFCI outlet that is installed some height above the floor in case there is flooding.
#7 Air Compressors
Air compressors are helpful around the house if you are an ambitious DIYer. However, they can draw a huge amount of energy to turn on. Instead of overloading your power strip, use a heavy-duty extension cord to get the best use of your air compressor.
You should also never plug appliances that require too much power, like a hot tub. You need an electrician to install a hot tub for you.
Professional Residential Electricians in Clearwater, FL
If you need more places to plug your appliances in, at East-West Electric, we offer professional and safe outlet and wiring services in Clearwater, FL. Call us at (727) 771-9403 for more information.