7 appliances you should never plug into a power strip or extension cord

Extension cords and power strips are fixtures in many homes and are used daily to power everything from phone chargers to toasters.

But many common household appliances put far more strain on the power grid than you might think, and if used incorrectly can lead to overheating and, in the worst case, fire.

According to an electrician who has shared his experience with several European media outlets, there are seven appliances that should never be plugged into an extension cord or a power strip.

Most of those sockets are designed for a maximum load of 1,800 watts.

If you exceed this limit, you risk overheating and damaging the wires.

The problem becomes even worse if you connect multiple sockets or extension cords together.

Here are the appliances you should keep away from the socket

1. Deep fryers and mini ovens: These compact kitchen appliances can reach up to 2,000 watts when heating up.
   The high power combined with long heating times make them unsuitable for electrical outlets.
2. Microwave ovens and toasters: Both appliances have high power peaks at start-up and can exceed 1,500 watts.
   The voltage fluctuations wear down the socket and increase the risk of short circuits.
3. Refrigerators and freezers: Although they seem stable, they regularly have start-up currents that require direct connection to wall outlets. Voltage fluctuations from sockets can damage the compressor and shorten its lifespan.
4. Portable heaters: Electric radiators, fans and convectors typically use between 2,000 and 2,500 watts.
   Every year there are reports of fires caused by overheated sockets used for these appliances.
5. Portable air conditioners: These units often draw over 2,000 watts and have many active components. Extension cords can’t handle the load and risk melting or short-circuiting.
6. Hair dryers and styling equipment: A hair dryer can reach up to 2,000 watts in seconds.
   Combined with humidity and heat in the bathroom, it’s a risky cocktail, especially if you use an extension cord.
7. Dishwashers and washing machines: Both appliances draw high currents, especially during heating.
   A washing machine can reach 2,300 watts, which far exceeds the limit of a standard wall socket.

How to use power sockets safely

The experts recommend the following precautions:

• Only connect low-energy devices such as lamps, chargers and TVs to power sockets.
• Avoid connecting multiple sockets or extension cords together.
• Never use power strips for appliances with more than 1,500 watts of power.
• Check regularly for discolored or damaged cords.
• Use sockets with overload protection.

The conclusion is simple: powerful appliances should always be plugged directly into the wall socket.

Sockets are convenient, but they are not designed to carry heavy loads.