The use of power strips is common in modern homes to increase the number of available electrical outlets. However, certain high-consumption electrical appliances can pose a serious risk of fire or damage to the electrical system if they are not connected safely. Below are the devices that should never be plugged into a power strip and the safety reasons behind this recommendation.
Quick Summary:
- Avoid plugging high-consumption devices into power strips.
- Large appliances such as refrigerators and microwaves require direct sockets.
- Heating appliances (toasters, coffee makers, hair dryers) can overheat the power strip.
- Sensitive equipment such as gaming computers needs surge protection.
- Appliances with high energy demands (washing machines, power tools, air conditioners) should be connected to suitable sockets.
- Avoid plugging power strips into other power strips (daisy-chaining) to prevent overloads and fire hazards.
List of devices that should never be connected to a power strip:
1. Refrigerators and freezers
Refrigerators and freezers require a large amount of energy and operate with on and off cycles that can overload a power strip. To ensure their efficiency and safety, they should always be connected to a dedicated power outlet.
2. Microwaves
These kitchen appliances consume between 1,000 and 1,500 watts and require a stable connection for proper operation. Using a power strip can cause overheating and electrical system failures.
3. Coffee makers
Coffee makers use electrical resistance to heat water, which requires high energy peaks. Connecting them to a power strip can cause overload and affect their performance.
4. Toasters
These devices convert electricity into heat through resistors, which requires high energy consumption in short periods of time. Connecting them to a power strip can cause overheating.
5. Slow cookers
Although they operate at a low temperature, these pots remain on for long periods of time, which can exceed the capacity of a power strip and cause overheating.
6. Hair dryers and styling tools
Devices such as hair dryers, straighteners and curling irons reach high temperatures quickly and can generate dangerous power spikes for a power strip.
7. Air conditioners
Air conditioners, especially portable and window models, consume large amounts of energy when activated. Connecting them to a power strip can cause overload and increase the risk of fire.
8. Water pumps
These devices protect homes from flooding and work in humid environments. Water and electricity are a dangerous combination, so they should be connected to a GFCI outlet.
9. Air compressors
Portable compressors use motors with high energy consumption when switched on. To avoid malfunction, they should be plugged directly into an outlet or use a heavy-duty extension cord.
10. Other power strips
Connecting one power strip to another (daisy-chaining) violates electrical safety standards and places an excessive load on the system. If more outlets are needed, the ideal solution is to install an additional circuit.
11. Blenders and food processors
Some blender models use motors of up to 1,500 watts, which puts them in the same category as high-consumption appliances. In addition, contact with liquids can cause short circuits in the power strip.
12. Washing machines and dryers
These appliances use up to 2,500 watts per wash or dry cycle and require a dedicated circuit to operate safely.
13. Portable heaters
Electric heaters, even those designed for energy saving, reach consumption levels of up to 1,500 watts and can overheat the power strip, increasing the risk of fire.
14. Power tools
Drills, saws and other tools use high-powered motors. For safe use, it is advisable to use industrial electrical extensions or dedicated sockets.
15. Video game equipment
Video game consoles, monitors and accessories can add up to high power consumption, especially if used simultaneously. It is advisable to use a power strip with surge protection to avoid damage to the devices.
The use of power strips is a practical solution in homes, but not all devices are compatible with this type of connection. To prevent electrical hazards and promote energy efficiency, it is essential to follow safety recommendations and opt for dedicated sockets for high-consumption equipment. In addition, using renewable energy systems at home, such as solar panels and storage batteries, can help reduce electricity consumption and improve the sustainability of energy systems.
