- Unplugging it every time we stop using it is the best way to avoid scares.
- An electrical fault and the presence of bread scraps can cause a fire if they come into contact with the heating element.
When we think of household appliances, the most common ones that come to mind are the larger appliances that are predominant in the kitchen, such as the refrigerator, the washing machine, the oven or the hob. However, beyond these large appliances, there are other smaller appliances that are equally important in everyday life.
Among the most commonly used smaller appliances are blenders, juicers and can openers, among others. Although their compact design may suggest that their energy consumption is low, the truth is that some of them can require a considerable amount of electricity. This is the case with sandwich makers, kettles and, in particular, the subject of this analysis: the toaster.
Experts warn
Many people have the habit of leaving electrical appliances plugged in after use. In the case of the refrigerator, the washing machine, the oven, the hob or the microwave, this makes sense, as these are appliances that require constant operation or are used on a regular basis. However, when it comes to small appliances, the situation changes.
Although it may seem like a harmless appliance, leaving the toaster plugged in after use can cause serious problems in the kitchen. In the most extreme cases, it can even cause a fire.
A potential hazard. Although leaving a coffee maker plugged in is not a big risk, keeping a toaster plugged in when not in use can be dangerous. It works on heating elements that generate heat, similar to a stove.
The risk increases if there are crumbs or breadcrumbs inside, as they can catch fire in the event of a power failure. In addition, many models do not have an on/off switch, as they are automatically activated when plugged in.
Even the fire department warns. There are reports of fires caused by toasters like this one in the DevonLive newspaper. Just go to the website of the Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service to see how they advise placing the toaster at a safe distance from curtains, blinds and any other flammable material, such as kitchen paper.
In fact, on their website, they warn of several cases of fires caused by toasters. They also warn of the risk of placing this appliance directly on the worktop without considering what is nearby.
The toaster should always be placed at a safe distance from curtains, blinds and any flammable material, such as kitchen paper. They also recommend not placing it under cupboards or protruding shelves while in operation to avoid heat build-up, and ensure that it is always placed on a stable surface.
How to avoid toaster hazards
To reduce the risk of electrical faults and prevent fires in the kitchen, it is essential to unplug the toaster after each use. It is also advisable to clean it regularly when it is cold to remove crumbs and residue. This simple measure not only improves safety, but also contributes to energy saving and the good condition of the appliance.
In addition to unplugging the toaster after use, it is essential to avoid connecting it to low-quality multiple sockets and power strips. Appliances such as toasters, sandwich makers and kettles have a high power consumption, ranging from 800 to 1500 watts, due to their heating elements.
If they are plugged in together with other high-consumption devices, they can overload the installation, causing overheating and increasing the risk of damage to the wiring or even fire.
Many power strips and multiple sockets are not designed to withstand the high power consumption of a toaster. If they are of low quality or lack overload protection, the risk of short circuits or fires increases, especially in poorly ventilated spaces or near flammable materials.
To improve safety at home, it is key to take precautions not only with the toaster. You also have to keep an eye on stoves and heaters, irons and hair dryers, coffee makers, kettles…
You have to be careful with these appliances: unplugging them after use and avoiding connecting them to inadequate power strips are simple measures that can prevent accidents.
