Power strips are convenient. They let you connect several devices to a single wall outlet and can help organize electronics around a desk, entertainment center, bedroom, or home office.
But a power strip is not a replacement for unlimited electrical capacity.
Every power strip has a maximum electrical load. Plugging several high-power appliances into the same strip can overload its wiring, cause excessive heat, damage the strip, trip a circuit breaker, or, in serious cases, contribute to an electrical fire.
The safest approach is simple: use power strips mainly for low-power electronics, and plug high-wattage appliances directly into a properly installed wall outlet whenever the manufacturer’s instructions allow it.
Here are some devices that deserve particular caution.
1. Space Heaters
Portable space heaters are among the biggest concerns when it comes to power strips.
A typical space heater can draw a substantial amount of electricity because it converts electrical energy directly into heat. Adding another appliance to the same power strip can push the strip beyond its rated capacity.
For this reason, portable heaters are generally best connected directly to a wall outlet, rather than through a power strip or extension cord.
Also keep heaters away from curtains, bedding, furniture, clothing, and other combustible materials.
2. Air Conditioners
Portable and window air conditioners can also require significant electrical power, particularly when the compressor starts.
Connecting an air conditioner to a power strip may overload the strip or create excessive heat at the plug and connections.
Check the manufacturer’s instructions and electrical requirements before connecting one. If the appliance specifies a dedicated wall outlet, follow that requirement.
3. Refrigerators and Freezers
A refrigerator may not appear to use much electricity continuously, but its compressor can require a higher amount of power when starting.
A power strip designed for computers, chargers, and small electronics isn’t necessarily appropriate for a refrigerator.
For major appliances such as refrigerators and freezers, using a properly grounded wall outlet is generally the safer choice.
4. Microwaves
Microwave ovens can draw substantial power while operating.
That makes them a poor choice for a typical household power strip, especially when other appliances are connected to the same strip.
A microwave should normally be connected according to the manufacturer’s electrical requirements, using an appropriate wall outlet.
5. Toasters and Toaster Ovens
Toasters and toaster ovens generate heat using powerful heating elements.
Although a toaster may be relatively small, its electrical demand can be surprisingly high compared with devices such as phones, televisions, or laptops.
Avoid putting a toaster on a power strip that is already supplying other appliances.
6. Coffee Makers and Electric Kettles
Coffee makers, electric kettles, and similar kitchen appliances can also consume considerable power during operation.
The danger becomes greater when several heating appliances are connected to the same strip.
For example, simultaneously operating a kettle, coffee maker, toaster, and toaster oven from one power strip can create a significant electrical load.
Whenever possible, connect these appliances directly to appropriate wall outlets.
7. Hair Dryers
Hair dryers are another high-power appliance that shouldn’t casually be connected to a power strip.
They use powerful heating elements and motors, which can draw considerable current.
The safest practice is to use the wall outlet recommended for the appliance, particularly in bathrooms where electrical safety is especially important.
8. Curling Irons and Hair Straighteners
These devices may use less power than some large appliances, but they still generate substantial heat.
A common mistake is connecting several hair-styling devices to one inexpensive power strip.
If you’re using a curling iron, straightener, heated brush, or similar device, avoid overloading the outlet or power strip.
And never leave a heated styling appliance unattended.
9. Washing Machines
Large appliances such as washing machines have motors and other components that can produce changing electrical loads during different parts of their operating cycle.
They should be connected according to the manufacturer’s instructions rather than automatically being placed on a generic power strip.
A properly grounded wall outlet is generally preferable for major household appliances.
10. Clothes Dryers
Electric clothes dryers are particularly demanding electrical appliances.
They should not be connected to an ordinary household power strip.
Dryers have specific electrical requirements and are normally connected using an appropriate dedicated circuit and outlet.
If you’re unsure about the electrical setup, consult a qualified electrician rather than improvising with adapters or power strips.
11. Dishwashers
Dishwashers combine heating elements, pumps, motors, and electronic controls.
Because of their electrical demand, they should be installed according to the manufacturer’s specifications and local electrical requirements.
A basic power strip isn’t designed to handle the kind of load a major kitchen appliance may require.
