When it comes to essential household items, the extension cord is a top choice for connecting devices to distant wall outlets. While they can be incredibly useful, it is important to use them safely. Not all appliances and devices are suitable for use with extension cords due to the risk of overheating and potential fires.
We sought advice from an expert electrician to identify which items should never be connected to an extension cord. Certain devices, such as space heaters, refrigerators, freezers, microwaves, coffee makers, toasters, slow cookers, and hot plates, require a direct connection to a wall outlet for safe and efficient operation. Using power strips or extension cords with these high-power devices can overload circuits and pose significant hazards.
It’s crucial to prioritize safety when dealing with electrical appliances in your home. Consulting a professional electrician can help ensure that your devices are plugged in correctly and reduce the need for potentially risky extension cords. Remember, safety always comes first when dealing with electricity.
Avoid using extension cords or power strips for long periods of time, as they may not provide sufficient electricity for appliances like slow cookers or hot plates, which require continuous power. It is recommended to plug these appliances directly into a wall outlet to ensure safe cooking, especially when unattended.
For hair-care appliances such as hair dryers, curling wands, and straighteners, it is important to avoid plugging them into extension cords due to their high power requirements. Consider installing a GFCI outlet to prevent bathroom hazards.
When it comes to sump pumps in flood-prone basements, using extension cords is not advised due to the risk of water exposure. To prevent damage and ensure effectiveness, have a GFCI outlet installed above the flood level.
For home gym equipment like treadmills, it is best to connect them directly to a grounded wall outlet. If using an extension cord, ensure it is heavy-duty and matches the power cord’s gauge.
Window air-conditioning units should be plugged directly into the wall for safety reasons, as they require significant energy. If needed, use a heavy-duty extension cord specifically rated for air conditioners.
Avoid daisy chaining power strips or extension cords, as this can overload the electrical system and pose fire hazards. Be cautious when using extension cords, and do not plug in too many devices simultaneously to prevent overheating and damage. Choose the correct length of cord for the intended application to ensure safety.
When connecting power over a considerable distance, it is advisable to utilize a single long extension cord instead of multiple shorter cords daisy-chained together. Conversely, for shorter distances, it is recommended to avoid using lengthy extension cords. Mock highlights the importance of using extension cords within their designated parameters to prevent overheating issues. For further details, please refer to the original article on Martha Stewart’s website.
