When we think about life in the past, one of the first things that comes to mind is how people managed without electricity. Today, it’s almost impossible to imagine daily life without it. From kitchen appliances and heating devices to phones, laptops, and entertainment systems, nearly everything we use relies on electrical power.
Ironically, despite our dependence on electricity, most homes don’t have enough wall outlets to safely power all modern devices. As a result, many households rely heavily on power strips—often without realizing that improper use can turn them into serious fire hazards.
While power strips are convenient and generally safe for low-power electronics like phone chargers, lamps, or entertainment setups, they are not designed to handle high-wattage appliances. Plugging energy-hungry devices into a power strip can cause overheating, electrical overload, and, in worst-case scenarios, house fires.
Before plugging anything into a power strip, it’s essential to check its maximum wattage rating, which is usually printed on the product. Many high-capacity appliances draw far more power than a standard power strip can safely handle—even if the appliance itself isn’t very large.
Below is a list of common household appliances that should never be plugged into a power strip.
Appliances You Should Never Plug Into a Power Strip
1. Oven
Although ovens aren’t used continuously, they require a significant amount of electricity when operating. Ovens should always be plugged directly into a dedicated wall outlet on their own circuit, never into a power strip.
2. Refrigerator
Refrigerators constantly cycle on and off throughout the day, drawing bursts of power each time. This fluctuating load can easily overload a power strip. Like ovens, refrigerators should always have a dedicated outlet.
3. Washing Machine
Washing machines draw a large amount of electricity—often up to 1,400 watts. Because they typically run unattended for long periods, plugging them into a power strip increases the risk of overheating and electrical fires.
4. Space Heaters
Portable heaters are among the most dangerous appliances to plug into a power strip. Many use 1,500 watts on high settings and operate for extended periods, making them a leading cause of household fires.
5. Microwave Oven
Microwaves consume a high amount of power during operation. That’s why they’re usually plugged into their own outlet—and for good reason. Using a power strip can quickly overload the circuit.
6. Coffee Maker
Many people underestimate how much power a coffee maker uses. Because of the heating elements involved, coffee makers should always be plugged directly into a wall outlet.
7. Toaster
Despite their small size, toasters draw a large amount of electricity when heating. Plugging them into a power strip can easily exceed safe limits.
8. Another Power Strip
Plugging one power strip into another—also known as “daisy-chaining”—is a major safety violation. This practice greatly increases the risk of overload and is prohibited by most electrical safety codes.
9. Sensitive Electronics (Computers, TVs, Routers)
While these devices don’t consume much power, they are vulnerable to power surges. If plugged into a standard power strip, they can be damaged quickly. Instead, use a surge protector specifically designed to safeguard electronics.
Final Safety Tip
Power strips are useful—but only when used correctly. For high-wattage appliances, always rely on dedicated wall outlets. For sensitive electronics, invest in surge-protected power strips to prevent costly damage.
A little awareness goes a long way in keeping your home safe.
