Power strips are commonly used when we need more plug outlets than a standard wall socket can provide. They allow us to power various electrical devices and electronics, from smartphones to home entertainment systems. However, not all devices are suitable for connection through power strips. Some appliances draw too much power, making it unsafe to plug them in.

When using a power strip, caution is necessary, especially when dealing with high-wattage appliances like toasters, space heaters, and air conditioners, as they can cause overheating, leading to a potential fire risk.

It’s important to avoid using an indoor power strip in damp areas like kitchens or laundry rooms due to the risk of damage. Always check the label on your power strip to ensure the devices connected do not exceed the maximum wattage.

Typically, most power strips are rated for 15 amps, which equals 1,800 watts. If you need to power devices that require more, you can use a 20-amp power strip, which supports up to 2,400 watts.

1. Refrigerators
Refrigerators, due to their high power consumption and frequent cycling, can quickly overload a power strip. It's best to plug these appliances directly into a dedicated electrical outlet to prevent overloading the circuit.

2. Microwaves
Microwaves require significant power to cook, thaw, or reheat food. Power strips cannot provide enough energy for this, so they should always be connected directly to an electrical outlet, just like a regular electric oven.

3. Coffee Makers
Coffee makers require a considerable amount of amperage to brew your morning coffee. To avoid interruptions during your morning routine, it’s best to plug your coffee maker directly into an outlet instead of using a power strip.

4. Kitchen Range Hoods
Appliances like kitchen range hoods, electric skillets, toaster ovens, and waffle makers can also quickly overload power strips. Their high current draw can cause overheating, making it unsafe to use them with power strips.

5. Slow Cookers
Slow cookers are another kitchen appliance that draws more power over extended periods. Connecting them to a power strip may result in an overloaded circuit. Ensure they are plugged directly into a wall outlet for safety, as they work over long cooking times without supervision.

6. Hair-Care Appliances
Hair straighteners, curling irons, and hair dryers use a lot of electricity. These appliances should never be plugged into a power strip. Use a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlet to reduce the risk of water damage, particularly in bathrooms, and prevent the circuit breaker from tripping.

7. Air Conditioners
Like space heaters, portable air conditioners consume a large amount of power, which could overheat a power strip or trip the circuit breaker. Air conditioners should be plugged directly into a dedicated outlet to avoid these risks.

8. Sump Pumps
Sump pumps are crucial for preventing basement flooding. Due to their moisture-sensitive nature, they should never be connected to a power strip. Use a GFCI outlet placed above ground to ensure the pump operates safely, especially in a flooded area.

9. Air Compressors
Portable air compressors are valuable tools, but they use a lot of power, which can stress a power strip. Instead, use an extension cord to avoid overloading the power strip and ensure the air tools work efficiently.

10. Another Power Strip
Daisy-chaining power strips, or using multiple power strips in series, is unsafe and may overload your electrical system. Fire safety regulations generally prohibit this practice, as it increases the risk of overheating. If you run out of outlets, consider turning off one device before plugging in another.

11. Juicers
High-powered appliances like juicers and blenders (e.g., Ninja or Vitamix) are designed to process tough ingredients, making them comparable in wattage to space heaters or air conditioners. These appliances should always be plugged into a GFCI outlet in the kitchen to avoid electrical damage or shorts.

12. Washing Machines

Washing machines can draw close to the 1,800-watt capacity of a typical power strip. Since washing cycles can last up to an hour, using a power strip can lead to overheating. Always plug washing machines directly into a wall socket for safe operation.

13. Portable Heaters
Portable heaters draw a substantial 1,500 watts of power, especially when running for extended periods. While many have safety features that turn them off if overheated, power strips can still overheat and catch fire. Use them only with outlets designed to handle such power loads.

14. Power Tools
When working with power tools like table saws, circular saws, and chop saws, use a power strip with a 220-volt rating and grounded outlets. Ensure the wiring is sufficient (14-gauge) to handle the heavy electrical load to avoid overheating.

15. Gaming Equipment
Using a power strip for gaming systems is fine, but be cautious about plugging too many devices in at once. Gaming PCs may consume around 500 watts, and when adding monitors, speakers, and other accessories, it’s important to check the power strip’s rating to avoid overloading it.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure safe usage of power strips and protect your devices from potential damage.