Power strips are convenient, offering extra outlets when you need them most. They’re perfect for low-power electronics like TVs, chargers, and computers. However, when it comes to high-powered devices or essential appliances, power strips can quickly become a safety hazard. Overloading a power strip can result in overheating, tripped breakers, or even electrical fires.
To keep your home and appliances safe, it’s important to know which devices should always be plugged directly into a wall outlet. We’ve consulted with an expert electrician to identify seven common appliances that should never be plugged into a power strip and explain why.
1. Refrigerators and Freezers
Refrigerators and freezers are some of the most essential appliances in your home—and also some of the most power-hungry. Plugging these into a power strip can easily lead to overload, causing the strip to shut off unexpectedly. This could result in spoiled food before you even realize the fridge or freezer has turned off.
Why it’s a risk: These appliances draw large amounts of power and have motors that can cause the power strip to fail.
Solution: Always plug refrigerators and freezers directly into a dedicated wall outlet to avoid disruptions.
2. Sump Pumps
If you live in a flood-prone area, you know how crucial a sump pump can be. During heavy rain or snowmelt, a sump pump is the first line of defense against flooding in your basement. But plugging it into a power strip is a huge mistake.
Why it’s a risk: Sump pumps require continuous power to function, and overloading a power strip can prevent the pump from operating when you need it most, risking significant water damage to your home.
Solution: Plug sump pumps into a dedicated outlet for reliable performance.
3. Dishwashers and Garbage Disposals
Dishwashers and garbage disposals may seem like everyday appliances, but they draw substantial power during operation. These devices should never be plugged into a power strip as they require a dedicated circuit to avoid overloading.
Why it’s a risk: These high-power appliances can overload a power strip, causing malfunctions or even fire hazards.
Solution: Have dishwashers and garbage disposals plugged directly into 20-amp outlets. If you lack enough outlets, consider having an electrician install more.
4. Space Heaters
Space heaters are great for providing targeted heat to a single room, but they demand a lot of energy to run. Using them with a power strip can lead to overheating, tripped breakers, or fire risks.
Why it’s a risk: Power strips are not built to handle the high wattage of space heaters, which can easily cause a strip to overheat or fail.
Solution: Always plug space heaters directly into a dedicated wall outlet. This ensures they run safely and efficiently without overloading your electrical system.
