Devices That Should Never Be Plugged Into a Power Strip
1. Ovens

Ovens are among the most energy-hungry appliances. Always connect them directly to a dedicated wall outlet.

2. Refrigerators and Freezers

While they don’t use huge bursts of power, fridges and freezers run 24/7. That constant draw can overheat a power strip over time.

3. Washing Machines and Dryers

These appliances consume a lot of energy during each cycle. Plugging them into a strip increases the risk of overheating or short circuits.

4. Space Heaters

Small but mighty, auxiliary heaters pull heavy loads of electricity. Plug them only into a wall outlet—never into a strip.

5. Microwaves

Microwaves may seem harmless, but they use far more energy than you think. Keep them off extension cords.

6. Coffee Makers

A typical coffee machine consumes about 165 kWh per year. Always use a direct outlet connection for safety.

7. Toasters

Toasters can draw anywhere from 500 to 1000 W. For such a small device, that’s a lot—so avoid power strips.

8. Other Extension Cords

Chaining multiple power strips or extensions together (a practice called “daisy-chaining”) is a serious fire hazard.

9. Computers, TVs, and Internet Routers

These devices don’t use much power, but they are sensitive to electrical surges. If you must use a strip, make sure it’s a surge protector, not a standard one.

Final Thoughts
Power strips are handy, but they’re not built for heavy-duty appliances. While the risk of fire may seem low, prevention is always safer than dealing with the consequences. Plug high-consumption or sensitive devices directly into wall outlets, and use power strips only for lighter electronics.