In our tech-driven world, power strips have become household staples, allowing us to power multiple devices from a single outlet. However, not all appliances are meant to be plugged into a power strip—doing so can overload the strip, create a fire hazard, or even damage your expensive devices.

Here are 9 devices you should never plug into a power strip and why each one requires special attention.

1. Ovens

Ovens are power-hungry appliances designed to operate on dedicated electrical outlets. Their high power draw can easily overwhelm a power strip, causing overheating and potentially starting a fire. Always plug your oven directly into a properly rated wall socket.

2. Refrigerators

Refrigerators cycle on and off throughout the day, requiring consistent and significant energy spikes. A power strip isn’t equipped to handle these energy surges, which could result in damage to the refrigerator or even a fire. To ensure safety, refrigerators should always have their own dedicated outlet.

3. Space Heaters

Space heaters consume a large amount of power over extended periods of time. Plugging one into a power strip can overheat the strip, melt the plastic, and create a fire risk. Always connect space heaters directly to a wall outlet.

4. Microwaves

Despite their small size, microwaves require a significant amount of energy during operation. A power strip isn’t built to handle the surge of electricity a microwave demands. To prevent overheating or electrical fires, always plug microwaves directly into the wall.

5. Coffee Makers

You might assume coffee makers are low-energy appliances because they’re small, but they actually draw a surprising amount of power when heating water and brewing coffee. Plugging them into a power strip risks overloading it. Use a direct wall connection instead.

6. Toasters

Toasters consume high bursts of energy during short operation periods. Power strips aren’t designed to handle such sudden energy spikes, increasing the risk of overheating or electrical failure. Keep your toaster plugged into a dedicated outlet for safe operation.

7. Another Power Strip (Daisy-Chaining)

It might seem convenient to connect one power strip to another to increase the number of available outlets, but this practice—known as “daisy-chaining”—is a major fire hazard. Power strips are not built to handle the cumulative load of multiple devices across multiple strips. Always plug power strips directly into a wall outlet.

8. High-Powered Hair Styling Tools (e.g., Hair Dryers, Flat Irons)

Hair dryers, flat irons, and curling wands are energy-intensive appliances. They generate heat quickly and require a significant power draw, which can easily overload a power strip. For safety, plug these tools directly into a wall outlet.

9. Large Electronics Without Surge Protection (Computers, TVs, Routers)

While devices like computers, TVs, and routers can be plugged into a power strip, they must be connected to a strip with surge protection. A sudden power surge can fry the internal components of these expensive devices. Without surge protection, you’re risking costly damage.

Why Following These Rules Matters

Using power strips improperly can result in:

• Electrical Fires: Overloaded power strips can overheat and ignite.
• Damaged Devices: Surges and inconsistent power can fry delicate electronics.
• Safety Hazards: Faulty connections can expose you and your family to electrical shocks.

How to Use a Power Strip Safely

• Check the wattage capacity of your power strip before plugging in any device.
• Avoid plugging in high-energy appliances.
• Use surge-protected power strips for valuable electronics.
• Never connect one power strip to another.
• Regularly inspect your power strips for signs of wear or damage.

The Bottom Line

Power strips are incredibly useful, but they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution for every appliance. Devices with high energy demands or sensitive electronics need more than what a power strip can offer.

By following these safety tips and giving high-powered devices their own dedicated outlets, you’ll protect your home, your appliances, and your family from unnecessary risks.