5 Things to Never Plug Into a Power Strip, According to a Master Electrician

Most of us have a power strip or two in our home, helping to power our various electronics. After all, they’re convenient, right? And power strips can be a great option for running low-power devices such as lamps, phone chargers, routers and modems, clocks, gaming consoles, and printers. But did you know that not everything belongs in a power strip? Using them incorrectly turns this safe convenience into a hazard that can have serious consequences, from damaged electronics to house fires.

To get the best advice on what shouldn’t be plugged into a power strip, we consulted a master electrician for expert tips on keeping our homes safe. Following these safety tips will help prevent electrical mishaps and keep your home running smoothly.

Josh Luby, master electrician serving Nashville, Tenn.

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Small Kitchen Appliances

Person pushing buttons on microwave — Credit:
Rostislav_Sedlacek / Getty Images

According to master electrician Josh Luby, your microwave, toaster, coffee maker, mixer, slow cooker, and air fryer need to be plugged directly into the wall. These draw higher amounts of power than most power strips are equipped to handle and cannot be safely plugged into a strip. It’s also best practice to unplug small appliances you are not using and plug them in only during use to avoid potential safety hazards.

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Medical Equipment

Any kind of medical device should be plugged directly into the wall every single time. Medical devices such as CPAP Machines, nebulizers, and rechargeable mobility aids need the reliability of a direct power source. Many of these devices pull a lot of power that could potentially overload a power strip.

Additionally, in the event of a power strip malfunction, these potentially life-saving devices could be interrupted. To avoid power disturbances, never plug a medical device into a power strip.

For peace of mind, look for a power strip with a UL safety certification to ensure it meets safety standards.

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Space Heaters, Air Conditioners, and Dehumidifiers

Window A/C unit — Credit:
NAKphotos / Getty Images

Modern infrared space heaters carry fewer risks than the space heaters of yore. They are designed to be cool to the touch on the outside, and they don’t release potentially harmful gases. But that doesn’t mean they are totally risk-free.

The current flow required to power a space heater, AC unit, or dehumidifier generally exceeds the safe limit of a power strip. That can mean melting, sparking, burning outlets, and potentially dangerous fires. Make sure to plug this kind of appliance directly into the wall.

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'Daisy-Chaining' Power Strips or Extension Cords

It might be tempting to plug a power strip into another power strip (or an extension cord) to create a longer reach or power more devices. According to Luby, though, this practice is a bad idea. “It increases the risk of overload and fire,” he says. Power strips are not designed to be used this way, and it’s not worth the risk.

To make power strip usage even safer, look for a heavy-duty model with a thicker internal wire that can safely handle a higher current. Luby recommends looking for a model with #12 AWG wire and a built-in surge protector. This will protect plugged-in devices like computers, TVs, game consoles, modems and routers, and audio equipment against voltage spikes.

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Hair Dryers, Curling Irons, and Flat Irons

Luby says it’s okay to plug one hair tool at a time into a power strip—but since the heating elements in these devices pull significant amperage, using the same strip for multiple hair tools can create a fire risk. Don’t worry: You don’t have to resort to air-drying. Just remember to use one tool at a time, plug it in, stay with it while it heats up, use it, and then unplug it before walking away.