Things You Should Never Plug Into a Power Strip

Let’s get one thing straight. Power strip surge protectors are amazing little tools.

They turn one lonely wall outlet into a charging party for all your gadgets. But here’s the kicker: not everything should be invited to that party.

If you’ve ever wondered “Can you plug an extension cord into a power strip?” or “Is it safe to run a microwave on this thing?” — you’re in the right place.

In this guide, we’ll break down what a power strip really is, what it can handle, and more importantly, what should never, under any circumstances, be plugged into one.

Spoiler alert: if it gets hot or has a motor, keep it far away.

What Is a Power Strip, Anyway?

A power strip is a device that allows you to plug in multiple electronics using a single outlet. It is great for expanding your plug-in real estate in home offices, bedrooms, or behind entertainment centers.

Now, a surge protector is a special kind of power strip that helps shield your electronics from power surges. These are brief spikes in voltage that can damage your devices. They are especially common in storm-prone places like Colorado.

Here is a quick breakdown of how they compare

Power Strip	Surge Protector
Basic outlet splitter	Outlet splitter with added voltage protection
No protection from power surges	Protects devices from voltage spikes
Usually cheaper	Slightly more expensive but worth it

If you’re still unsure which one you need, check out our Smart Electrical Panel Guide to see how surge protection fits into modern home setups.

Things You Should Never Plug Into a Power Strip

These appliances are simply too powerful for the average strip to handle. Using them incorrectly can lead to overheating, tripping the circuit breaker, or even starting an electrical fire.

1. Refrigerators and Freezers

These appliances use compressors that cycle on and off, drawing a high current each time. That load is enough to overload a power strip.

Always plug them directly into a wall outlet.

2. Microwaves

Microwaves often pull between 1000 and 1500 watts. That is far more than a standard power strip can handle safely.

Using a microwave on a strip can melt wires, trigger circuit trips, or start an electrical fire.

3. Coffee Makers and Toasters

These may look innocent on your kitchen counter, but they require short bursts of high wattage that can cause power surges or even damage your wiring.

Plug them into a dedicated outlet, not a power strip.

4. Toaster Ovens, Air Fryers, and Slow Cookers

These are essentially miniature ovens. They generate high heat, use a lot of power, and are not meant for shared plug loads.

Use a dedicated wall outlet, ideally on a heavy duty circuit.

5. Hair Dryers and Curling Irons

These beauty tools combine high heat with high wattage, making them one of the worst offenders for overloading.

Avoid plugging them into strips. Treat them like you would any heat-producing appliance.

6. Space Heaters

These are known fire hazards when used improperly. Drawing around 1500 watts, they push most power strips to the limit. Most strips are not built with heavy duty wiring.

This is one of the biggest no-gos on the list.

7. Air Conditioners

Air conditioners have compressors that pull large loads when starting up. They need a stable current and often require a dedicated outlet.

Use a wall outlet on its own circuit to meet local safety codes.

8. Extension Cords

This might be the most surprising. Technically, you can plug an extension cord into a strip, but you absolutely should not. Doing so is called daisy-chaining and it is a significant fire hazard.

One strip per wall outlet. No exceptions.

9. Power Tools

Power tools with motors generate surges and require strong, stable currents. Saws, drills, and grinders should always be plugged into wall outlets.

If you work in a garage or workshop, invest in power outlet strips rated for high amperage.

10. Washer and Dryer

These appliances are large and complex and require 240 volt lines and high current loads. Power strips are not even designed for this kind of equipment.

For these, always install proper outlets with professional help.

How Much Is Too Much? Know Your Wattage Limit

Most household power strips are rated for 15 amps at 120 volts, which equals a maximum of 1800 watts. However, to stay safe and avoid overloading, it is strongly recommended not to exceed 960 watts on any single power strip.

Going above that threshold increases the risk of overheating, circuit breaker trips, or even an electrical fire.

Before plugging anything in, check the wattage of your devices. This information is usually printed on a label or in the manual. Add up the total wattage of all items you plan to plug into the strip.

If the total goes over 960 watts, you are entering dangerous territory. Spread those appliances across multiple circuits or plug high-wattage devices directly into a wall outlet instead.

Safety codes exist for a reason, and when it comes to electrical load, it is always better to play it safe than sorry.

Why It Matters: The Real Danger of Overloading

Every power strip has a wattage rating, usually around 1800 watts. Exceed that and you risk:

• Melted insulation
• Tripped circuit breakers
• Electrical fires
• Short circuits
• Destroyed appliances

Always look for UL or ETL safety certifications. These indicate that your strip meets safety codes and has been tested for high-performance reliability. If it does not have this certification, it is not worth the risk.

What Should You Use Instead?

If you find yourself needing to plug in large appliances or multiple electronics in one spot, here are safer alternatives.

Dedicated Circuits

Major appliances should always run on their own circuits. This setup is safer, more reliable, and meets local electrical codes.

Want to learn more? Read our article on Home Electrical Inspections.

Smart Surge Protectors

Great for computers, televisions, and entertainment setups. These advanced strips offer surge protection, energy monitoring, and smart controls.

Whole-Home Surge Protection

Protect your entire home from power surges with a panel-mounted solution. These are especially helpful during Colorado’s lightning-filled summer storms.

Need one installed? Contact us to learn how we can help.

FAQs: What People Want to Know

Can I plug a surge protector into another surge protector?

No. That creates excessive load risk and is a violation of most safety codes. It can lead to overheating and fires.

What’s the difference between a surge protector and an extension cord?

An extension cord only extends reach. A surge protector guards against power surges and provides safer energy distribution.

Can you plug a TV or gaming console into a power strip?

Yes, but it should be a surge protector with quality components and certifications. Cheap models may not offer true protection.

Play It Safe With Power Strips

Power strip surge protectors are useful, but they are not a catch-all solution. When used incorrectly, they can cause serious issues like power surges, short circuits, and even fires.

If you are unsure whether your setup is safe or if you need to upgrade your outlets for heavy duty appliances, reach out to us at The Electricians.

We serve the Denver metro area and specialize in smart, safe, and code-compliant electrical solutions.