Do not substitute extension cords for permanent wiring. Do not run through walls, doorways, ceilings, or floors. If a cord is covered, heat cannot escape, which may result in a fire hazard. Do not use an extension cord for more than one appliance.
What should not be plugged into an extension cord?
Rule two: never plug high power capacity appliances, like space heaters, refrigerators, or microwave and toaster ovens into power strips or extension cords. These appliances have higher power capacity and need to be plugged into a wall outlet directly.
Can you plug anything into an extension cord?
Can You Plug Extension Cords Into Another Extension Cord? Again, technically you can, but it’s not recommended, as it’s considered a fire hazard. And it’s also against OSHA and NEC regulations.
Why is using an extension cord bad?
Why Extension Cords Are Dangerous
Electrical current flowing through wires generates heat, and when too much current flows through a wire, it can overheat and melt the plastic insulation of the wires, causing short circuits and fires.
Do not use an extension cord with this appliance?
Using extension cords
Never remove an extension cord’s grounding pin in order to fit it into a two-prong outlet. Never use extension cords to power appliances. Plug appliances directly into wall outlets. .Never tape extension cords to floors or attach them to surfaces with staples or nails.
Is it OK to plug a TV into a power strip?
Yes , power strip can hold current necessary for TV electronic. But often in instruction manual you can foundplug your TV set in wall outlet directly . This is because people use power strip many time low grade out of standards.
Is it OK to plug a refrigerator into an extension cord?
The biggest concern with using an extension cord to power a refrigerator is using the wrong cord, which can lead to overheating of the cord, damage to the appliance and increased risk of fire or electric shock. Never try to plug a three-pronged appliance into an un-grounded extension cord.
Is it OK to use an extension cord with a surge protector?
Using an extension cord with a surge protector is a fire hazard at worst, and at best runs the risk of damaging or degrading the cords of either component.Don’t use a high-current surge protector with a low-current cord, and if one component uses a 14-gauge wire, the other should as well.
Can you use an extension cord with a power recliner?
Do not use an extension cord, adapter, or surge protector. The power feature is operated by a power switch, located on the side of the recliner. Before moving the recliner, disconnect the electrical plug from the wall outlet and secure the mechanism to prevent unexpected opening.
Can I use an extension cord for my TV?
It is safe to plug a TV into an extension cord. Extension cords are only dangerous when you overload them by using them to operate powerful appliances like refrigerators.The extension cord won’t protect the TV from surges (unless the manual says that it has surge protection).
When should you throw out extension cords?
Throw them away when you can’t locate certification or rating labels, the cord doesn’t have a three-prong plug and connector for modern wall receptacles, the plug has same-size blades instead of modern polarized plugs, the wires have cracked insulation or exposed wiring, or the cord and plug have a loose connection.
What is the safest extension cord?
Choose cords with polarized or three-prong plugs. For use with larger appliances, thick, round, low-gauge extension cords are best. For smaller appliances and electronics, you can use thin or flat cords.
Are extension cords bad for electronics?
The longer the extension cord, the harder it is for the electrical current pass through. This means electrical current will can weaken as it passes through the cord to its destination, causing the power outlet to work harder.The power source can overheat, which could result in an electrical fire.
Can you plug kitchen appliances into extension cords?
Rule two: never plug high power capacity appliances, like space heaters, refrigerators, or microwave and toaster ovens into power strips or extension cords. These appliances have higher power capacity and need to be plugged into a wall outlet directly.
Are extension cords a fire hazard?
Extension cords can overheat and cause fires when used improperly. Overheating is usually caused by overloading or connecting appliances that consume more watts than the cord can handle. Damaged extension cords can also cause fires. Extension cords should only be used temporarily.
Is it safe to use an extension cord for a dryer?
Is It Safe To Plug A Dryer Into An Extension Cord? It is not safe. Dryers draw a lot of electricity. If your extension cord is too long, and if the wires are too thin, the extension cord will overheat.
Should a refrigerator be plugged into a surge protector?
We do not recommend connecting a refrigerator or freezer to a surge protector. The compressor is sensitive to temperature and current overloads, and will shut itself down with a surge.A surge protector will override this system, and if there is a power surge, your refrigerator may not restart.
What is the difference between an extension cord and a power strip?
However, the main difference between the two lies in the purpose: If you want to multiply the number of electrical outlets from a single source, use a power strip. If you want to stretch out a power source towards a distant appliance, use an extension cord.
What is a good extension cord?
A good extension cord should have a 15-amp power rating and 12-gauge wires, and be tested and approved by a third partyeither UL or Intertek. It should have an elastomer sheath that makes it flexible enough to consistently lay flat on the ground and easy to coil up.
Can I use an extension cord for my microwave?
We strongly recommend that an extension cord not be used with a microwave due to potential safety hazards under certain conditions. Your microwave should be plugged into its own properly grounded, dedicated electrical outlet to prevent the flickering of the lights, blowing of a fuse or tripping of a circuit breaker.
Can I use extension cord for dishwasher?
Dishwashers use a lot of power, especially during the heating cycle. We recommend to never use an extension cord to connect your dishwasher to an electrical outlet.Your power cord will eventually overheat, causing your cord and anything surrounding the cord to melt.
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