What Cannot be plugged into an extension cord?

They are NOT allowed to be used for high-power loads such as microwaves, coffee pots, refrigerators, toasters/toaster ovens, or space heaters. Doing so creates a serious fire hazard. Below is an example of a hard-wired power strip you may see in some rooms. These usually have 4-24 outlets.

Why do some appliances say not to use an extension cord?





Certain high wattage appliances should not use an extension cord when possible (check the owner’s manual). Using an extension cord on these appliances could cause excessive heat and voltage drop, this could damage the appliance or motor.

Can you use an extension cord with appliances?

Longer cords can’t handle as much current as shorter cords of the same gauge. 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.

Can I use a 110v extension cord with 220v?

Using the 110 V rated cable to connect between a 220 V outlet and any device is a bad idea. Connecting a 220 V rated cable between a 220 V outlet and 110-220 V device is just fine. Being under the rated voltage for the cable is not a problem.
Jan 22, 2021

Is it safe to plug a computer into an extension cord?

You can repair small damage, but the experts don’t recommend using repaired cords. Ultimately, you should be aware that pairing your computer with a long extension cord isn’t a tough nut to crack. You can use the extension cord for as long as you want once you follow the safety measures properly.
Dec 5, 2019

Can you plug a toaster into an extension cord?





Toaster. Here’s the clue: It has exposed wires inside those slots that heat up to become red-hot. It takes a lot of current to fire up those wires, which can easily overload a power strip. So, no, do not plug your toaster into an extension cord or power strip.
Apr 23, 2021

Can a small refrigerator be plugged into an extension cord?

You can technically plug a mini fridge into an extension cord. However, it’s essential to choose a heavy-duty cable that can support the fridge’s power needs, which is best used as a temporary solution. An underpowered extension cord can overheat, melt the insulation, and start a fire.
May 18, 2021

What is the difference between a power cord and an extension cord?

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.
Sep 28, 2018

What is the best extension cord for a refrigerator?

Best Refrigerator Extension Cords

  • POWTECH Heavy-Duty Major Appliance Extension Cord. 4,299 Reviews. …
  • AmazonBasics 25-Foot Extension Cord. 604 Reviews. …
  • Iron Forge 3-Prong Refrigerator Extension Cord. 888 Reviews. …
  • GoGreen Power Multi-Length Appliance Extension Cord. …
  • Qualihome Multi-Length Heavy Duty Major Appliance Extension Cord.


Nov 4, 2021

What happens when you plug 110V into 220V?

It is current that is your enemy, a piece wire that is warm at 110V (120v) will turn into a fuse at 220V (230v, 240v), all other things being equal. Determining the wattage/load is usually performed by the design engineer to meet the performance specs set by the electrical engineer.
Dec 31, 2014

How much voltage can an extension cord handle?

As the cord gets longer, the current carrying capacity of the cord gets lower. For example, a 16 gauge extension cord less than 50 feet in length can power a 1625 watt (W) appliance. A 16 gauge cord that is longer than 50 feet in length can only power an appliance up to 1250W.

Can I use a regular extension cord for 220V?



220 Volt Extension cord buying considerations
220/240V extension power cords are perfect for operating high-end power tools and appliances over an extended distance. Remember, you can safely connect a 15-ampere cord to a 20-amp receptacle, but you can’t use a 20-amp cord on anything other than the right device.

Can I plug my computer directly into the wall?

1) If the “wall” is an RJ45 jack connected directly to an Ethernet switch or a router (say in an apartment or office building) that is expecting to connect to and hand out an IP address (via DHCP) to a host computer, then direct connection will work but may not be very secure.
Jan 2, 2019

Are cheap extension cords safe?

I recently learned (via a rant from an electrician’s son and some internet research) that the standard buy-anywhere cheapo extension cords are a big cause of electrical fires and are not recommended to be left plugged in.
Nov 28, 2013

How do I know if my extension cord is overloaded?

Do not overload your extension cord by using it to power appliances beyond its capacity. You can check its capacity, or rating, by looking at the tag on the cord or its packaging. and can overheat if shorted.

How many things can you plug into an extension cord?



two appliances

Never plug more than two appliances into an outlet at once or “piggyback” extra appliances on extension cords or wall outlets. Use only outlets designed to handle multiple plugs. Know the amount of power you’re placing on an outlet or circuit. Some recommend each outlet or circuit should not exceed 1,500 watts.

Are surge protectors safer than extension cords?

Extension cords are crucial when you need to stretch an appliance from one location to a distant electrical outlet, while surge protectors help keep your equipment safe.

What should you not plug into a surge protector?

Here are some examples of high-capacity appliances that you should not plug into a power strip:

  • Refrigerators.
  • Washing machines and dryers.
  • Sump pumps.
  • Space heaters.
  • Portable air conditioners.
  • Microwave ovens.
  • Toasters.
  • Coffee makers.

Do surge protectors work with extension cords?



Conclusion. Surge protector safety is a paramount concern at home and at work. You should never plug one surge protector into another, and you shouldn’t connect a surge protector to an extension cord for very long either. The extension cord is not made for that kind of use.