Roughly 3,300 home fires originate in extension cords each year, killing 50 people and injuring 270 more. Extension cords can overheat and cause fires when used improperly, so keep these important tips in mind to protect your home and workplace.
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.
They can be workhorses for us, and with heavy use, they can deteriorate or become damaged over time. Using a damaged extension cord can lead to electrical sparking and fire or to a shock hazard. Ting has identified arcing from several common extension cord issues, including cracking, cuts, and water infiltration.
Extension cords are for temporary use only — they should never replace permanent wiring or be left plugged in long-term. Always match cord type, gauge, and length to the appliance's wattage needs, and inspect cords for damage before use.
Many people mistakenly believe that with enough outlets on the cord, it can simultaneously handle multiple high-wattage appliances. However, each extension cord has a maximum capacity, typically measured in amps or watts. Exceeding this capacity can cause the cord to overheat, leading to a potential fire.
Here, we highlight the top ten appliances that should never be plugged into an extension cord and the dangers to expect if you do.
Safety Features:
For example, the Kendall Howard Lan Station 48″ Power Strip offers 16 outlets, a 1060 joule surge protector, and a 15A circuit breaker for enhanced safety. Extension cords generally lack surge protection, so they're less suited for sensitive electronics.
Extension cords cause over 3,000 home fires each year, resulting in an average of 50 fatalities and nearly 300 injuries. Oftentimes, extension cords are used improperly and can overheat or short out.
Without further ado, space heating and water heating, on average, are the most energy-consuming equipment. If these appliances are using electricity, they may be what uses the most electricity in your home.
Yes, you can plug a TV into an extension cord, but ensure it is rated for the TV's power consumption. Using a heavier-duty extension cord can help prevent overheating.
Improper use of easily overloaded, unapproved extension cords can present a serious fire safety hazard in the workplace as well as the home.
Examples of electrical hazard risks include:
If an electrical fire starts, follow these steps:
Mistake #5: Leaving the Cord Plugged In When Not in Use
Leaving a power extension cord plugged in when it is not in use can be a fire hazard. If the cable is left plugged in, it can overheat and start a fire. Be sure to unplug the cord when you are finished using it.
Why it's important: Overloading outlets is one of the most common causes of electrical fires. Plugging too many devices into one outlet or power strip can cause the circuit to overheat and spark.
With Major Appliances
Avoid using extension cords when plugging in major appliances, like refrigerators, microwaves, and space heaters. “High-wattage appliances draw more power than extension cords are typically rated for,” says Worthington. He recommends plugging these types of appliances directly into a wall outlet.
Did you know that when your appliances or electronic devices are plugged in, they're draining energy – even if they're not in use? Phantom power, also called standby power, refers to the energy that's wasted around your home when devices are plugged in and using power, but you're not actively using them.
Depending on the model and efficiency, a one-ton AC uses about 1.2 kWh/hour, while a 1.5-ton AC uses around 1.5 kWh/hour. On average, running an AC for 8 hours a day can add anywhere from ₹1,800 to ₹3,500 per month to your electricity bill, depending on the AC type and your electricity rate.
Let's break down the top energy-consuming appliances in most homes and what you can do to keep costs under control.
Warning signs include persistent burning smells, discolored or warm outlets, flickering lights, buzzing or crackling sounds, and frequent circuit breaker trips. If you notice these symptoms, especially in combination, turn off the power to the area and contact a licensed electrician immediately for inspection.
The cord simply had a short circuit in its wiring because of insulation DAMAGE, or it had a DAMAGE produced SHORT CIRCUIT at its plug or socket. Try to handle power cords gently, and avoid pulling hard on them, or trapping them under any furniture. Never pull in the wires unplug one, only pull out the plug!
Ranges and Stoves. With cooking as the most common cause of house fires in the US, ranges and stoves are at the top of the list for fire-starting appliances. These essential appliances can become hazards mainly due to unattended use.
7 Things You Should NOT Plug Into Your Power Strip
Use extension cords with polarized and/or three-prong plugs. Buy only cords approved by an independent testing laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL), Intertek (ETL), or Canadian Standards Association (CSA).
Overheating: Surge protectors and power cords that are not rated for high power loads can overheat, potentially causing a fire. Electrical Short Circuit: If a surge protector or power cord is faulty or overloaded, this could also cause a short circuit, resulting in sparks, fire, or appliance damage.