Most of us have faced the frustration of living in an older home with too few outlets. You finally find a way to plug in that new air fryer or space heater, only to reach for a cheap extension cord or power strip and think the problem is solved. But before you do, there are critical safety rules to understand. Using the wrong extension cord can be more than inconvenient—it can be extremely dangerous.
High-power appliances to avoid on extension cords
Many household devices draw a lot of electricity, and plugging them into a temporary power strip or extension cord can create a serious fire hazard. Items with heating elements—like space heaters, air fryers, and coffee machines—should never be connected to anything other than a wall outlet.
Paul Martinez, owner of Electrified NYC in Brooklyn, explains it simply : “No extension cord at all for appliances that heat up or run continuously.” That rule isn’t just for safety—it’s backed by statistics showing that improper use of extension cords is a major cause of home fires.
Appliances that pose the greatest risk
- Air Fryers
Air fryers are a kitchen favorite for quick meals, but large models can consume up to 2,000 watts. Plugging one into an extension cord can quickly overload the line, creating a real fire risk. If you don’t have enough permanent outlets, use the air fryer only when you need it and plug it directly into a wall socket. - Microwaves
Many homes have built-in microwaves, but for those using countertop units, a dedicated circuit outlet is crucial. Microwaves draw significant power, and extension cords cannot handle the load safely. - Daisy-chained cords
Stacking extension cords or power strips—known as “daisy chaining”—is another major hazard. The practice can overheat the cords and cause them to melt, sparking fires almost instantly. - Space heaters
Space heaters are infamous fire starters. Between 2017 and 2019, portable heaters were involved in roughly 1,700 fires per year, some fatal. Martinez warns, “Imagine the cord melting while plugged into a heater—your living room could go up in flames.” Never plug a heater into a temporary cord ; always use a dedicated wall outlet.
Small kitchen appliances that can overload cords
- Toasters and Toaster Ovens
Although compact, these devices draw heavy current. A typical toaster oven uses 1,200 to 1,400 watts. Extension cords of common gauges like 14 or 12 cannot reliably support these loads. Martinez emphasizes : “Any appliance with a heating element—mini ovens, microwaves, dishwashers—needs a dedicated outlet. Otherwise, the cord can overheat and start a fire.” - Refrigerators
Even though refrigerators draw less power than some appliances—usually between 300 and 800 watts—extension cords are still not recommended. Refrigerators run continuously, and any temporary cord connection can cause malfunctions or stress the appliance.
Choosing the right cord for safety
When you do need an extension cord for low-power electronics, be mindful of the cord’s gauge. A 14-gauge cord typically supports up to 1,800 watts, roughly equivalent to a standard U.S. outlet of 15 amps. But any device over 1,500 watts should never be connected to a cord—it needs its own dedicated circuit.
Beyond the gauge, avoid frayed or damaged cords, keep them untangled, and never place them under rugs or furniture. “People think extension cords are magic,” Martinez says, “but they have limits. Respect them, and you protect your home and family.”
Practical tips from an electrician
- Only use cords labeled for indoor or outdoor use, depending on your needs.
- Plug electronics directly into wall outlets whenever possible.
- Limit long-term use of power strips ; they are meant for temporary solutions.
- Never connect multiple cords together in series.
These small precautions can make a huge difference in preventing fires, protecting appliances, and extending their lifespan.
Personal Experience
I once plugged a portable heater into a cheap extension cord during a cold winter night. Within minutes, the cord became hot, and I immediately unplugged it. That scare reinforced for me the importance of respecting the limits of cords and circuits. A simple wall outlet would have avoided the risk entirely—and it’s a lesson I share with friends and family constantly.
By following these guidelines, homeowners can safely enjoy their electronics without putting their home at risk. Extension cords are not inherently dangerous—but misuse, especially with high-power appliances, can turn a simple convenience into a major hazard.
Safety First
The key takeaway is straightforward : heat-generating appliances and continuously running devices should always have a dedicated outlet. Use extension cords only for low-wattage electronics and temporary needs. This simple approach minimizes fire risk and keeps your home secure.
What do you think—have you ever had a close call with an overloaded cord ? Share your experiences in the comments, and let’s spread awareness about safe extension cord use.
