Most of the home and kitchen appliances these days require electrical connections. These appliances make life easier, and the microwave is one of them. But can you plug a microwave into a power strip or any electrical source around?
It is highly recommended not to connect a high power capacity appliance like a microwave to a power strip. There are risks associated, and it might result in various safety hazards.
Now, you might ponder about the reasons behind this. Worry not, as in this article; we will be discussing it comprehensively.
Therefore, let’s get started.
Why can’t you plug a microwave into a power strip?
Microwave ovens are some high-capacity electrical appliances that require a dedicated electrical outlet or a special extension cord. It can draw around 1500 watts, which means that a regular power strip isn’t enough.
The size of appliances mistakes most people, and they plug it with a regular electrical outlet. This is a terrible practice and often results in accidents.
The best approach is to check the data plate of the appliance and figure out the power it would consume.
The strategy for microwave ovens should be the same, and you should avoid outlets like power strips or extension cords at all costs.
What are some of the accidents resulting from plugging the microwave into the power strip?
As mentioned above, plugging the microwave ovens anywhere other than a dedicated outlet would be risky. Some of the notable outcomes from such dangerous connections are listed below:
Fire
Fire can break out in your kitchen if the oven connection can’t take enough load. The microwave ovens are used to draw out a good amount of power, which only a dedicated outlet can handle.
If it’s connected using a regular power strip, chances are high for misfiring, which might result in a fire breaking out.
Damaging other appliances
When several electrical appliances are connected using the same outlet, the chances of some of them getting damaged are high. And that will only happen when multiple high-power-consuming appliances have the same outlet.
Generally, most power strips aren’t that potent enough to handle multiple appliances simultaneously. And when a power-consuming device like a microwave is connected along with others, there is a massive load on the strip.
That said, the inability of the power strip to maintain such a load might misfire and end up damaging other appliances.
Can you plug a microwave into a heavy-duty extension cord?
Heavy-duty extension cords are highly suited to microwave ovens due to their ability to handle power.
Extension cords usually have a similar capability to that of power strips. However, heavy-duty extension cords are exceptions.
Compared to the standard extension cords, the heavy-duty ones have thicker gauges and mostly look like Etherley cables. They are highly suitable for demanding appliances like refrigerators, heaters, and more.
When the concern is about microwave ovens, it is better to check whether a heavy-duty cord is recommended or not before connecting.
Can you plug appliances on a surge protector?
A surge protector is usually a good component that acts as a good protector between power surges and appliances. Whenever there is an unexpected power surge, the surge protector will serve as a shield and absorb all the additional current that might damage electronic appliances.
Therefore, it is a good idea to plug appliances into a surge protector as it offers much more reliability than power strips.
However, just lime power strips aren’t suitable for high-power appliances. So, the surge protector isn’t recommended for appliances like refrigerators and microwave ovens.
Next Read:
Can You Plug a Refrigerator into a Regular Outlet?
What are the items not to plug in power strips?
Since power strips aren’t robust, it is better to use them with low-power-consuming appliances. Because higher-power appliances need a high power outlet.
That said, here are some of the notable appliances that you shouldn’t plug into power strips:
- Refrigerator
- Microwave Ovens
- Air Conditioners
- Compressors
- Toasters
- Coffee makers
- Hair dryers
- Portable heaters
Conclusion
Plugging the microwave into a power strip is a big no in every situation. It risks the microwave oven, other appliances, and your life to some extent if you are around.
The reason is the inability of the power strips to undertake high-power loads, which might fail the power strip or even the appliances. In this regard, the best practice would be to go for a dedicated electrical outlet to connect the microwave.
Moreover, this write-up’s main aim was to inform you about the outcomes of plugging a microwave over in a power strip. We hope we were able to portray you with the right idea, and we believe you will consider this before trying anything.
I’m James. The author of Electricalaffairs.com. It’s been my passion to deal with power tools and gears. This website is mainly to talk about electrical wirings, lighting, various power source tools and accessories. I want to explore tackles and help people to grow their basic knowledge about electrical things. I would also like to help people to pick the right power tool for their daily needs.
