Plugging the wrong kitchen appliance into an extension cord can cause a fire or short circuit, according to advice reported by Daily Meal. Experts say any extension cord or power strip has a maximum load, and recommend keeping the combined draw of connected devices below 980 watts, regardless of the strip’s rated capacity, because household voltage can fluctuate.
Most extension cords can technically handle between 1,800 and 2,400 watts at once, but exceeding that limit sharply raises the risk of melting plastic and electrical fires.
The five appliances to watch
Microwaves and ovens top the list. Most microwaves draw around 1,000 watts, while ovens can reach 2,500 watts or more. Both should be plugged directly into a grounded wall outlet.
Refrigerators are another risk. Although they average only about 500 watts, their compressors and fans switch on and off constantly, and those cycles wear out a power strip quickly.
Air fryers look small but can consume between 800 and 2,000 watts. Experts say they should also go straight into a wall socket.
Blenders draw only around 300 watts in steady use, but their startup surge can multiply that figure five to ten times, a problem that is especially severe with professional-grade food processors.
Electric kettles round out the list. Standard models use about 1,500 watts, and more powerful versions can exceed 3,000 watts continuously while boiling water.
