How to Safely Use a Power Strip

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These days, almost every house is full of several different appliances and gadgets. Computers, phones, laptops, tablets, and numerous other devices depend on electricity. However, compared to the number of devices we use, our home’s electrical outlets are insufficient. So, how can you plug in all the appliances and charge all the gadgets simultaneously?

Power Strip

Since our homes are designed with limited outlets, it becomes inevitable to use extension cords and power strips. A power strip is a single-length cable connected to a box with multiple sockets to supply power to various devices simultaneously. There is no denying that power strips make our life easier; however, just like any other electronic device, power strips also have some safety hazards.

The power strips have become a go-to solution for many homeowners, but they may also seriously threaten your safety if not used correctly. In most cases, power strips catch fire due to wrong handling, which includes connecting high-power appliances. But if you follow some basic rules, these strips are quite safe.

If you avoid making some common mistakes, power strips are easy, convenient, and safe to use. So, before you go plugging away, read the following safety tips to protect your home, family, and appliances.

Consider Wattage Needs

When purchasing a power strip, you should keep your wattage needs in mind. Investing in a strip that can handle your wattage requires is important. Power strips are available in several different types to serve different purposes. When shopping for a power strip, you will find office power strips, industrial strips, hospital power strips, and many other options. So, choose the right one to handle your specific needs.

Daisy-Chaining is a Big NO

Connecting multiple power strips in series can increase the chances of a blow-out or electrical fire. Chaining power strips into one another is known as daisy-chaining, is responsible for causing most electrical fires. This hazardous practice can also cause severe damage to your appliances. To avoid this problem, buy a power strip with a long cable or place your devices closer to the outlet and power strip while in use.

Allow it to Breath.

Another common mistake is covering the power strips or cords with a blanket or other fabric. Often, people don’t pay attention that their power strip somehow got covered with a rug or blanket while it’s plugged in. When this happens, the strip produces heat and catches fire.

Overloading the Strip

It would help if you did not plug in large, high-power appliances like refrigerators, microwaves, hairdryers, washing machines, or space heaters to avoid an electrical fire. If you connect high-current appliances, it will overload a power strip and will trigger a fire. The maximum limit of your power strip is mentioned on the device, so never exceed that limit. Before plugging multiple devices into the strip, keep in mind the voltage rating to prevent any hazards.