Why do some appliances say not to use an extension cord?

Certain high wattage appliances should not use an extension cord when possible (check the owner's manual). Using an extension cord on these appliances could cause excessive heat and voltage drop, this could damage the appliance or motor.

Can you use an extension cord with appliances?

Using extension cords

Never use extension cords to power appliances. Plug appliances directly into wall outlets. . Never use indoor extension cords outdoors. Don't plug multiple cords together.

Is it OK to use an extension cord for a refrigerator?

While most small appliances can be plugged in to an extension cord with no problem, that isn't the case with a refrigerator. Refrigerators are huge and need a lot of energy to run and thus a regular extension cord may not be able to take on the job and be a fire hazard to boot.

What kind of extension cord do I need for a refrigerator?

What Gauge Extension Cord for a Fridge? The 12-gauge cord is an extra heavy-duty appliance extension. While the extension cord's length comes into play due to voltage drop, a shorter high gauge cable is the best for a fridge.

Is it OK to plug a freezer into an extension cord?

GE strongly recommends that an extension cord not be used with a freezer due to the potential safety hazards under certain conditions.

Are extension cords dangerous for Computers?

Is it safe to plug a washer and dryer into an extension cord?

While you can plug most small appliances in to an extension cord with no issues, you should thing twice before do so for a washing machine. Using an extension cord for semi-automatic washing machines and spin dryers are generally safe as they do not draw much power.

Can a refrigerator be plugged into a regular outlet?

Refrigerators don't need special outlets. They can be plugged into a standard 110-120 volt outlet so long as the socket is three-pronged. However, it's best if your refrigerator is on its own dedicated circuit. It may even be required by the code in your area.

Do refrigerators need surge protectors?

Small, cheap appliances like lamps, can be plugged directly into the wall. But bigger or more important items, as well as appliances that require constant power, such as computers, printers, televisions, and refrigerators, should all use surge protectors.

Can you plug a refrigerator in the garage?

Most refrigerators stop working at some point during the winter months in an unheated garage, depending on climate and how well the garage is insulated. Most manufacturers do not recommend placing a refrigerator in temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

Why does my fridge keep tripping the GFCI?

This is usually caused by multiple appliances being plugged into the same circuit. To avoid this happening, make sure that your refrigerator has a dedicated circuit, which you can do by plugging your refrigerator into an alternative power outlet and seeing if it still trips.

Can you run a dishwasher on an extension cord?

We recommend to never use an extension cord to connect your dishwasher to an electrical outlet. Yes, using an extension cord will work, but it's extremely dangerous. Your power cord will eventually overheat, causing your cord and anything surrounding the cord to melt.

What type of extension cord do I need for a washing machine?

Purchase a cord that's long enough and rated to handle the amperage of the washer. As a rule of thumb, amperage ratings of 10 or below require a 16-gauge cord. For greater draw, use a 14-gauge cord. If you have an unusually long run for the cord, use a 12-gauge cord.

Can I plug washing machine into power strip?

Here are some examples of high-capacity appliances that you should not plug into a power strip: Refrigerators. Washing machines and dryers.

Do surge protectors work with extension cords?

Conclusion. Surge protector safety is a paramount concern at home and at work. You should never plug one surge protector into another, and you shouldn't connect a surge protector to an extension cord for very long either. The extension cord is not made for that kind of use.

Are outlet extenders safe?

According to the US National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), products that generate heat, such as hair dryers, space heaters, toasters or crock pots, should always be plugged directly into the electrical outlet. They pull too much power to safely use with a power strip or extension cord.

Should I use a surge protector for my washing machine?

A general rule of thumb is to not use surge protectors for high-powered appliances such as your washing machine. It's also advised to not connect multiple surge protectors together. It may seem like a handy way to get more outlets but all it is, is an electrical fire hazard.

Can you run a washing machine and tumble dryer off an extension lead?

Extension cables with just one socket at the end

But it's not ideal to plug a washing machine, dryer or dishwasher permanently into any extension cable because it introduces an extra risk of electrical overheating as well as extra potential bad connections. Many white goods appliances are plugged into extension cables.

How many amps does a washing machine use?

A washing machine typically uses between 12 and 15 amps of electricity, while a fridge typically uses about half that amount. This means that you can usually have a washing machine and fridge on the same circuit, but it's always best to check with an electrician to be sure.

Can rice cookers use extension cords?

Never use an extension cord with a portable heater. If an appliance produces heat (like toasters, rice cookers, coffee makers, kettles, portable heaters, irons, etc.) Never force it to fit into a two-slot outlet or extension cord.

Can you plug a washing machine into an extension cord?

Washing machines draw a large amount of electrical current to operate. Most user manuals will indicate that using an extension cord for a large appliance such as a washing machine is not advisable. Generally speaking, using an extension cord for your washing machine should be avoided.

Do I need a surge protector for my dishwasher?

Surge protectors are a must for any electronic device, whether it's a digital clock, a computer, a dishwasher or a home theater system. The best protection is a whole house surge suppressor backing up a plug-in surge suppressor.

Can I use an extension cord for my garbage disposal?

Some appliances should never be connected to an extension cord. Do NOT use an extension cord with the following items: ice makers, refrigerators, microwaves, space heater, hair dryer, garbage disposals, air conditioners, toasters/toaster ovens, washers/dryers, and coffee/tea makers.

Should a freezer be plugged into a GFCI outlet?

However, GFCI's are prone to a phenomenon called "phantom tripping," meaning that they sometimes activate -shutting power off to the circuit - under normal, everyday voltage fluctuations. So freezers and refrigerators should never be plugged into GFCI's.

Is there a difference between GFI and GFCI?

Ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) and ground fault interrupters (GFI) are the exact same device under slightly different names. Though GFCI is more commonly used than GFI, the terms are interchangeable.

Does a dishwasher need a GFCI?

Kitchen dishwashers installed in dwelling units require GFCI protection whether hard wired or cord and plug connected. Code Change Summary: A new subsection was added regarding dwelling unit kitchen dishwashers. Now, outlets that supply dwelling unit kitchen dishwashers must have GFCI protection.