7 Dangerous Appliances You Should Never Plug Into an Extension Cord: Expert Warns of Deadly Fire Risks

As winter’s icy grip tightens and temperatures plummet to record lows, millions of Americans are cranking up their space heaters to stay warm. But before you reach for that convenient extension cord, experts are issuing a chilling warning: you could be risking your life.

Portable heaters and other high-wattage appliances are responsible for thousands of fires annually, with extension cords often serving as the deadly catalyst. “No extension cords whatsoever” for any device that heats up or runs constantly, warns Paul Martinez, owner of Electrified NYC in Brooklyn.

Here are the seven most dangerous appliances you should never plug into an extension cord:

1. Air Fryers – The Kitchen’s Hidden Firebomb

Those countertop wonders that promise crispy, oil-free meals can draw up to 2,000 watts of power. That’s enough electricity to melt standard extension cords and ignite a devastating house fire. If you don’t have counter space, it’s safer to only use your air fryer when needed and plug it directly into a wall outlet.

2. Microwaves – Not Just a Simple Reheat

Even though many homes have built-in microwaves, portable models need their own dedicated circuit. These appliances draw massive amounts of power and can easily overwhelm extension cords, creating dangerous overheating situations.

3. Extension Cords – The Dangerous Chain Reaction

Here’s a shocking fact: plugging extension cords into other extension cords (a practice called “daisy chaining”) is one of the most dangerous electrical mistakes you can make. This creates a circuit overload that can cause cords to overheat and burst into flames.

4. Space Heaters – Winter’s Silent Killer

The Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that portable space heaters were involved in 1,700 fires per year between 2017 and 2019. When extension cords are added to the equation, the risk multiplies exponentially.

5. Toasters and Toaster Ovens – Small But Deadly

Don’t let their size fool you. Toaster ovens can draw between 1,200 to 1,400 watts – enough to turn an extension cord into a fire hazard. As Martinez explains, “A 14-gauge extension cord will not hold the amperage and can burn up, causing fires in New York City.”

6. Refrigerators – The 24/7 Power Hog

While refrigerators use less power than some appliances (about 300 to 800 watts), they run constantly. This continuous draw can cause extension cords to overheat over time, potentially leading to malfunction or fire.

7. Air Conditioning Units – Summer’s Hidden Danger

AC units need to be plugged directly into wall outlets. Undersizing your unit forces the compressor to work 10 times harder, and when combined with extension cord use, creates a perfect storm for electrical fires.

The Bottom Line: Extension Cord Safety Rules

Martinez emphasizes that extension cords should never be used with any appliances. Standard home extension cords shouldn’t handle anything above 15 amps (1,800 watts). Power strips and surge protectors should only be paired with electronics, never heating appliances.

Tags: space heater fire hazard, extension cord dangers, air fryer safety, microwave electrical safety, daisy chaining risks, winter fire prevention, electrical fire safety, appliance safety tips, home fire hazards, extension cord safety rules

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