With so much tech to power up our homes and offices, powerboards are a godsend! They provide speedy, easy access to various devices irrespective of which room you are in your home or commercial space. 

Yet, as convenient as they are, a heavy-duty power strip, when misused, can cause chaos. Thankfully, we have you covered. This handy guide lists eight items that shouldn’t be plugged into your power strip. Read on to discover how to stay in your home when using one of these devices.

Are power strips safe? 

Safety Of Power Strips

First things first, are power boards safe? This convenient tool, which allows you to plug multiple appliances into one spot, is safe when used correctly. To ensure the utmost safety, only invest in a contemporary power strip that boasts excellent working conditions. This comprises boasting individual switches for each outlet and internal circuit breakers.  

Avoiding old powerboards is crucial, as they can feature zero circuit breakers and frayed wires. This means they won’t function properly or safely. When using old power boards, you may experience trips to surges, which can trigger outages and, in the worst-case scenario, fires. 

Even when using contemporary power strips, avoid placing items such as duvets, clothing, or blankets over them, and always switch them off at the mains when not in use. 

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s discover what you should plug into a power strip. 

What should you not plug into a power strip? 

Even the most state-of-the-art, modern-day powerboards have their limits. There are set appliances you should avoid plugging into them. These include items that feature the following:  

  • High amperage 
  • Appliances that necessitate direct energy for lengthy periods 
  • Items that generate a lot of heat 

Read on to discover eight items you should steer clear of when using a 12 outlet power strip. 

1. Hair Tools 

Hair Tools Harm Power Strip 

There are various hair tools in existence today, many of which boast salon quality specifics. However, these items must reach high temperatures to achieve the desired styling results. The main culprits include: 

1. Hair Curlers 

2. Blow Dryers, and  

3. Straighteners. 

High temperatures come with high amperages, meaning hair appliances are among two main items you should avoid plugging into a powerboard: high-energy devices and heated devices. 

Another reason why we don’t recommend using powerboards for hair appliances? Most tend to use these items in the bathroom, as this is likely where you have the best mirror with the best lighting. It’s also one of your household's few ‘wet rooms’ and may be susceptible to water damage. 

The bottom line? Electrical items and water are not friends and should always be kept separate, especially when a dangling powerboard is involved. 

2. Larger Kitchen Appliances 

Kitchen Appliances Harm Power Strips

Other items to avoid when using an extension cord power strip include kitchen appliances. The kitchen is often the busiest room in the household and is usually where everyone congregates. One family member is likely filling the dishwasher while another is making dinner, and someone else may use the microwave. This space is generally too busy to take advantage of a power strip.  

Kitchen appliances that should be avoided because they require excessive amperage include: 

4. Coffee makers 

5. Microwaves 

6. Toasters 

The latter two run for long periods and require a separate, solo power source to run at optimum safety and efficiency. In addition to high amperages, water in the kitchen is also a safety risk you must consider. 

3. HVAC Appliances 

Heating and air conditioning units are additional items that should steer clear of indoor and outdoor power strip appliances. This includes both: 

7. Portable HVACs and  

8. Window or Wall Systems 

Out of all the appliances in your home, HVAC systems embrace the highest amperage, especially large systems like multi-split or ducted air conditioning, which are often used in offices in the height of summer. 

Most contemporary large systems, although you can’t always see these, feature dedicated internal outlets. Yet, it’s still best to avoid plugging these items into a power board, just in case they don’t. As the saying goes, it’s better to be safe than sorry!  

So, What Can You Attach to a Powerboard? 

Powerboad Safety

Now that we’ve covered what items you shouldn’t plug into a powerboard, let’s consider those you can. The following are compatible with powerboards: 

  • Smartphones and Tablets  
  • Electric Toothbrushes 
  • Earbuds 
  • Electric Shavers 
  • Televisions and Gaming Stations  
  • Blenders, Juicers, and Food Processors 
  • Lamps 

If you’re ever unsure of what you can and can’t plug into powerstrip, it’s always a good idea to speak to a specialist to revert to the appliance’s manual. 

Can A Power Strip Be Attached to Another Powerstrip? 

The simple answer is no. You can’t attach multiple power boards or extension cords. The 12 outlet power strip features 12 outlets because this is the maximum number of appliances it can handle at one time. This being said, you can still overload it if you attach t( wr9mg items. If your powerboard starts to buzz, spark, or showcase sporadic functionality, this is a clear indication of an overload. 

Trying to plug one powerboard into another generates excess voltage amounts that neither board can handle, even if a heavy duty power strip. 

The Bottom Line 

Power boards are an asset to offices and homes across the globe. They allow you to easily power up or charge several devices or appliances from one location at the same time. Whether powering laptops or charging phones, they’re a convenient way to ensure your technology is ready to use at all times, irrespective of whether you’re using a right angle power switch or devices with rocker switch wiring.  

If you follow the above tips and safety instructions, you’ll be able to make the most of your flat extension cord without worrying about the well-being of your appliances or your safety.