Things You Should Never Plug Into a Power Strip
credit: iStockphoto and Getty Images
Parallel Arrays of Power Strips:
Overloading the electrical circuit by connecting many power strips in a daisy chain is a known fire hazard. The danger of overheating increases with each additional power strip because of the added resistance and possible failure spots. A single, high-quality power strip with enough outlets will do the job instead.
Connecting heat-generating appliances to a power strip is a no-go, especially when it comes to electric grills and cookers. To avoid any risk of electrical fires, these gadgets should only be plugged into direct wall outlets due to the high amount of electricity they use.
Air conditioners: Because of their high energy consumption, air conditioners are power-hungry machines that need their own dedicated circuit. You run the risk of circuit tripping, overheating, and even fire if you plug an AC unit into a power strip. To prevent these dangers, you should always plug in your air conditioner straight to the wall.
Photocopiers and printers, particularly laser ones, need a lot of juice while they’re running. If you plug them into a power strip that’s only meant for smaller loads, you can shorten their lifetime and cause electrical problems. For best performance and safety, plug these workplace equipment straight into wall outlets.
Power consumption may be high in aquariums equipped with heating components and filtration systems. You risk damaging the equipment or overheating the circuit if you plug them into a power strip. Be careful to plug these gadgets straight into a wall socket to keep your aquatic creatures healthy and your aquarium equipment working for a long time.
continued on next page
ADVERTISEMENT