What Should You Never Plug Into a Surge Protector?
Surge protectors are essential devices that help safeguard your electronics from power surges and voltage spikes. They are designed to divert excess electrical energy into the grounding wire, protecting your valuable equipment from damage. However, not all devices should be plugged into surge protectors. To ensure the safety and longevity of your electronics, here are some items you should never plug into a surge protector.
1. Major Appliances:
Never connect large appliances like refrigerators, washers, dryers, or ovens to a surge protector. These high-powered devices can cause voltage fluctuations that may damage both the surge protector and the appliance itself. Instead, appliances should be plugged directly into a dedicated wall outlet.
2. Air Conditioners:
Similar to major appliances, air conditioners draw a considerable amount of power. Plugging them into a surge protector can overload the device and potentially cause a fire hazard. It is best to connect air conditioners directly to an outlet.
3. Space Heaters:
Space heaters consume a significant amount of electricity and can easily overwhelm a surge protector. Plugging them directly into an outlet reduces the risk of electrical overload, overheating, and potential fire hazards.
4. Power Strips:
While power strips may seem similar to surge protectors, they do not offer the same level of protection. Power strips are simply extension cords that allow multiple devices to be plugged into a single outlet. They lack the surge protection capabilities of a dedicated surge protector and should not be used to protect valuable electronics.
5. Laser Printers and Copiers:
Laser printers and copiers often generate power surges when they warm up or start printing. These surges can easily damage a surge protector and shorten its lifespan. It is better to connect these devices directly to an outlet or use a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) for added protection.
6. Desktop Computers:
While it is generally safe to plug desktop computers into surge protectors, it is advisable to connect them directly to an outlet or use a UPS for better protection. Computers, especially those with high-end components, can be sensitive to power fluctuations. A UPS not only provides surge protection but also serves as a backup power source during outages.
7. Extension Cords:
Using an extension cord with a surge protector can be dangerous. Extension cords are not designed to handle the high electrical loads that surge protectors may encounter. If you need to extend the reach of your surge protector, it is recommended to use a surge-protected extension cord specifically designed for that purpose.
FAQs:
1. Can I plug my television into a surge protector?
Yes, it is safe to plug your television into a surge protector. It helps protect your TV from power surges and voltage spikes, extending its lifespan.
2. Can I use a surge protector with my gaming console?
Yes, using a surge protector with your gaming console is recommended. It offers protection against sudden power surges that can damage your console’s delicate electronic components.
3. Is it safe to plug my smartphone charger into a surge protector?
Yes, it is safe to use a surge protector for charging your smartphone. However, keep in mind that surge protectors do not enhance charging speed or performance.
4. Can I plug my microwave into a surge protector?
No, it is not advisable to plug your microwave into a surge protector. Microwaves are high-powered appliances that can overload a surge protector and pose a fire risk.
5. Are surge protectors necessary for LED or LCD TVs?
Yes, surge protectors are still essential for LED or LCD TVs as they protect against unexpected power surges that can damage the delicate circuitry and components.
6. Can I use a surge protector with my laptop?
Yes, surge protectors are recommended for laptops as they protect against power surges that can damage the laptop’s internal components, including the charger.
7. Is it safe to plug multiple surge protectors into one outlet?
No, it is not safe to daisy-chain surge protectors or use multiple surge protectors in one outlet. Doing so can overload the electrical circuit and increase the risk of electrical fires.