9 things you should never plug into an electrical outlet

 

Plugging electrical appliances into an electrical outlet is incredibly convenient and economical. But did you know that it can also pose certain risks?

Plugging in high-wattage appliances or overloading the outlet can actually lead to serious problems. It can damage household appliances, cause power outages, and even start fires! How can I be so sure?

Well, simply because it happened to me. I can say that since then I have been extremely careful about what I do… Discover 9 devices you should never plug into an electrical outlet.

First, check the maximum power of the outlet.

Before we give you the list of electrical appliances that should not be plugged in, you should know one thing. All electrical outlets have a maximum power they can handle, indicated on the power cord.

So, the first thing you should do before plugging in your electrical appliances is to check this information. Then it’s very easy. You just need to add up the power rating of each device plugged into the outlet.

How can I find out the power of a specific device, you might be wondering?

Just like with the socket, this information is printed on each electrical appliance. Let me give you a concrete example. Imagine that your socket has a maximum power of 3500 W. If you plug in your oven (2500 W), your vacuum cleaner (800 W) and your kettle (250 W) at the same time, you will exceed 3500 W (2500 + 800 + 250) = 3550 W. There is only one solution in this specific case.

Unplug one of the electrical appliances from the socket to lower the current below its maximum power level. Otherwise, it can be very dangerous. Now let’s look at all the appliances that should not be plugged into a socket.

The oven is undoubtedly one of the most energy-intensive household appliances. Even if you don’t use it regularly, you definitely shouldn’t plug it into a socket!

It is best to have a separate outlet to avoid the risk of dangerous overheating.

2. The refrigerator

So I understand what you mean. The refrigerator is not the most energy-intensive appliance. Since it is not too energy-intensive, we think it is okay.

You can easily plug it into an extension cord. No, no! Let’s not forget that a refrigerator draws power 24/7 from the socket. So plugging this type of appliance into an extension cord is out of the question. And I’m talking about refrigerators, but freezers are also included.

3. The washing machine

A washing machine consumes an average of 1150 kWh per year. It is therefore a very energy-intensive appliance and is therefore not recommended for an outlet at all.

Plugging the washing machine into an outlet prevents the risk of short circuits and overheating of the extension cord. The same goes for dryers. They use far too much electricity to be left plugged into an outlet.

4. Additional heating

Another very energy-intensive appliance is the heater. I’m not saying you shouldn’t use it, but make sure you plug it directly into an electrical outlet. Never use an extension cord, as this appliance will quickly overload the outlet.

5. The Microwave

Don’t think that this little metal box isn’t energy-intensive. A microwave can consume an average of 70 kWh per year. As you can see, that’s not insignificant. Therefore, you should avoid plugging it into an extension cord.

6. The Coffee Maker

Many people don’t think about it, but a coffee maker can draw a significant amount of power, especially when heating water.

If you plug it into an extension cord along with other devices, it can easily contribute to overloading the outlet.

👉 It’s always safer to plug your coffee machine directly into a wall outlet, especially if you use it daily.

7. Hair Dryers and Styling Tools

Hair dryers, straighteners, and curling irons are small, but they use a lot of power in a short time.

These devices heat up quickly and can overload an extension cord, especially in bathrooms where multiple devices are used.

👉 Never plug these into cheap or overloaded power strips — always use a direct outlet.

8. Air Conditioners

Air conditioners are among the most energy-demanding appliances in a home.

Even small portable units can draw a lot of electricity, especially during long use in hot weather.

Plugging an air conditioner into an extension cord can:

Overheat the cable

Damage the device

Increase fire risk

👉 Always plug air conditioners directly into a dedicated outlet.

9. Power Strips into Power Strips (Daisy Chaining)

This is one of the most dangerous habits people don’t think about.

Plugging one extension cord or power strip into another may seem practical, but it can quickly overload the system.

This can lead to:

Electrical overheating

Short circuits

Fire hazards

👉 Use only one power strip per outlet and avoid stacking them together.

Final Advice

Electricity is safe when used correctly — but small mistakes can lead to serious risks.