Power Strip Safety Tips

March 29, 2019

In a world where managing a myriad of different devices, appliances, and tools is routine, we know how essential power strips can be. With that in mind, safety when using power strips should be a top priority.  Continue reading for power strip safety tips from the pros at Buzz Electrical.

 

• Internal Circuit Breakers 

Make sure your power strips have an internal circuit breaker. Internal circuit breakers are designed to prevent fire hazards by interrupting the electric current in the event of an overload or short circuit.

 

• Never Plug One Strip into Another 

This is a tip to follow to avoid a major fire hazard. Especially if one or both strips do not have a circuit breaker, you are risking a circuit overload by “daisy chaining” your power strips.

 

• Only Use Light-Load Appliances 

Only plug light-load appliances into your power strips. These can include computers, lamps, clocks, and phone chargers.

 

• Avoid Moist Areas 

While this may seem like an obvious one, it is worth mentioning. Avoid using power strips in moist areas of your home, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and basements.

 

• Do Not Use a Power Strip with a Frayed Cable 

The casing around an older power strip can become damaged, allowing the cable to fray. If you noticed a frayed cable on your power strip, it is time to replace it with a new one.

 

• One Appliance Per Power Strip 

To avoid overloading your power strip, do not plug in more than one appliance at the same time.

 

• Do Not Attach them to Surfaces 

According to The International Association of Home Inspectors, attaching power strips to surfaces using tape, nails, or staples is “an obviously dangerous condition.”

 

• Keep it Uncovered 

Avoid running the cable to your power strips under rugs or low furniture. To avoid overheating, the cord needs air to circulate around it. A fire can easily be caused by covering it up and allowing it to overheat.

• Childproofing 

If you have small children, this is an important one. To make your power strips hazard-free to little fingers, keep unplugged strips out of reach. You should also use childproofing covers on unused outlets to prevent any accidents.

 

• If It’s Hot, Turn It Off 

If your power strip device becomes hot to the touch, give it a breather. Unplug it immediately and allow it to cool back down before resuming use.

 

• Space Heaters are Off-Limits 

A common mistake people can make is using a power strip to operate a space heater. Not all power strips can handle that amount of electricity, resulting in a meltdown.

 

• Check the Absorption Rating 

Before plugging larger appliances, such as TVs or home computers into a power strip, check for the absorption rating. An energy absorption rating for each power strip should be printed on the power strip. You should compare this rating to the rating printed on the device you want to plug into the power strip to make sure they are compatible.

•  Go Beyond Power Strip Safety Tips

Now that you have learned our power strip safety tips, you can get the most out of your household devices and appliances without taking unnecessary risks. Are you looking for more ways to improve your home electricity use? Let the Buzz Electrical team be your guide! Call us today at (479) 267-2899 or schedule an appointment by filling out a service request form on our website.