Your outlet may be overloaded.
Did you know most appliances should never be plugged into the same outlet?
Doing so could cause yourcircuit breakerto trip or even cause a fire.
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What Appliances or Devices Need Their Own Outlet?
Its best to give these appliances and pieces of equipment their own dedicated outlets when possible.
If in doubt, space them out.
“The formula is amps x volts = watts,” says Majano.
“The maximum safe wattage is 80% of that result.
So 15 amp x 120 volt = 1,800.
1800 x 0.8 = 1440.”
Majano recommends labeling your breakers, so you’re aware of what outlets are on the same circuit.
He also says to ensure you’re using your GFCI-protected outlets in areas where water and electricity may touch.
Some older homes may not have circuit breakers.
In this case, a fuse may blow and need to be replaced.
There are some other signs, too.
Its better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your home’s wiring, says Jameson.
High-wattage appliances should always be plugged directly into a wall outlet, says Worthington.
Avoid plugging high-wattage appliances into power strips to avoid overheating them, which can pose a fire risk.
Therefore, you shouldn’t plug your refrigerator, coffee maker, or space heater into these strips.
To get that same surge protection, there are safer options.
These devices have been required in new and renovated homes since the adoption of the 2020 National Electrical Code.
Estimating Appliance and Home Electronic Energy Use.
