24 June, 2025
Hi-Lite Electric Inc.
Most homes today have various tools and appliances that require significant electricity. Whether you live in a house, apartment, or mobile home, having enough power outlets can be a challenge. Chances are, you have extension cords and power strips helping to power your space.
While power strips are a great invention, allowing you to do more, safety becomes a concern as they can be easily overloaded. Knowing how to use these power bars safely lets you enjoy them without unnecessary stress or worry.
While many of these tips may seem like common knowledge, check your power strips to see how many do’s and don’ts you’re following; you might be surprised.
Isn’t that the same thing? Can’t you plug multiple things in at the same time? While both help distribute power from a single outlet, there are key differences.
A power strip is more durable, often includes a surge protector, and allows multiple items to be plugged in and used simultaneously. The short cord limits how far from the outlet you can go, but it’s suitable for long-term use.
Most extension cords have one, two, or three plugs. These longer cords can stretch farther but are meant for short-term use only. They’re commonly used for outdoor lights, festive decorations, or even to power a block heater in winter.
Essentially, a cord is for long distances and short periods, whereas a strip is safer for long-term use but has limited reach.
Using a power strip to distribute electricity around your home can be helpful, especially when outlets are scarce. However, it’s important to use them safely and be mindful of how much you’re plugging in.
Here are 12 tips on how to do just that:
Large appliances draw more power and require specific safety features when installed. Using an extension cord or power strip is highly inadvisable. Even with surge protection, appliances like dishwashers and stoves should always be plugged directly into a wall outlet.
Unlike extension cords, power strips can be used for extended periods. However, it’s recommended to turn off appliances when not in use to prevent electrical fires or other issues.
If you’re relying on a power strip for weeks or months for devices like TVs, game consoles, or sound systems, it may be time to call a professional to add more outlets.
Most power strips now include built-in surge protection, designed to shield your devices during power outages or sudden surges in the grid.
A short or a surge can start electrical fires in unprotected or overloaded strips and cords. To lower this risk, keep your power strip away from moisture and avoid overloading it with additional extension cords.
One drawback of power strips is the short cable. While some are longer, they still may fall short of your needs.
Trying to solve this by plugging extension cords or other power strips into each other is dangerous. The more layers you add, the less effective the safety features become. This can damage your devices or even start an electrical fire.
Water and electricity don’t mix. It’s frustrating when there aren’t enough outlets in the bathroom for devices like curling irons or electric toothbrushes, but using a power strip isn’t the solution.
These items draw a lot of electricity, creating risk. They should only be plugged into a wall outlet. While it might feel limiting, bathroom outlets are specifically designed to handle devices in a space prone to steam and condensation.
Several kitchen appliances should never be plugged into a power strip:
These draw significant electricity and pose safety risks. Plugging them directly into the wall is the safer choice, especially for extended use.
Avoid plugging cords into the stove’s outlet as well. This can cause power stability issues and, when the stove is in use, increase fire risks.
Trying to warm up a room on a cold night is understandable, but connecting a space heater to a power strip is dangerous. These appliances require a lot of amps and should only be plugged into a wall outlet. Even with a surge protector, the risk of fire is much higher.
Power strips are labelled for indoor or outdoor use, and that label matters.
Cords are designed differently based on their intended environment. Indoor cords are thinner and not made to withstand outdoor elements. Outdoor cords are thicker and weather-resistant to prevent faults that can lead to electrocution.
Outdoor cords can be used inside, but they’re bulkier and best kept where they belong—outside.
Power strips aren’t the most attractive feature in a room and can cramp your style, but hiding them under rugs, in boxes, or squeezing them into tight spots is unsafe.
The heat they generate can cause a fire. Stepping on one can damage the outlets or cords, increasing the risk of electric shock. Unnoticed damage becomes a serious hazard.
If a socket on the strip is damaged or not working, don’t use it. The issue could indicate deeper internal damage. Continuing to use it creates a fire hazard.
Watch for signs like black marks, melted plastic, a fishy smell, or flickering reset switch lights. These all signal a problem—discard the strip immediately.
Electricity and water are a dangerous mix. If your power strip gets wet, it could harm you and destroy anything plugged into it.
The risk of shock rises sharply with water exposure. Worse, the danger might not be obvious until the bar or an appliance is turned on.
Always check your cords before use, especially near pet fountains or fish tanks. Wherever there’s water nearby, inspect the extension first.
Kids are curious and learn by doing. As soon as your back is turned, they’re exploring. Power outlets, extension cords, and bars pose real risks to little ones.
Outlet covers are great for wall sockets, but cords and strips are harder to childproof. Keep them out of reach without causing overheating or damage.
Understanding the do’s and don’ts of power strip usage is key to preventing electrical hazards in your home. If you’re frequently relying on extension cords or overloaded strips, it may be time to take the next step toward a safer, more efficient setup.
For more information about updating your electrical system or to speak with a licensed electrician in Toronto, call Hi-Lite Electric at 416-800-5523 or contact us here.
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