Extension cords provide a safe solution for powering electronics, but caution is necessary for high-wattage appliances. Appliances like refrigerators and toaster ovens demand significant power and can cause extension cords to overload and potentially spark a fire. Each extension cord has a maximum capacity based on wire gauge, with a 14-gauge handling up to 15 amps or 1,800 watts. Appliances exceeding this limit should always be plugged directly into an outlet, as using extension cords for such devices poses serious fire risks.
Extension cords are manufactured with a maximum capacity to handle electrical current, which is determined by the size or gauge of the wire used in the cord.
Any appliance requiring more than 1,800 watts should be on a dedicated circuit -- never connected by an extension cord.
Refrigerators don't have heating elements and use less wattage than other kitchen appliances, but they still demand a fierce amount of power because they're constantly running.
Toasters consume significant energy and can be a fire hazard when plugged into extension cords.
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