An energy expert has warned that plugging certain high-wattage appliances into extension leads could be quietly increasing the risk of electrical fires
With a plethora of gadgets and appliances and a shortage of sockets, it’s no surprise that many households resort to using an extension cable. However, an energy expert has warned that this seemingly harmless solution could be quietly increasing the risk of electrical fires.
Justin Nielsen, an energy specialist at Wolf River Electric, explained: “Extension leads are rated to carry a maximum current. When you plug in equipment that draws a lot of power, you risk exceeding the lead’s design limits. If the cable is operating outside its safe characteristics, it can overheat.
“In more severe cases, overheating can result in melted insulation or even a house fire. Just because it turns on doesn’t mean it’s safe. Electrical safety is about load, not just connection.”
With this in mind, households are being advised to refrain from plugging the following appliances into an extension lead.
Microwave ovens
The expert points out that microwaves draw a substantial amount of current, even if they’re only in use for a few minutes, reports the Express.
They require a high level of power very quickly to efficiently heat the food inside. Justin noted that a surge can put strain on an extension lead, especially if other devices are also plugged into it.
He elaborated: “Kitchen appliances are often grouped together, which increases the temptation to use a multi-socket extension. But high-wattage devices like microwaves are safest when plugged directly into a wall socket.”
Fridge freezers
The specialist explained: “The issue with fridge-freezers is not just power draw, but duration. They cycle on and off continuously, pulling current throughout the day. That ongoing load can cause an extension cable to warm up over time.”
When a cable is coiled or covered, the expert warned heat cannot dissipate properly. Over time, this can damage the insulation.
Washing machines
Justin highlighted that washing machines are among the most power-hungry appliances in the typical home.
He observed: “They draw a large amount of current during heating cycles. When the machine heats water, the energy demand spikes. That is when extension leads are most at risk.”
Contemporary machines can draw between 2,000 and 2,500 watts at peak operation, and this should always be supported by a fixed wall socket.
Kettles
Few appliances are used as regularly as a kettle in British households. They heat water rapidly, which means they draw a high current in a short period.
Plugging this into an extension lead substantially increases the risk of overheating.
Justin warned: “People often plug kettles and toasters into the same extension on the kitchen counter. That combination can be particularly risky.”
Portable electric heaters
Portable electric heaters are ideal for those cooler evenings when you don’t want the heating on.
However, according to Justin, they are “particularly dangerous” on extension leads. They draw sustained high power for extended periods, and are designed to be plugged directly into a wall outlet.
Justin warned: “Heat and electricity are already a risky mix. Adding an overloaded cable into the equation is not something I would ever recommend.”
