Can You Plug Space Heaters Into Power Strips

As winter's chill deepens, many reach for space heaters to supplement their home's heating. However, a common question arises: Is it safe to plug these devices into power strips?

The answer, according to safety experts and electrical engineers, is generally no. This practice poses a significant fire risk due to the high energy demands of space heaters.

The Danger Behind Power Strips and Space Heaters

The issue lies in the amount of electricity space heaters require to operate efficiently. These appliances are designed to draw a substantial amount of power, often nearing the maximum capacity of a standard electrical circuit.

Power strips, while convenient for expanding the number of available outlets, often have a lower amperage rating than wall outlets. This mismatch can lead to overheating and potentially a fire.

Understanding Amperage and Wattage

Amperage (amps) measures the electrical current flowing through a circuit, while wattage measures the rate at which electrical energy is used.

Space heaters typically require between 12.5 and 15 amps, or 1500 watts on their highest setting. Most power strips are rated for 15 amps total, but plugging multiple devices into the same strip, especially a space heater, can easily exceed this limit.

When the amperage draw exceeds the power strip's capacity, the internal wiring can overheat. This can melt the plastic housing, damage connected devices, and ultimately ignite surrounding materials.

Expert Opinions and Safety Guidelines

Organizations like the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) strongly advise against using power strips with space heaters.

They recommend plugging space heaters directly into a wall outlet that meets or exceeds the heater's power requirements. This ensures a dedicated and sufficient power supply.

According to John Drengenberg, a retired consumer safety director at Underwriters Laboratories (UL), "Space heaters should always be plugged directly into a wall outlet. Power strips are not designed to handle the high amperage draw of these devices."

He also emphasizes the importance of using space heaters with built-in safety features, such as tip-over shut-off and overheat protection.

Real-World Consequences

Fire departments across the country respond to numerous house fires each year caused by the improper use of space heaters and power strips. These incidents often result in significant property damage, injuries, and even fatalities.

In January of this year, a family in Chicago lost their home due to a fire that started when a space heater plugged into a power strip malfunctioned. Luckily, no one was seriously injured, but the incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers.

"We were just trying to keep warm," said Maria Rodriguez, the homeowner. "We didn't realize it was so dangerous to use a power strip."

Safer Alternatives and Practices

If you must use a space heater, there are several precautions you can take to minimize the risk of fire. First, ensure the heater is certified by a reputable testing laboratory like UL or ETL.

Second, place the heater on a level, non-flammable surface, away from curtains, furniture, and other combustible materials. A minimum clearance of three feet is recommended.

Consider using a heavy-duty extension cord if the heater's cord doesn't reach the wall outlet. Make sure the extension cord is rated for the same amperage as the space heater or higher.

Regularly inspect the heater's cord and plug for damage, and never leave the heater unattended while it's in operation.

Conclusion

While power strips offer convenient access to additional outlets, they are not designed to handle the high power demands of space heaters.

Plugging a space heater into a power strip can overload the circuit, leading to overheating and potentially a fire. Always prioritize safety by plugging space heaters directly into a wall outlet and following the manufacturer's instructions.

By understanding the risks and taking appropriate precautions, you can stay warm this winter without compromising your safety and the safety of your loved ones.