The Shocking Truth About Extension Cords (Literally)

Why “Just Use an Extension Cord” Might Be a Terrible Idea

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Most people don’t think twice about how they plug in their home appliances. But one simple mistake — using an extension cord for heavy-duty devices like refrigerators, washing machines, or dryers — can lead to disaster.

These high-power appliances draw a large amount of current. Extension cords and cheap power strips aren’t built to handle that load. Over time, they overheat, melt, or spark, turning a harmless-looking cord into a dangerous fire hazard.

According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI), over 51,000 home electrical fires occur every year in the U.S., causing nearly 500 deaths, more than 1,400 injuries, and over $1.3 billion in property damage. Electrical issues account for about 13% of all home structure fires. That’s not a small number—it’s a massive risk hiding in plain sight.

Why Extension Cords and Power Strips Aren’t Safe for Heavy Appliances

Extension cords are convenient but not meant for long-term or high-load use. Their wires are thinner, their insulation weaker, and their connectors less secure than standard wall outlets. Every extra connection increases resistance and heat, especially when pulling continuous current.

That’s why experts recommend a simple but powerful rule:👉 Plug heavy appliances directly into a wall outlet.

Doing so reduces the chance of electrical overload, overheating, and arcing—the main triggers for electrical fires.

You should also pay attention to early warning signs such as:

• Outlets that feel warm or smell burnt

• Flickering lights or buzzing sounds

• Power strips that trip or shut off unexpectedly

These signals mean your electrical system is under stress. Don’t ignore them.

Protect Your Home, Protect Your Family

Nighttime electrical fires are particularly deadly because they happen while people are asleep. The safest defense is prevention.By plugging appliances directly into the wall, keeping cords untangled and visible, and avoiding cheap multi-socket adapters, you’re dramatically lowering your risk of an electrical fire.

At Five Brothers Appliance, we’ve seen how small safety habits make a huge difference. Our mission is to help families create safer, smarter homes—one plug at a time.

We don’t just fix appliances—we help you use them better, longer, and safer.

Stay Smart, Stay Safe

If you found this post helpful, share it with a friend who still uses an extension cord for their fridge (we all know one!).

For more home appliance safety tips, maintenance advice, and energy-saving hacks, follow our Five Brothers Appliance Blog and join our growing community on Facebook.

Truth lives here — and so does home safety.

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