Can you plug a toaster oven into an extension cord? This question is on your mind after noticing that your kitchen outlet is farther from your counter than expected.
Generally, you can plug a toaster oven into an extension cord, but it’s not ideal. You should read the owner’s manual first and pick the right extension cord to use based on the information you acquired.
Remember, not choosing the correct extension cord for your toaster oven can result in serious problems. So continue reading to learn how to choose the right cable for that appliance.
Table of Contents
Tips to Choose the Right Extension Cord for Toaster Oven
As mentioned previously, you must consider important factors before buying an extension cord for toaster oven. Here are the elements you must think about while you’re shopping for the right model:
1. Know The Amperage Draw And Wattage Rating
Warning: Don’t use an extension cord with a microwave oven that you found lying in your house.
Be vigilant, and read the appliance’s owner’s manual first. Search for information about the microwave oven’s amperage draw and wattage.
An average-sized microwave oven has a wattage rating of about 600 to 1,500 watts. If it’s operating at 120 volts, the amperage draw of that appliance is approximately 5 to 12.5 amps.
Document the amp draw and wattage rating of the microwave oven. It’s because these numbers are only a part of the different elements needed when searching for the right extension cord for appliances.
2. Select The Correct Wire Gauge
Wire gauge is an indicator of a wire’s cross-sectional area. The dimensions should coincide with the microwave oven’s amp draw.
If you’re about to plug electric oven into an extension cord, the extension cord’s wire should have a 22-gauge wire at least to carry up to 7 amps. But perhaps a good starting point is a cord with an 18-gauge wire, since it has a 14-amp ampacity.
Another example is if you’re trying to power a fairly large toaster oven with 1,800 watts. A good extension cord for 1800 watt appliance is one with a 12-gauge wire, thanks to its 1,920-watt rating.
3. Know The Cord Length
Voltage drop increases as the wire lengthens. So, selecting a kitchen appliance extension cord for your toaster oven with a lengthy wire may cause the device to perform poorly.
You must run a microwave on an extension cord with a wire that’s not too long or too short. Measuring the distance between the preferred location for the appliance and the wall outlet can help solve this issue.
Generally, a 14 AWG wire will carry 15 amps at 50 feet and 13 amps at 100 feet. For a 12-gauge cable, these numbers go up to 20 amps and 15 amps, respectively. You should increase the extension’s amperage rating by 20% for every 100 feet to ensure safety.
Also, don’t daisy-chain extension cords if you find the microwave oven cable too short. This act may lead to overheating, resulting in a house fire if left unchecked.
4. Select A Certified Extension Cord
Select a certified heavy duty extension cord for your toaster oven for peace of mind. Avoid purchasing an extension wire if it has a high gauge number and feels flimsy.
Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. (UL) warns users to watch out for counterfeit certification labels. These stickers also typically contain information such as Cord Set, 13A, and 1625W.
You can avoid this dilemma by purchasing an electric stove extension cord from a reputable brand.
Are There Any Risks if I Plug a Toaster Oven Into an Extension Cord?
An oven toaster plugged in to an extension cord isn’t without certain hazards. Proper appliance placement and extension wire use can help reduce these risks. Also, understanding these potential dangers can help you stay vigilant of what might happen.
Some risks that might exist when you plug a microwave into an extension cord are:
- Don’t place the extension cord behind oven. The heat from the appliance can cause the wire to overheat.
- Ensure that the cord is away from a water source. A short circuit and/or a fire can occur if a running extension wire becomes wet.
- Avoid running a long extension cord in places with heavy traffic. It may cause trips, falls, and other injuries.
- Don’t modify the extension cord’s parts to make it fit the space. Intentionally messing with the product may lead to unreliable performance or irreparable damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Plug A Toaster Oven Into A Power Strip?
Like having a microwave be plugged into an extension cord, you can typically use a power strip to run a toaster oven. But the same rule applies, wherein you should purchase and use the correct power strip for that appliance.
Can You Plug A Toaster Oven Into Any Outlet?
Avoid trying to plug a toaster oven into any outlet you see. For instance, failing to check the voltage of the outlet and/or the appliance can lead to serious issues.
For example, you have a 120-volt toaster oven, and you see a nearby outlet. If it’s a 240-volt wall outlet, plugging the appliance into that outlet can harm or destroy the device.
Conclusion
So, can you plug a toaster oven into an extension cord? Remember, this act is generally safe, provided that you use the correct extension wire for the setup.
Failure to select the appropriate extension cord and the avoidance of understanding the risks involved may lead to serious consequences. If so, irreparable harm to the appliance may be the least of your worries, as a fire can also break out from the misuse.
To determine if it is safe to plug additional electrical devices into an extension cord in your home, please refer to the following articles:
- Is It Safe to Plug an AC Into an Extension Cord?
- What Extension Cords Work Best With Microwaves?
- Is It Safe to Plug a TV into an Extension Cord?
I am Edwin Jones, in charge of designing content for Galvinpower. I aspire to use my experiences in marketing to create reliable and necessary information to help our readers. It has been fun to work with Andrew and apply his incredible knowledge to our content.