Can You Plug Two Power Strips Into One Outlet? Safety Tips for Port Washington, WI, Homeowners

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Power strips protect your valuable devices and appliances from facing damage after an electrical surge, so it's easy to see why people resort to using them in multiple outlets. Can you plug two power strips into one outlet to protect some of your most used devices? Discover the answer in this helpful guide from the team at Professional Services. 

We respond fast when you need a Port Washington electrician and will give you tips for preserving your electrical system. Learn what our experts say about plugging multiple power strips into one outlet. 

Outlet and Power Strip Limitations Exist

The average outlet provides around 15 amps of electricity. However, some older homes in Port Washington have outlets that max out at 12 amps. Most outlets with these capabilities can power small appliances and household electronics, such as:

• Phone and laptop chargers
• Lamps
• Televisions

Devices that draw more than 15 amps run the risk of overloading your circuit. This could cause a power surge which impacts the operation of your devices and in severe cases, can spark an electrical fire, which causes the most property damage of all types of house fires. Consult with an electrician about upgrading your outlets to 20 amps or higher to reduce your risk of overloading them. 

How Power Strips Support the Electrical System in Your Port Washington Home

Before we answer the question, "Can you plug two power strips into one outlet?" let's first look at how power strips work and how to use them safely. A single outlet usually limits you to plugging in two to three devices which may not always be convenient. Power strips, also known as surge protectors, contain multiple outlets so you can power several more devices all from the same source.

To maintain electrical safety with power strips, it's important to keep the wattage rating of each device in mind. Experts recommend keeping the total usage under 1,500 watts to avoid overloading the circuit. Small appliances and devices tend to have lower wattage, while large appliances like refrigerators or air conditioners can generate 1,000 watts. 

You should check the wattage rating of each device and be mindful of the 1,500 capacity before plugging multiple devices into a power strip. 

Can You Plug Two Power Strips Into One Outlet? Safe Solutions for Homeowners

Connecting two power strips into one outlet might seem like a great way to keep all of your electrical devices in one place but it comes with the dangerous risk of overloading. Electricians urge homeowners in Port Washington to take multiple power strip precautions to prevent damaging the electrical system. 

Use Low-Wattage Devices

If you're using multiple power strips in one outlet and filling those plugs with large appliances like refrigerators, dishwashers, air conditioners, and more, there's a high chance of an outlet overload which may spark a fire. But this doesn't necessarily mean that you can't fill an outlet with two power strips. 

When can you plug two power strips into one outlet without it being a safety hazard? As long as you stay mindful of the wattage capacity and connect small devices, you should be fine. For example, you could fill power strips with plugs for the following small devices:

• Phone chargers
• Televisions
• Gaming systems
• Computer chargers

Upgrade Your Electrical Panel

Turn to a licensed electrician if you have older outlets or experience frequent power surges when you use certain devices. They can look at each circuit and replace your outdated electrical panel if necessary. This should eliminate the risk of overloading your outlets. 

Add a Whole-Home Surge Protector

Some areas experience more electrical surges, and individual power strips won't be good enough. Electricians can equip your home with a whole-house surge protector so that all of your devices and appliances can withstand the outage and you can avoid extensive damage to your electrical system. 

Receive Top-Notch Electrical Services in Port Washington, Wisconsin

Can you plug two power strips into one outlet? What are the top signs of a bad outlet? The experts at Professional Services can answer these questions and more. 

If you're experiencing issues with your electrical system or want to learn tips for safely using power strips, reach out to our friendly specialists. We're the most trusted team of electricians serving Port Washington and the surrounding areas. Book an appointment online or give us a call at (262) 218-2636.