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How to Properly Use a Power Strip

Power strips and extension cords are kind of an inevitability in most homes. We just have so many modern appliances, tools, and toys that need power! And you’ve only got so many outlets. Because of this we at Moser Electric think it’s really important that you understand the ups and downs, dos and don’ts of how to use a power strip.

What’s the Difference Between a Power Strip & an Extension Cord?

Put simply enough, power strips are the ones that are one length of cable that has a plug on one end and a row of sockets embedded in a plastic box on the other. Extension cords, however, have a similar setup but are typically much longer, less stable, and only feature two or three plugs. By less stable we mean that extension cords are designed to be used for hour at most, and should never be used for days, whereas a strip can handle a few days.

The Most Vital Things to Know

We know that you understand how to use a power strip. It’s pretty much plug and play! But there are a lot of things that folks don’t know about them, or that the box might not directly state. Keep in mind the following when using your power strip:

• They’re designed to handle multiple small loads. Power strips were developed so that you can power a radio in conjunction with your lamp, or a computer can stay powered while you plug in your tablet. They are not designed to handle even a single major appliance like a space heater or power tool.

• The have different voltage ratings. Make sure you pick out a strip that meets your needs. Exceeding the maximum safe voltage of a strip can mean electrical fires or blown out appliances.

• They aren’t intended for extended use. Even though they can handle a couple of days, or even a week or two, they aren’t designed as a workaround for proper electrical outlets. They lack the stability and longevity and will eventually fail, potentially taking your devices with it. If you need more plug sockets that frequently, get new outlets installed in your home!

• They should have a surge protection device. Surge protection devices are usually indicated both on the box and by a small light/switch indicator. This simple but very important device protects your equipment if a surge or short occurs.

• Thy should never be plugged into other or additional power extension devices. Chaining multiple power extenders together is like trying to build a house of cards, except the cards keep getting smaller, flimsier, and less stable. It’s one of the quickest ways to find yourself with an electrical fire or appliance damage!

Electrical Services & Outlet Installation with Moser Electric

Finding yourself in need of some electrical upgrades this year? We totally understand! It feels like every year there are more tools and gadgets to keep up with, and 2017 was no different. Our certified electricians can help you retain the access you need with our upgrade and outlet services, so contact us today to get the safe electrical access you need!

Ever wondered exactly how the power is being distributed throughout your home? We all want to save money, and we feel that if you better understand where the largest consumption is, you’ll be able to make minor adjustments to save you money! Throughout your home there are a few appliances that have been known to consume more energy. Be aware of where these appliances are in your home, and how to make these rooms more energy efficient.

ELECTRICITY IN THE KITCHEN

Although the appliances in your kitchen may not be the most costly appliances in your home, there are definitely the highest number of them. By making a few changes, you can save energy with each of these appliances, reducing the energy costs in your home:

• The fridge and freezer – it is estimated that about 4% of the annual energy costs in your home comes from the fridge and freezer. Although this doesn’t seem like a whole lot, in most homes it reaches right about $100 a year. By keeping this appliance clean you can reduce the amount of energy used to keep your food fresh.

• The oven – in most cases, a gas oven will be more energy efficient than one that is electrically powered. Although an oven that has a self-cleaning feature included will often be better insulated and thus energy efficient, using this feature excessively will be a huge waste of energy. Instead work to use a lid or tin foil to keep food from spilling over.

• The dishwasher – in most cases the dishwasher accounts for about 2% of energy costs in the home. By rinsing dishes before loading them, you will save a significant amount of water cleaning here. No matter how full you fill the dishwasher, it will still use about the same amount of energy so don’t be afraid to load it up.

Small changes in the kitchen can reduce the amount you are spending on energy appliances in your home. Assess the products you have, and determine how you can reduce costs.

ELECTRICITY IN THE LAUNDRY ROOM

Although there are only two main appliances in the laundry room, they account for a high amount of the costs of your home. The easiest solution here is to switch to more energy efficient models. If this isn’t practical for you, make changes that will increase efficiency:

• The washer – between both the washer and the dryer, 6% of the energy used in the home is accounted for. For clothes that aren’t terribly soiled, wash a full load in cold water rather than hot or warm. This will reduce the energy costs for this appliance.

• The dryer – there are models of dryers that come with moisture sensors. These can detect when clothes are dry, turning off the appliance when necessary. Although the washer can be filled to the brim, the dryer needs a little extra space to efficiently dry all articles of clothing.

There are some states that offer sales tax holidays during the summer, making it the perfect time to buy washers and dryers that are energy efficient.

ELECTRICITY IN THE LIVING ROOM

You and your family probably spend a lot of time in your family room. There may be a few appliances in here that will consume more energy than you realize:

• The lighting – the lighting is all throughout your house, but it is important to analyze where it is most used, and turn it off when not in use. For the entire house the lighting accounts for about 12% of the bills. Switch to energy efficient bulbs and turn off switches when not in use to reduce this cost.

• TV and DVD players – This will vary greatly on how much the TV is being used, but in general this will account for 3% of the homes energy expenses. To keep these appliances from sucking energy when not in use, unplug them. This can be made easier by plugging them into a power strip that can turn off everything at once.

ELECTRICITY IN THE BATHROOM

It probably isn’t surprising that the bathroom is a high energy consumer. But the reasons might be different than you think.

• Showers – Might want to hold off on (or at least shorten), those hot showers. The amount of electricity it takes to heat a shower, especially a long one, can cost you about $200 a year.

• Hair appliances – Appliances such as hair dryers and curling irons should definitely be left on for longer than necessary. We recommend only plugging in the device when you are ready to use it, and unplug it immediately after you’re done using it.

we are focused on helping you make your home as energy efficient as possible. Make the changes necessary to keep your bills low, taking advantage of every change to a higher level of energy efficiency. We offer both Both residential and commercial electrical and plumbing services.

Moser Electric would like to wish all a Merry Christmas!