Can You Use An Extension Cord With A Microwave (Safety and Suitability Explained)

can you use an extension cord with a microwave  

Connecting your microwave oven to an extension cord may seem like an easy solution for reaching an outlet, but is it safe? This article will explore the pros and cons of plugging a microwave into an extension cord to help you make an informed decision.

With their high wattage requirements, microwaves are one of the biggest energy hogs in the kitchen. This means they require a lot of electrical current to operate safely. While it may be tempting to use an extension cord for the sake of convenience, there are a few important factors to consider before plugging your microwave into a cord.

Is It Safe to Use an Extension Cord With a Microwave?

This is the million-dollar question. The short answer is: it depends. Modern microwaves require significant power to run. In general, they use between 1000 to 1500 watts of electricity. By comparison, a typical laptop pulls between 20 to 100 watts.

This makes microwaves one of the highest energy appliances you’ll find in a home.

What are the Dangers of Using an Extension Cord?

The main risk of using an extension cord with a high-wattage appliance is fire. Extension cords are not designed to handle the amperage required by larger appliances over extended periods. The cords can overheat, which could potentially start an electrical fire in your home.

Can the Cord or Outlet Get Overloaded?

Yes, plugging a microwave into an extension cord can also overload the cord itself or the outlet you plug the cord into. This again raises the risk of overheating and fire. Microwaves draw a lot of current.

If the extension cord is not rated to handle the microwave’s wattage needs, it can overload the wire gauge capacity and lead to disaster.

Factors to Consider Before Using an Extension Cord

If you must use an extension cord for your microwave, there are a few important factors to consider:

Wire Gauge

Extension cords come in different wire gauges. This refers to the thickness of the wire inside the cord. Thicker wire is a lower gauge and can handle more power. Most household extension cords are 16 or 18-gauge.

For a microwave, you should use a heavy-duty 12 gauge or 14 gauge cord to be safe.

Length of the Cord

The longer the extension cord, the more resistance along the wire. This can cause voltage drops that impact performance. Go for the shortest cord length possible when connecting a microwave.

Wattage Rating

Check the wattage rating on your extension cord and make sure it exceeds the wattage of your microwave. Most microwaves need 1500 watts. Choose an extension cord rated for at least 1875 watts to be safe. This gives you a 25% buffer.

Amperage Rating

Similarly, check the amp rating on the extension cord. You want something rated for at least 15 amps for most microwaves, which pull around 12 amps during operation. The higher the amperage rating on the cord, the better.

Expert Advice on Microwaves and Extension Cords

While the above tips can help you choose a suitable extension cord, experts actually recommend against using them with microwaves at all. Here is some expert advice on the issue:

“Most electricians advise against plugging a microwave into an extension cord. The cord’s wire gauge and connectors may not be rated to handle the microwave’s current draw. This could overheat the cord and cause a fire. It’s best to plug microwaves directly into a wall outlet.” Mike Holmes, HGTV Contractor and Electrician

Never use an extension cord with a microwave oven. Microwaves draw a lot of power and need to be plugged directly into the wall outlet. Plugging into a power strip or extension cord can easily overload the cord and create a fire hazard in your home.- Dr. Oz’s House Calls Magazine

“Microwaves should be plugged directly into a properly grounded outlet of the correct voltage. The high current draw of a microwave can melt an extension cord, cause voltage drops, and potentially damage the microwave. Check your electrical code for official guidelines.” – Consumer Reports

The consensus from experts is clear – it’s best to avoid using extension cords with your microwave whenever possible. The potential risks outweigh any benefits.

Alternatives to Using an Extension Cord

Instead of relying on an extension cord to plug in your microwave, consider these safer options:

• Use an appliance cord rated for microwaves: This is a short, thick cable designed to handle high amperage.
• Install a new outlet closer to the microwave : Hire an electrician to add a dedicated outlet for your microwave in your kitchen.
• Mount the microwave oven higher: Install it at countertop height so you can plug it directly into an existing wall outlet.
• Use a shorter microwave cord: Replace the power cord with a shorter option that reaches your electrical socket.
• Buy a microwave cabinet: Choose a cabinet that positions the outlet right behind the microwave for easy and safe plug-in.

FAQs

Can you use an extension cord with a microwave?

It is not recommended to plug a microwave into an extension cord.

Is it safe to plug a microwave into an extension cord?

No, it is not safe to plug a microwave into an extension cord as it may overload the circuit and start a fire.

Why shouldn’t I plug a microwave into any outlet using an extension cord?

Microwaves draw a high amount of power and using an extension cord may not be able to handle the load, which can lead to overheating and start a fire.

Can I buy an extension cord for my microwave?

While you can buy an extension cord for your microwave, it is strongly advised to avoid using one and instead plug the microwave directly into a wall outlet.

How do I choose the right extension cord for a microwave?

It is important to choose an extension cord that has the appropriate amp and watt rating to handle the power consumption of the microwave. Always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for the correct extension cord.

Can a microwave oven be safely plugged into an extension cord?

No, a microwave oven should not be plugged into an extension cord as it may not provide the necessary power and can cause overheating and a potential fire hazard.

What is the right gauge extension cord for a microwave?

The right gauge of the extension cord depends on the current rating of the microwave. It is recommended to use a heavy-duty extension cord with a gauge that can handle the power consumption of the microwave oven.

What kind of extension cord should I buy for my microwave?

 When buying an extension cord for a microwave, opt for a heavy-duty cord that is specifically designed for high-power appliances. Look for one with a voltage and amp rating that matches or exceeds the requirements of your microwave.

Is it safe to run a microwave with an extension cord?

It is not safe to run a microwave with an extension cord as it may not provide the necessary power and can cause electrical problems or fire hazards.

What is the current rating of the extension cord for a microwave?

The current rating of the extension cord for a microwave should be at least 20 amps to handle the high power consumption of the appliance.

Key Takeaways

Here is a quick summary of the key points from this article:

• Microwaves use a lot of power, so extension cords can easily overheat or overload.
• Only use heavy, 12-14 gauge rated extension cords for microwaves.
• Keep the extension cord length short to avoid voltage drops.
• Use an extension cord amperage rating higher than your microwave’s.
• It’s best and safest to plug microwaves directly into a wall outlet.
• Consider alternative solutions like a shorter appliance cord or a new kitchen outlet.

So in summary, it’s not recommended to plug your microwave into an extension cord. This shortcut poses serious risks of overheating and electrical fire. While heavy-duty extension cords can work in a pinch, the safest option is to plug your microwave right into the wall. Follow the expert advice to avoid turning your kitchen into a blast furnace!