While you can only plug a microwave oven into an electrical outlet, extension cords are also allowed. However, be aware that they could be dangerous if you try to use them in a manner that poses a risk. Before you use an extension cord, ensure that the model you’re using has the correct specifications.
You can use an extension cord with a microwave. However, you should utilize the one that is rated to withstand the high voltage of a microwave. You should take extension cord precautions to avoid electricity-related accidents in your kitchen.
Read on to know more about how to use your microwave safely.
Contents
Can You Use an Extension Cord With a Microwave?
Yes! You can use an extension to plug in your microwave at home. But make sure that the microwave is the only appliance connected to it. Having too many connections can pose a safety risk.
If you have an oven, you might consider installing an outlet near it. You can also place the range somewhere else.
When utilizing an extension cord, ensure it is appropriately secured and not exposed to excessive heat. Heavy-duty power cables are also ideal for carrying high currents.
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What Should You Consider When Plugging a Microwave into an Extension Cord?
Using a permanent socket when it comes to your microwave is safer in general. However, you may have to use an extension cord to plug it in.
When availing of an extension cord for a microwave, there are some guidelines you should follow. Doing so will make your house safer and will not damage your equipment.
Gauge
A gauge is a standard measurement unit for measuring a wire’s thickness. It is also known as AWG, which stands for American Wire Gage. The lower the number, the higher the gauge.
Length
As the cord gets longer, its carrying capacity gets lower. To minimize the resistance and prevent voltage drop, choose a short and thick cable like the one used for the microwave.
Rated Wattage
Before buying an extension cord, ensure it has the correct rated power. Doing so will prevent it from overpowering and starting a fire.
You should also look out for your microwave oven’s rated wattage. You can locate this information on the rear part of the unit or the manufacturer’s website.
Plug
You should also purchase a grounded extension cord as your microwave has a three-pin plug. The third pin is called the grounding pin, which you should keep in place for safety. In case of failure, this component will deliver excess electricity to the ground, which is harmless.
If the grounding pin of your microwave oven removes, it will send the excess electricity to the next best conductor. It means that whoever touches it will be electrocuted.
Construction Quality
The construction quality of a wire is also essential when it comes to insulating it. It should have a 3 phase wire and should have a grounded connection.
Choosing the right extension cord must be made of solid and durable materials. The insulation helps lengthen the cord’s life span and keep you safe.
Before buying an extension cord, you must take the necessary steps to ensure it is of the highest quality.
Are There Precautions When Using an Extension Cord for a Microwave?
Some simple precautions can help you avoid getting injured while using a microwave. Follow these steps to make sure that you and your family are protected.
Attach the Plugs Securely
Before you start using a microwave, make sure that the plug is secure. You must first secure the extension cord to the outlet and ensure that you place the plug into the electric socket. These two components should be completely secure and prevent you from sparking.
Read Through the Specifications
If you’re planning on using a microwave, make sure that the model you’re using has a current rating of at least 15 A. This will allow you to set the maximum heat setting. You can always ask the professionals at the store to purchase the perfect extension cord.
Always Be Cautious
When choosing an extension cord, make sure that it has a fuse and short circuit protection. These cords should be able to handle high-wattage appliances. Having these cords comply with the safety standards will make your devices completely safe.
Check The Insulation Often
If the insulation of your extension cords gets damaged, you will have to change it. Even though you can use a microwave with an extension cord, you should always take these precautions to minimize electrocution risks.
Choosing the right extension cord can help you avoid most problems. Before you start shopping, you must compare the various options with four parameters.
How to Select the Right Extension Cord Dimensions?
Most people have multiple extension cords on their hands. However, before using them, they should ensure they’re the right size for their power needs.
Extension Cord Ratings
The wire gauge regulates the power and amperage of an extension cable. The label on the line should indicate an amperage rating, but this label may not always be visible or present.
Before choosing it, you should also determine the number of amps or volts drawn by an appliance or instrument connected to the extension cord.
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Safety Measures
You should avoid cords that don’t have a ground connection. Bare wires and fringes can lead to electrical shock, and users should inspect the ends of their extension cables for damage. If you have a damaged plug, you can replace it at your local hardware store.
An extension cable should be as short as possible and feature three prongs to ensure it’s UL-certified.
When choosing a wire gauge, look for the AWG rating. It suggests that the product’s wires are denser, allowing them to withstand more amps and power.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Utilize an Old Extension Cord for Your Microwave?
Use caution when using a power strip or random extension cord. Doing so could lead to severe damage to your appliances or even cause them to fail.
Besides using a three-prong adapter, be careful when cutting off an extension cord’s third prong. Also, make sure that you upgrade your kitchen’s two-prong outlet.
Never run electrical wires near a food preparation area or under a rug. If a cable feels hot, it’s time to replace it.
How to Avoid Damage to an Extension Cord?
You should always hug the wall when running an extension cord from an appliance unit to your outlet. Doing so will allow you to easily reach the top of the line and prevent it from running along the floor.
This cord can get tangled in people’s vacuums, pets, and other objects, and it can cause damage to the plug. To keep this cord functional, make sure it’s made of solid materials and looks neat.
It’s possible to plug a microwave under an extension cord, but you should not do it at all costs. Before you do this, ensure that the device’s power does not exceed the rated wattage of the cord.
Also, ensure that other appliances do not connect to the same outlet as the microwave and that there are no other plug-in devices.
Conclusion
If you decide whether to use a microwave, would you want to plug it into an extension cord? You can still do it but only use the high-quality ones because it would probably cause some issues if you don’t. However, if you plan to use it, ensure the cable is safe to plug into.
It would be best to plug a microwave into a grounded circuit with a maximum of 120 volts. It will protect the appliance in case an electrical malfunction occurs. In addition, you can plug a microwave into almost any outlet if it meets these requirements.
