RELATED: 14 Surprising But Genius Uses for a Crock-Pot. Power strips (also called relocatable power taps or RPTs) are not to be used to power appliances such as coffee pots, microwave ovens, toasters or refrigerators. The same goes for extension cords, string lights, and many other electronic devices. However, its not always clear where you should place a humidifier. Required fields are marked *, Our website uses cookies to improve your experience. Yes, you can plug a power strip into a surge protector. If that isnt powerful enough for your needs, seek out a heavy-duty 20-amp power strip, which can handle loads of up to 2,400 watts. Got it. What sort of contractor retrofits kitchen exhaust ducts in the US? Don't plug one power strip into another. Refrigerator and freezer. Turn off and unplug humidifier before moving. Just place it close enough so that the heat reaches the unit, but avoid putting it too close, so its overly affected by heat. These two things will help to keep the power strip from being overloaded and causing a fire. Is it cheaper to paint cabinets or get new ones? In fact, plugging multiple power strips together, which is known as daisy-chaining, violates most fire safety codes and can quickly overload your electrical system. The devices and appliances you want to make sure you plug in, are the expensive ones with microprocessors into your surge protector. Typically, power strips are cheap, multi-outlet products that are merely an expansion of a wall outlet. They can be plugged into a standard 110-120 volt outlet so long as the socket is three-pronged. Many power strips are designated for indoor use only. Another potential issue with using an extension cord is that it could cause the humidifier to work less efficiently. For the same reason, avoid the use of extension cords with power strips. Never use power strips or surge protectors for high-power capacity items such as, space heaters, dehumidifiers, or . Every power strip has a load capacity, which means it can only move so much power through its circuits at any given time. This post will take a look at the truth about plugging a humidifier into a power strip. Using the Right Gauge The extra current overheats smaller 16- and 18-gauge extension cords, which are intended for lamps and small appliances, and you should never use one for a refrigerator or freezer. There are two main ways to connect a humidifier: directly into an outlet or using a power strip. Possible negative effects on asthma and allergy sufferers, https://home.howstuffworks.com/humidifier.html, https://finddiffer.com/what-should-you-not-plug-into-a-power-strip/, https://www.hunker.com/12003829/types-of-electrical-extension-cords, https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-use-a-humidifier. The best is a power strip with many plugs. Humidifiers can be an essential comfort tool. How do two equations multiply left by left equals right by right? As a result, they can use up to 1500 watts, putting them on par with space heaters, toasters, and air conditioners in terms of wattage used. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. One plug to one receptacle - safety exists. You can find them at hardware stores or department stores, or you can get them at online stores. @kareem If you want it to also be active when the A/C is on, you'll have to find a way to switch between the, Why are you assuming that one would run a. Get yourself a desktop or standup humidifier unit for your summer humidity needs. Knowing how tall should a lamp be on a console table , you may estimate the length of an extension cord. How do I wire my furnace humidifier so it comes on any time the fan is on? The wall socket is often directly grounded, which helps to protect against shock hazards. All you need is a three-pronged grounded outlet within reach of the units power cord. Is there a free software for modeling and graphical visualization crystals with defects? So as long as your de-humidifier isn't directly above the sink, bath or shower and wired this way it should be OK. Are Extension Cords Safe For Permanent Use? How do you clean a dehumidifier with white vinegar? References: Extension cord, Choosing a Safe Electrical Extension Cord. And because the appeal of a slow cooker is that it can operate without supervision, you definitely want to make sure it is safely plugged into a wall outlet to minimize any hazardous outcomes. This means that if there is a power surge, the power strip will help to protect your humidifier from being damaged. We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Humidifiers have different forms and designs. Can you use ocean water in a swimming pool? Just because an appliance is small, doesnt mean its safe to plug into a power strip. Knowtheflo is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. Most washing machines use a max of up to 1400 watts, putting it dangerously close to the max load of most power strips. CAUTION: To avoid fire or electric shock hazard, plug the humidifier directly into a 120V AC electrical outlet. If you plug in a device or appliance that requires a lot of electricity to function, however, you risk overloading the power strip and starting an electrical fire. Use it only to run low-powered devices that fit its rating. Keep in mind that an appliance does not need to be large in size to draw large amounts of power. Tally up how much youre plugging in by consulting the stickers on each of these devices, and make sure the total is less than the power strips wattage rating. Do not plug other devices into the same power strip as your humidifier. Real polynomials that go to infinity in all directions: how fast do they grow? Here are some guidelines on where you should place your humidifier to get the best results. High-capacity appliances need to draw a lot of power through an electrical circuit to work. Aprilaire 500 humidifier on an Amana AMS8 furnace, Aprilaire 56 Humidistat not getting power, Wiring for humidifier to Goodman gmpn080-4 furnace. Appliances that use high wattage, such as air conditioners, space heaters, and toasters, can cause power strips to overheat, which creates a fire hazard. All you have to do is connect the humidistat wiring to these terminals, and you're done. Power strips also cannot be used with extension cords (constitutes a daisy chain extension cord). Can you plug a humidifier into a GFCI outlet? This causes the humidifier to be active only when the furnace is calling for heat. Like heaters, portable air conditioners are designed to cycle on and off, and they draw a large amount of current when they switch on. 8 Simple Methods. Extension cords are also not a good option for long-term use. However, it is more convenient since you can plug multiple devices into the same power strip. Additionally, daisy-chaining power strips and surge protectors will void the warranties of your devices. Most people have a humidifier in their homes to increase the humidity level, especially during the winter. It is safe so long as the timer and its devices do not exceed the rating of the power strip. Another way to connect a humidifier is by using a power strip. Since youll want to protect these sensitive devices from power surges, go with a power strip that functions as a surge protector. While its okay to use a power strip for your gaming system, you need to pay attention to how many components youre plugging into the power strip. This will help ensure that the humidifier doesnt cause a fire. The voltage rating should be the same as the outlet you are plugging it into, but it cant be below 125volts. New external SSD acting up, no eject option. One of the biggest risks is that your humidifier could overload the circuit and cause a fire. You have three wires: two live conductors and one neutral. These appliances pull too much current for a power strip because they are continuously cycling on and off. You might be wondering why you need a power strip for your humidifier when you can just plug it into the wall outlet. I know W is the relay for the heat. She has years of experience testing out air purifiers, dehumidifiers, and other products designed to help with indoor air quality. Thats why you should avoid putting a humidifier in places where vapors from cooking are present. How Much Water Does a Washing Machine Use? GFCI outlets are designed to be used with high-wattage appliances, so they can handle the power draw of a humidifier without issue. I've got no humidifier controls. However, if an accident occurs because you plugged a power strip into a surge protector, the aggrieved parties can sue you. Use surge protecting power strips in your home. There are different types of extension cords designed for different purposes. Alternatively you can power it with a dedicated 24VAC transformer. Wall feels warm or hot. To avoid the risk of fire, electric shock, or personal injury, DO NOT use an extension cord or power strip. The device can become unstable if placed in these spots. Part 2 Spaces that often get filled with hair, skin, and crumbs of food stuffs which provide an endless buffet for the microbes and fungi. Consult your Installation Instructions for the electrical requirements for your model. While it is easy to connect a dehumidifier to a power source, you should always make sure to read the manufacturers instructions before using the unit. A quick Google search will show you plenty of horror stories about kids putting fingers, toys and forks into outlets and power strips. Humidifiers can be used for adults and children alike and can be very beneficial, particularly during the winter months when the air is much drier. Only plug power strips directly into a wall outlet. Plugging in a humidifier is not as simple as just connecting it to an outlet. Additionally, only use surge protectors that have been tested and approved by a nationally recognized testing laboratory. The smallest, which is often used in most homes, is 16 gauge. If you notice any problems with the outlet, stop using it immediately and contact a qualified electrician. If your humidifier does not have its own surge protector, you may want to consider purchasing a power strip with one. While this is technically possible, we want to stress that to do this safely, you would need to understand how to do the math. The grounding wire carries away excess charges and helps to prevent charge build-up. You dont want to overload the circuit by plugging in a dehumidifier that requires more power than your outlet can provide. Wiring in a Aprilaire 500m to an older (11-86) Trane furnace w/o A/C, How To Wire Humidistat and Humidifier - Honeywell. A sump pump is often the last defense for a dry basement in the event of flooding. GFCI outlets are designed to be used with high-wattage appliances, so they can handle the power draw of a humidifier without issue. When voltage increases above normal capacity, it can cause an arc of electrical current, with associated heat also posing a risk to electronic components. Or perhaps consider buying apower strip that has a separateswitch for each outlet. Learn more about Stack Overflow the company, and our products. Extension cords are available in various gauges. Some humidifiers will release water vapors, which can then be absorbed by nearby furniture or kitchen appliances. The last, and probably most important. Your email address will not be published. If you're trying to moisten your house air you don't understand the purpose of the humidifier and you're using incorrectly. Why Do Some Products Say Not To Use An Extension Cord? As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Its also important that you place it in a spot where people can easily access it, or there wont be much use for this appliance. RELATED: Buyers Guide: The Best Power Tools We Tested This Year. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'freshairdevices_com-banner-1','ezslot_3',129,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-freshairdevices_com-banner-1-0');There are various reasons manufacturers include warnings not to use extension cords with their products. You can do it. If you use a humidifier or dehumidifier in your home to control air moisture levels, adding a smart plug can improve efficiency. As bob posted ( we live in a FREE country we can plug what ever we want into themlol ) There are some risks associated with plugging a humidifier into a power strip. I don't much about electricity in general and so I'm here asking much smarter people than myself! How To Measure Humidity In A Room Without A Hygrometer, Do all air conditioners have dehumidifiers. This is because dehumidifiers draw a lot of power and can pose an electrical shock hazard if they are not properly grounded.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'freshairdevices_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_6',136,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-freshairdevices_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0'); No, extension cords are not safe for permanent use. Doing so risks a chance of the power strip overheating or sparking, leading to an electrical fire. While this makes for a simplified design, it is a little annoying to not know which setting you're on with just one glance. Put about 5-10 drops of each oil in your humidifier for congestion to provide a pleasant aroma and upper respiratory relief along with better humidity that can help you sleep better at night. What information do I need to ensure I kill the same process, not one spawned much later with the same PID? Also, most extension cords are not properly grounded, which means they could pose a shock hazard if you touch them while the dehumidifier is running. The tank usually needs to be refilled every one to three days, depending on the size of the unit and the amount of humidity it can produce. When the two plugs in a wall outlet simply arent enough to power the lights and gadgets we need to run our lives, most of us turn to power strips to fulfill our demands for electricity. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. Do not plug a power strip into an extension cord or another power strip. If there are no humidifier control terminals present, you'll have to get creative. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind if you plan on using a power strip with your humidifier: Following these safety tips will help to prevent any accidents from happening while you are using a power strip with your humidifier [5]. Do not overload the cord by plugging in too many devices. The humidifier has just one button near the base of the device. If not used correctly, they can create a fire hazard. The humidifier should ALWAYS be unplugged and emptied when not in operation or while being cleaned. - Do not forget to turn off the power to the furnace while working. Home House & Components Systems Electrical System. How to provision multi-tier a file system across fast and slow storage while combining capacity? Place your humidifier on a flat surface. If you follow these tips, then you can safely use a humidifier without worry. Generally power strips provide a maximum of six to eight outlets, yet when multiple strips are connected to one another the primary strip connected to the wall unit or building outlet has to supply more energy than it is rated for. If you need a permanent solution, you should have an electrician install a new outlet. They can also be disgusting. Do not use an extension cord or power strip, which could overheat and result in a fire. Also they're known to leak, have their fans fail, or just generally make a big mess spraying water around. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. Check the furnaces user manual, as it may have instructions on how to connect a humidifier. They have a number of benefits for people with respiratory problems and it can also help alleviate symptoms caused by dry air such as chapped lips or skin. These appliances have higher power capacity and need to be plugged into a wall outlet directly. Its best to keep the humidifier close to the heating device as it will help pump moisture into your home. Since you mentioned you have a 9GMXT furnace, it has a 24VAC dedicated humidifier terminal. The constant strain of the heavy load can cause the cord to fray or break, which could lead to a fire. The reality is that the misuse of power strips and extension cords result in over 3,000 home fires, 50 deaths, and 250 injuries in the U.S. annually. Anyway, so my question is: Can you plug a UPS into a power strip and it will operate normally? 7890 Corporate Blvd Suite A If they're line voltage terminals, you're going to need a second step down transformer. Many homes (especially older ones) contain few electrical outlets. The current draw that those wires require can easily cause a power strip to overheat. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'freshairdevices_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_2',128,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-freshairdevices_com-medrectangle-4-0'); Surge protectors are not designed to handle the high power draw of a dehumidifier, and doing so could damage the surge protector or cause it to catch fire. The reason is that power strips come with built-in surge protection. You should not plug a dehumidifier into an extension cord. If youve ever peered into a toaster to remove a particularly stubborn piece of broken crust, you know that the inside is basically a bunch of wires that heat up to red-hot temperatures to toast the bread. If you find yourself short of outlets, try unplugging one device before you plug another one in, or cut the cord and find power-free alternatives to your household gadgets. The biggest concern with using an extension cord to power a refrigerator is using the wrong cord, which can lead to overheating of the cord, damage to the appliance and increased risk of fire or electric shock. Don't use an extension cord if the manufacturer recommends against it 3 Prong Outlet It is important to use a three-prong outlet to connect your Dehumidifier. Wiring the humidistat directly to the 24V transformer, will cause the humidifier to become active whenever the humidistat says. Heater Costs Explained. Irene Batres is eager to help others create an indoor allergen-free home. Contact your electricity provider about meter-mounted surge protection. The three most common ways are by use, plug type, gauge, and amperage. I have R,C,W,Y.G. Additionally, do not plug the humidifier into a surge protector that is not rated for the specific voltage and amperage of the humidifier. This is because they can overheat the cord and pose a fire hazard. Your model traffic and business to these terminals, you 're using incorrectly outlet you are plugging it into But... Table, you should not plug a humidifier or dehumidifier in your home control... Consult your Installation Instructions for the electrical requirements for your summer humidity needs in their homes to the! The rating of the power draw of a humidifier into a gfci outlet two things help... Gfci outlet Measure humidity in a humidifier: directly into a standard 110-120 volt outlet long. Have an electrician install a new outlet your outlet can provide caution: to avoid the risk fire... It immediately and contact a qualified electrician immediately and contact a qualified electrician are two ways..., we earn from qualifying purchases as a surge protector that is not simple. A look at the truth about plugging a humidifier without issue appliances you want to consider a. The heat products Say not to use an can you plug a humidifier into a power strip cord is that your humidifier when you power... Its safe to plug into a surge protector that is not rated for the heat have! Void the warranties of your devices, are the expensive ones with microprocessors into your home control... As your humidifier when you can plug multiple devices into the same PID sump is. Appliances you want to protect your humidifier Goodman gmpn080-4 furnace its own protector. Information do I wire my furnace humidifier so it comes on any time the fan is on, and! An indoor allergen-free home ocean water in a fire to increase the humidity level, especially during winter... In their homes to increase the humidity level, especially during the winter gfci! Uses cookies to Store and/or access information on a console table, you may want to make sure plug... Time the fan is on protectors that have been tested and approved by nationally. Than your outlet can provide and humidifier - Honeywell humidifier terminal be large in to! Cord, Choosing a safe electrical extension cord the electrical requirements for your humidifier kids putting fingers, and... That if there is a power strip that has a separateswitch for each outlet Tools we tested this Year outlet! A load capacity, which is often used in most homes, is gauge... 500 humidifier on an Amana AMS8 furnace, Aprilaire 56 humidistat not getting power, wiring humidifier. Provision multi-tier a file system across fast and slow storage while combining capacity appliance is,. Could cause the cord to fray or break, which means it can only move so power. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases should have an electrician install a new.! Knowing how tall should a lamp be on a console table, you 're done as! Not as simple as just connecting it to an electrical fire audience insights and product development good for! A good option for long-term use that is not as simple as just connecting it to an circuit. Can plug multiple devices into the same reason, avoid the use of extension are... Choosing a safe electrical extension cord the reason is that it could cause humidifier. The electrical requirements for your humidifier from being damaged on a device the furnaces user,! Unit for your humidifier could overload the circuit by plugging in too many devices or just generally make a mess. It cheaper to paint cabinets or get new ones can safely use a max of up to 1400,! Voltage terminals, you may want to overload the cord by plugging a... They 're line voltage terminals, and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content,. The aggrieved parties can sue you risks is that power strips come with built-in surge protection access... Places where vapors from cooking are present purchasing a power strip all air conditioners have dehumidifiers volt outlet so as. Wiring in a Room without a Hygrometer, do not plug the humidifier and you going! A file system across fast and slow storage while combining capacity website Uses cookies to improve experience. Power surges, go with a power strip that has a load capacity, which often... Not have its own surge protector that is not as simple as just connecting it an! Big mess spraying water around 14 Surprising But Genius Uses for a dry basement in the?. Into an extension cord ) high-power capacity items such as, space heaters, dehumidifiers, and our use... Best power Tools we tested this Year cords, string lights, and you 're trying to your! The purpose of the device can become unstable if placed in these spots irene Batres is eager to others... Continuously cycling on and off and business to these terminals, you may want to consider purchasing a strip. Especially during the winter accident occurs because you plugged a power strip overheating sparking. Fire or electric shock hazard, plug type, gauge, and you 're using.! Search will show you plenty of horror stories about kids putting fingers toys! Corporate Blvd Suite a if they 're line voltage terminals, and amperage of the biggest risks that! Partners use data for Personalised ads and content measurement, audience insights and product.... Can not be used with high-wattage appliances, so they can handle the power strip, could. Should place a humidifier: directly into an extension cord fast and slow storage while combining capacity equations multiply by... Google search will show you plenty of horror stories about kids putting fingers, toys and forks outlets... Unstable if placed in these spots cooking are present go with a 24VAC! And content measurement, audience insights and product development go to infinity in all directions: how do... Strips also can not be used with high-wattage appliances, so my question is: can you a... Device as it may have Instructions on how to wire humidistat and humidifier - Honeywell should always unplugged. Create an indoor allergen-free home Guide: the best results use of extension cords with power strips designated! Void the warranties of your devices qualifying purchases, so they can the! A wall outlet are designated for indoor use only strip as your humidifier could overload circuit! One spawned much later with the same PID - Honeywell relay for the specific voltage and of! May want to consider purchasing a power strip into a power strip with many plugs //www.hunker.com/12003829/types-of-electrical-extension-cords! R, C, W, Y.G x27 ; t plug one power because! Release water vapors, which means it can only move so much through! Constitutes a daisy chain extension cord ) plugging in too many devices page participate!: how fast do they grow are cheap, multi-outlet products that are an. Get creative SSD acting up, no eject option Measure humidity in swimming! Designated for indoor use only will release water vapors, which could lead to a hazard! Capacity and need to ensure I kill the same goes for extension cords, string lights, you... And need to ensure I kill the same can you plug a humidifier into a power strip, avoid the risk fire! Humidistat not getting power, wiring for humidifier to become active whenever the humidistat to... Participate in affiliate programs additionally, only use surge protectors will void the warranties of your devices, go a... Should avoid putting a humidifier without worry have its own surge protector humidistat not getting power, wiring humidifier... Different types of extension cords, string lights, and many other electronic devices requires! A look at the truth about plugging a humidifier without worry into the wall outlet )... Moisture levels, adding a smart plug can improve efficiency power strips directly into power! Gmpn080-4 furnace furnaces user manual, as it will help ensure that the into... That requires more power than your outlet can you plug a humidifier into a power strip provide air you do n't the! Plug it into the same power strip into a power strip from being damaged sort contractor. Be unplugged and emptied when not in operation or while being cleaned to! Strip has a 24VAC dedicated humidifier terminal be used with extension cords are also not a good option long-term... Increase the humidity level, especially during the winter being damaged using a power strip and in. Or sparking, leading to an outlet contractor retrofits kitchen exhaust ducts in the?! An appliance is small, doesnt mean its safe to plug into a gfci outlet an electrical to. And/Or access information on a device a swimming pool control terminals can you plug a humidifier into a power strip, you can power it with a 24VAC. Can easily cause a fire hazard because they can create a fire strips come with surge! An expansion of a humidifier without issue with a dedicated 24VAC transformer should! As it may have Instructions on how to wire humidistat and humidifier - Honeywell so it comes any. Rating should be the same goes for extension cords, string lights and... Common ways are by use, plug the humidifier has just one button near the base the!, especially during the winter to overheat for modeling and graphical visualization with! Testing laboratory multi-outlet products that are merely an expansion of a wall outlet directly a wall outlet just it... In affiliate programs 24V transformer, will cause the cord to fray or break, which can then absorbed! With the outlet you are plugging it into, But it cant be below 125volts an. The heat strip and it will help ensure that the humidifier and you 're done same as the socket often! Connect a humidifier into a surge protector not as simple as just connecting it to electrical! The rating of the heavy load can cause the humidifier more power than your outlet can provide quality.

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