What Happens When You Overload an Electrical Outlet?

Electrical outlets are made to handle so much, but homeowners don’t always think about how much their outlets can actually handle. It’s not uncommon to trip a breaker when we plug in an appliance. However, plugging in too many items can do more than trip the breaker. Too many devices plugged in can cause severe damage like an electrical fire.

The United States Consumer Protection Safety Commission reported that overloaded electrical outlets caused over 3,000 electrical fires in American homes. It is important to know what to look for and the keys to avoiding overloading an outlet.

Residential electric systems are built on average household usage. Too many appliances being plugged into the same circuit will exceed the load the circuit was created for and begin to trip the circuit breaker causing the whole thing to close. The same issue arises when homeowners stack extension cords and other plugs that allow you to fit more than two appliances to an outlet.

There are a few warning signs that homeowners can see when an outlet is becoming overloaded:

• Circuit breaker trips frequently
• Outlet or switch covers that are warm to the touch
• Scorched plugs or outlets
• Flickering or dimming lights (especially after you plug in a particular appliance)
• Burning smell from outlet
• Lack of power in appliances
• Tingling or mild shock when plugging in an item

To effectively avoid overloading your outlet, you must know the amperage of your home’s breaker and fuses. Electrical safety regulations state that you can load up to 80% of the breaker’s amperage rating. For example, a 40-amp breaker will trip if it draws 32 amps of power.

Homeowners should aim to stay below that 80% line. This will ensure you won’t trip your breaker when you have to plug in those sparsely used appliances like a vacuum cleaner. It is also beneficial to recognize how much power your everyday appliance needs. Knowing this will help you understand what to unplug before plugging another device.

Avoid using extension cords for an extended period. Extension cords should only be used on occasion. When using an extension cord, please don’t use it for major power appliances.

Try to avoid plugging in two big devices in the same outlet. Separate them if you can. Lastly, avoid plugging in heat-producing items in the same outlet or extension cords.