4 Reasons Not to Plug a Surge Protector Into an Extension Cord

It is a fire risk Extension cords are designed for temporary, single-device use, not the constant load of a surge protector plus multiple devices. The surge protector can draw more current than the cord can handle, especially if the cord is long, thin, or coiled, causing heat buildup that starts fires.

You lose surge protection A surge needs a low-impedance path to ground, but an extension cord adds resistance. This means your expensive electronics get less protection, even if the cord does not melt.

Daisy chaining is unsafe Plugging a surge protector into an extension cord creates a daisy chain of safety devices. This increases the risk of overheating and electrical failure.

There is a better solution If you need more reach, use a longer, properly-rated surge protector cord, such as a 6-foot or 10-foot one. Alternatively, move the electronics closer to the wall. Do not risk your house to save a few dollars on an extension cord.