Can You Plug A Dishwasher Into An Extension Cord? (Full Guide)

A dishwasher makes life easier for you in the kitchen. You can just put your dirty dishes into it, add detergent and turn it on, and you’ll have your dishes washed in a few seconds. But can you plug a dishwasher into an extension cord?

You can plug a dishwasher into an extension cord but it is unsafe. The cord will melt due to overheating and can lead to a fire outbreak. To connect your dishwasher, you need an extension cord rated for an average of 15-amp. 

Using an extension cord may work, but it poses a danger. To connect a dishwasher to an extension code, plug it directly into the wall socket. This article explains why you shouldn’t plug a dishwasher into an extension cord. 

What Happens When You Plug A Dishwasher Into An Extension Cord

The extension cord only functions for light and temporary appliances. If you plug a dishwasher into an extension cord, it will generate power higher than what the extension cord can carry. When this happens, the extension cord will begin to melt, and this can lead to a fire outbreak. 

A dishwasher is a heavy-duty appliance that requires enough power to work, and each dishwasher comes with a power cord with three prongs. They consume so much energy that generates a lot of heat. Due to this, they require a permanent connection.  

Since a dishwasher requires a permanent connection, it’s best to plug them into the direct power source. However, if you’re in a situation where a power cord is the only option you have, here are some tips you can bank on.

Factors To Consider When Selecting An Extension Cord For A Dishwasher

1. Volts

Volts measure the electrical system that sends currents from the power outlet to your dishwasher. The recommended volts for your dishwasher’s extension cord should be 125 volts. 

2. Unit Of Electrical Current(Amps)

The amp measures the current that flows from your dishwasher to the power outlet and back. So when choosing, the extension cord should have three connecting wires with a standard 15-amp. 

Some can be 13-amp or 15-amp and even 20-amp. But, whatever extension cord you use, the unit of electrical current shouldn’t be less than 10-amp to avoid overheating that can lead to an explosion. 

3. Watts

For your dishwasher to function well, watts measure the power it needs to work.  For your dishwasher to operate efficiently, the standard watts for your dishwasher is 1,200 watts. 

4. Wire Guage

The wire gauge sizes the wires inside the extension cord and determines the current and voltage your dishwasher needs to function well. For instance, if your dishwasher requires a 15-amp, you need a wire gauge of 14. 

5. Length 

The extension cord should be 60 feet long.

Before you select an extension cord for your dishwasher, ensure that you can detect the watts, volts, and gauges. If you can’t DIY, contact your technician to help you fix it. 

In A Nutshell

It is not safe to plug a dishwasher into an extension cord. The reason is that the dishwasher consumes loads of power that are too large for what an extension cord can carry because it is a heavy-duty appliance, and when it begins to generate heat, it can cause the extension cord to melt. 

So, what’s the safest way? Plug your dishwasher directly into the socket on the wall or get a heavy-duty power cord.