Can You Plug a Timer Into a Surge Protector? Important Factors to Know

A timer can be plugged into an extension cord, but the circuit’s rating needs to be equal to or higher than the timer’s rating. Most likely, the timer is strong enough to run that device without overloading if you purchased it to support a specific device. For instance, the timer is most likely certified for 13A if you want it to manage a 13A appliance.

How Can You Plug a Timer Into a Surge Protector Safely

A 15A timer may function on circuits of 15, 20, and 30 amps. However, a 20A timer cannot be used with a 15A circuit. If you wish to connect appliances and devices to the timer, choose an extension cord that can handle them.

Is It Safe to Plug a Timer Into an Extension Cord

It works the same way as if you had plugged the timer into a wall outlet. Just take in mind the extension cord’s rating and the timer. It is unsafe to use extension cords. They are simple to overload, which can result in fires. However, using a timer with an extension cord is safe if you take basic precautions.

1. The extension Cord Rating Must Match the Timer

The extension cable, timer, and appliance ratings are important. Make sure the timer can handle the load before you add Christmas lights to it. Make sure the extension cord’s rating equals or surpasses the timer’s rating if the timer’s rating is adequate. 

When a timer is plugged into an extension cable that meets the required wattage and amperage requirements, no fire will occur. This way a safe connection will be done.

2. Indoor Extension Cords Shouldn’t Be Used Outdoors

I expect you to use each timer and extension cable in accordance with its intended use. Extension cords used outdoors, for instance, have thicker insulation than those used indoors. They can survive harsh weather, including snow, heat, and rain. Timers all work the same.

You don’t want the timer to become contaminated by dirt and debris, which could cause a short circuit. If you already have outside outlet sleeves and covers, you can take precautions to protect an interior timer.

However, using an interior extension cord outside is not an option. If you must use an interior extension cord outside, make sure it is protected from moisture, debris, and snow.

3. Be Aware of the Long Extension of the Cord

Keep a close eye on how far the extension cord needs to reach. Ultimately, people utilize extension cables to move an outlet near the appliance they want to use. Between appliances and wall outlets, there is a space that an extension cord fills.

Though the extension cable is too lengthy, you could still spark a fire even if the timer operating that AC unit is strong enough to deliver the safe amount of current required by the item. Installing additional outlets close to the appliance you wish to use will be more beneficial if you need the extension cord to travel a long distance.

The length of the extension cord will be cut in half even if the new outlets are still too far away for the device to reach. Customers can use the shortest extension cords they can locate because of this. Extension cords that short reduce resistance.

4. Adhere to the manufacturer’s Guide

Follow the manufacturer’s directions carefully. You should pay attention if the instruction manual says not to connect a timer to an extension cord. Because they don’t want customers to hold them responsible if something goes wrong, several manufacturers discourage the usage of extension cords.

Extension cord use is risky with some of the timers in question, though, due to design problems. Give the manufacturer a call if you need further information. Inquire as to the limitations of using an extension cord with their timer.

What Should You Never Plug Into a Surge Protector?

It’s preferable to avoid plugging equipment into a surge protector that naturally draws a lot of amperages because doing so can result in the protector wearing out too quickly. These include appliances that have heating elements or powerful electric motors. A full list is given below.

• Refrigerators
• Washing machines and dryers
• Sump pumps
• Space heaters
• Portable air conditioners
• Microwave ovens
• Toasters
• Coffee makers
• Blenders
• Slow cookers (Crockpots)
• Rice cookers
• Hair dryers and other electronic hairstyling tools

How Do You Put a Power Strip on a Timer?

First press the power button on the top to turn it on. Next set the clock to the current date and time. To set the day hold the clock and press the day button until you get to the current day of the week. Now holding the clock button press the hour button to set the time. 

The power strip has eight outlets. The four on the right are always on and provide constant electricity. The four on the left can be set to on/off or auto. You can have four outlets automatically turn on and off at seven different times on different days. But if you want to turn the outlets on and off at the same time every day you only need to set up one program. 

Conclusion

Plugging a timer into a surge protector is not an impossible or difficult thing to do. You only have to follow the precautions mentioned in the article to do that successfully.