Surge protectors are an essential electrical component used to protect your electrical appliances from the dangerous effects of a power surge. But can you plug a washing machine into a surge protector?
Although not needed in most cases, you can plug a washing machine into a surge protector. But it depends on the capacity of both the protector and the washing machine. Not every surge protector can handle the load of your washing machine. You have to select a compatible surge protector based on the specific ratings.
This article will discuss in detail the necessary factors for choosing the appropriate surge protector for your washing machine.
Can You Plug a Washing Machine into a Surge Protector?
Like I already said, yes, you can plug a washing machine into a surge protector. But the surge protector must be able to withstand the power consumption of the machine.
Otherwise, the protector will trip the circuit unnecessarily. So, you have to choose the best surge protector for your machine.
There can be a problem with plugging a washing machine into a surge protector. Well, washing machines are electro-mechanical-based appliances that draw a lot of currents or create surges at certain times.
So, the machine itself can trip the surge protector. That’s why it is often said not to use a protector for a washer. Using an extension cord permanently may not be a solution either.
So, to choose the right protector, we need to understand the requirements of a washing machine. Let’s start with the basics. I will be describing point by point to let you fill in the information you need.
How Can I Choose the Perfect Surge Protector for My Washing Machine?
There are several factors that affect the choice when choosing a surge protector for your washing machine. These factors play a critical role in the operation of the washing machine.
I will mention these factors below and brief you on them so that you can choose the perfect surge protector for yourself.
Factors to Consider when Buying a Surge Protector
Maximum Voltage
Surge protectors come in many different models and they can all withstand various ranges of surges.
The highest voltage that the protector will let through before it activates the safety feature is known as clamping voltage.
Verify the voltage that the washing machine uses. Choose a surge protector that won’t allow more power than your device can handle.
The clamping voltage should usually be lower than 700 Volts.
Joule Rating
An average power rating of a washing machine is around 1200 Watts. There are also both higher and lower-power-rated machines in the market.
If you are using a machine that is rated 1200 Watts, your device is drawing about 5 Amperes current from the source at 240 V.
If the washing machine has a higher power consumption, for example, 2000 watts. The current flow will increase and result in over 8 amperes. Thus, the surge protector must be capable enough to carry this current.
Safety Rating
Each time you purchase a surge protector, look for UL ratings. A US federal agency has given UL permission to carry out safety tests.
For washing machines, you should get a surge protector. Which has UL 1449 security standards. UL 1449 is perfect for washing machines and dryer surge protectors
Warranty
Warranty is a necessary component that must be checked before buying any electrical components, as they are prone to damage.
If a product is under the warranty period, you will either get a free replacement, or the seller will fix it for free.
Therefore, make sure to buy a surge protector with a decent warranty period. But do not compromise on quality.
Which Is the Best Surge Protector for Washing Machine?
This might be a tricky question to answer as the answer depends on your washing machine. But generally, a surge protector that has over a thousand joules of energy rating with the correct capacity that matches the machine’s capacity is a good choice.
Right now in the market, there are several models of Tripp Lite surge protectors that match the criteria to be the best protector for your washing machine.
Among them, there is Isobar Ultra 2 which has an energy consumption rating of 1410 Joule. It is a good choice for your washing machine.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
There is a lot of confusion related to the washing machine and surge protector thing. A dryer is also kind of related thing to the washing machine.
People also ask whether they can plug a dryer into a surge protector. So, I am going to pick the questions and answer them for you.
1. Do Washing Machines Need Surge Protectors?
Generally, a washing machine does not need to be plugged into a surge protector. In case you wish to be extra protective of your appliance and choose to protect it, you can use a surge protector. But it must be compatible.
If you use your washing machine on a daily basis, you may opt to use a surge protector. But if you only use it occasionally, there is usually no need for it.
2. Can a Power Surge Damage a Washing Machine?
Yes, a power surge can damage any electrical item that is unprotected. So, your washing machine can also get damaged by a power surge and become unusable.
3. What to Use for A Washing Machine- Power Strip or Surge Protector?
A power strip is just an extension of outlets. On the other hand, a surge protector gives protection against surges. You should use a surge protector instead of a power strip for the washing machine.
Summary
This article should provide you with the answer to the question, “Can you plug a washing machine into a surge protector?”. I have mentioned all of the factors you need to consider to do so.
Therefore, make sure that the surge protection is properly rated to handle the electrical load of the washing machine. And if you have any confusion, feel free to consult a professional for his opinion.
