It is generally not safe to plug a microwave and a fridge into an extension cord, especially if they are high-powered appliances. Microwaves and refrigerators require a significant amount of electricity to operate, and using extension cords can create several potential hazards:
Overloading: Microwaves and fridges draw a substantial amount of current, and if they share an extension cord, or the extension cord is not rated to handle their power requirements, it can lead to overloading. Overloading the extension cord can cause it to overheat and possibly start a fire.
Heating: Due to the high current passing through the extension cord, it can heat up significantly. If the cord is covered by carpets or placed in a way that restricts heat dissipation, it can become a fire hazard.
Damage: Frequent use of high-powered appliances on an extension cord can lead to damage to the cord itself or the appliances' power plugs, which can cause electric shocks or fires.
Poor connections: Extension cords can sometimes have loose connections or become disconnected accidentally, leading to power interruptions or electrical arcing, which can also cause fires.
To ensure safety and prevent potential hazards, it is best to plug high-powered appliances like microwaves and fridges directly into a wall outlet that is rated to handle their electrical requirements. If the outlets are far from the appliances, consider having additional wall outlets installed by a licensed electrician to avoid using extension cords. If using an extension cord is unavoidable, make sure it is a heavy-duty extension cord rated for the power requirements of the appliances and is not longer than necessary.
Remember, electrical safety is crucial, and it is always better to prioritize safety over convenience when dealing with high-powered appliances.