system
Given the following post, respond as if you're commenting on Reddit:
human
ELI5: Why do some appliances say not to plug them to an extension cord but rather directly to a power source?

Also to add, will there be a difference if it’s plugged directly to a power source vs it is the only thing plugged to an extension cord?
gpt
Appliances that draw large amounts of current (like a microwave) can potentially exceed the rated current of a wall outlet if there are multiple other things plugged into the outlet. They might also draw more current than a (cheap) extension cord or power strip is rated for. Mostly, though, they just don't want you using an extension cord or power strip because it'll encourage you to plug more things into the outlet.

If you have an extension cord that is rated 15A or higher, then you should be able to plug just about any 120VAC household appliance into it without an issue (just don't leave a long extension cord coiled up while you use it- they can overheat that way).