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Dorm Appliance Rules: What to Check Before You Buy

Dorm Living

Dorm Appliance Rules: What to Check Before You Buy

Residence halls set their own rules for heat, power, cooking, extension cords, and window equipment.

Use the rule for the assigned building

Search the university housing site for prohibited items, approved appliances, fire safety, and electrical rules. Policies can differ between residence halls, suites, and university apartments.

Check the exact product

  • Whether it has an exposed heating element
  • The wattage and plug requirements
  • Whether it needs a window, drain, or permanent installation
  • How much clearance the manufacturer requires
  • Whether cooking is limited to a shared kitchen

Keep the receipt until move-in

If a policy is unclear, ask housing before opening the box. A good return window is more useful than trying to persuade a resident assistant that a prohibited appliance should be an exception.

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