Dangers of Overusing Extension Cords and Power Strips

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We all rely on extension cords and power strips to reach that extra outlet or power multiple devices. While convenient, improper use can create serious electrical hazards.

Overusing extension cords can lead to serious risks, from overloads and overheating to potential fire hazards. Here’s everything homeowners need to know about the safe use, and why hiring a licenced electrician might be the best way to ensure a safe and well-equipped home.

Why Extension Cords and Power Strips Are Not a Long-Term Solution

Extension cords are generally designed for temporary use. Over time, reliance on them can lead to wear and tear, making them unsafe for continuous power needs. Similarly, while power strips offer multiple outlets, they're also susceptible to overloading if too many high-power devices are connected.

For homeowners frequently relying on these setups, it’s best to consider a more permanent solution. This is where an electrician can help by installing additional outlets, reducing the need for extension cords and power strips and ensuring a safer, more efficient power distribution system.

Dangers of Overloading: What You Should Know

Overloading occurs when more electrical current is drawn than the equipment is rated to handle. This can lead to:

• Overheating: Continuous use of high-power devices, like space heaters, can cause extension cords to overheat, potentially melting insulation and causing fires.
• Circuit Overloads: Extension cords are connected to your home’s electrical circuit, which typically handles around 15-20 amps. When the circuit is overloaded, it can cause circuit breakers to trip or, worse, lead to wiring damage within the walls.

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Identifying High-Risk Devices

Not all devices are equally demanding on power. Understanding which appliances can lead to overloading is key to safer extension cord and power strip use. High-power devices such as:

• Space heaters
• Hair dryers
• Irons
• Electric kettles

These devices draw significant power and should always be plugged directly into a wall outlet. Low-power electronics like TVs, gaming consoles, or phone chargers generally present less risk, but it’s still wise to avoid connecting too many at once on a single strip.

Coiled Cords: Avoiding Overheating Risks

It’s common to see extension cords coiled or wrapped up for storage, but a coiled cord can heat up more quickly when in use. This phenomenon, known as eddy currents, can lead to dangerous overheating.

Tip: If using a longer cord, keep it untangled and laid out straight. In cases where it must be coiled, try the "figure eight" method, which reduces the risks of excessive heat buildup.

The Pitfalls of Daisy-Chaining Power Strips

"Daisy-chaining" is when multiple power strips or extension cords are connected to one another. While this might seem like an easy way to increase available outlets, it significantly increases the risk of overloading circuits. Daisy-chaining can cause:

• Increased Resistance: Each connection adds resistance to the circuit, creating more heat.
• Higher Chance of Faults: If one device overloads, it can affect all the connected cords and strips, increasing the risk of circuit trips or even fire hazards.

Installing additional wall sockets is often a safer, more effective option, and an electrician can install these efficiently and professionally, reducing your reliance on potentially hazardous setups.

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Tips for Safe Extension Cord and Power Strip Use

• Use Appropriate Gauge Extension Cords: Extension cords come in various gauges. Thicker cords (lower gauge numbers) are better for high-power appliances.
• Check Amperage Ratings: Each extension cord or power strip has an amperage rating. Ensure it aligns with the demands of the connected devices.
• Inspect Regularly: Regularly check cords for signs of wear, fraying, or exposed wires. Damaged cords should be replaced immediately, as they’re more likely to short or spark.
• Unplug Unused Devices: Devices left plugged in, even when off, can still draw small amounts of power and increase wear on your extension cord or power strip over time. Unplug when not in use to extend the life of both devices and cords.
• Look for Thermal Cut-Outs: Choose power strips with built-in thermal cut-outs, which shut off the strip if it overheats.

When to Call an Electrician

Persistent tripping of circuit breakers, visible damage on extension cords, or a heavy reliance on power strips are clear signals that an upgrade to your home’s electrical system might be in order. 

A licenced electrician can assess your home’s power needs, ensure proper load distribution, and suggest improvements such as dedicated circuits for heavy-use areas like kitchens or home offices.

Extension cords and power strips are handy but come with clear limitations. Overloading or improper use can lead to significant safety risks, from short circuits to house fires. For a safer home environment, limit reliance on these temporary solutions, and invest in permanent upgrades when possible.

Electrical safety is no small matter. Don't risk your home and family's well-being – make informed choices and get help from qualified electricians on ServiceSeeking.com.au.