Extension cables, also known as extension leads, are incredibly useful for every home and business. They provide flexibility in power access when used with multiple electronic devices. With the help of extension cables, you can easily reach the power outlets and plug multiple devices kept at different places within the home.
Although extension cables are a temporary solution for delivering power, they pose potential risks if they are misused or overused continuously. However, they could be safely used with the right kind of cables. In this blog, we have discussed the selection of the right cables, safety hazards, and tips to prevent them.
How to Select the Right Extension Cable?
The following methods will help you easily understand which extension cable is suitable for your home and use it safely.
Don't Go Beyond the Cable Rating
Consider how much electricity (volts or amps) a cable can handle with respect to the devices being plugged into it. Additionally, some devices may use more watts or amps when turned on. Thus, ensure that the extension cable's rating exceeds the total watts.
Never Use the Wrong Gauge
Gauge refers to the thickness of the wire used in the cable. While a lower gauge number indicates a thicker wire that can carry more electricity, a higher gauge number indicates a thin wire that carries less electricity.
When the gauge number is high, and the wire is thin, the wire can get hot and lead to a fire. So, to prevent danger, select an extension cable that matches the gauge power requirement of your equipment.
Length
Length is an important factor to consider while selecting an extension cable. Longer cables provide convenience but simultaneously reduce power. This happens because longer cords create more resistance, lowering the voltage. This means your devices may not have the power they require to function properly.
Shorter cables can be a better option for powerful appliances and tools, as they will form less resistance. Ensure that you select the shortest cables according to your requirements.
Consider the Damages
Check the entire surface and structure of the cables for any damages, including cuts, cracks, or wires sticking out. If this is the case, do not use it, as defective cable may be dangerous and lead to electric shock or even fires. Additionally, check the plug and the socket to ensure they are in good condition. An extension cable should not be used even if it has small and insignificant signs of damage.
Safety Considerations
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Ensure that the cable is selected with proper insulation to prevent electric shocks.
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If your device has 3-3 prong plugs, make sure it has a grounding option.
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Verify that the cable can carry your devices' power load.
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It's advisable to select the cords approved by labels such as UL or ETL, among others.
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Lastly, do not use a cable that is old or frayed.
Safety Hazards to Consider
Using an extension lead at home and work is usually safe. However, to prevent the following risks, it must be used safely with any electrical device.
Fire - Extension cables pose a fire risk if they are used incorrectly. It may be damaged and cause potential shock and fire hazards. Additionally, overloading of power in an extension cable can also lead to a fire hazard.
Tripping risk - Extension cables can easily cause trip hazards if they are not handled properly. For instance, a tight, overstretched cable can be a serious hazard that may hurt people and animals and can even damage the cable or connected device. It can happen anywhere: at your home, workplace, or while working somewhere off-site.
Overload of power - Extension cables are used to add more power outlets than wall sockets, but it's essential not to overload them. Additionally, this doesn't mean that you can add further extensions or adapters to power more appliances.
If too many appliances are plugged into an extension cable, it can cause system overload resulting in power cut.
Tips to Prevent a Safety Hazard
Extension cable can cause fire if used improperly. Here are some tips that can prevent the safety hazards at your workplace or home.
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Never plug one extension cable into another.
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Ensure it is properly rated for its required use and meets the power needs of devices.
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Do not overload the extension cable.
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Examine extension cords for any damages like cracked sockets, loose wires, or loose connections before using them.
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Avoid running cables through walls, doorways, ceilings or floors. If wires are covered, heat gets trapped, which may cause a fire hazard.
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Never use three-prong plugs in outlets that only have two slots. Additionally, never cut off the ground pin to make it fit, as it can lead to electric shock.
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Do not substitute extension cables for permanent wiring.
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Never use extension cords to power a heater or fan. The cable will get overheated and cause a fire.
Conclusion
Extension cables are indeed helpful to power multiple devices. However, it will not provide the required power needed by the multiple devices at once. Therefore, ensure to buy the right cable that matches your devices' power needs. This will also avoid overloading and prevent the risk of fire. Additionally, check for proper insulation of the extension cable to avoid accidental damage.
