It doesn’t seem to matter where you live, there’s never enough power sockets in a home. Some could be occupied, or some too far from your comfortable couch.
There’s never enough! Luckily the concept of power cords has made things way simpler than before. That’s possibly the reason why they are so popular. Don’t know what power cords are? Let us brief you up!
A power cord or power strip is a series of electrical sockets with a cable and a plug at the end. They are used to power multiple small devices at the same time.
They’re equipped with a circuit breaker as a precautionary measure, to keep it safe from power surges. If you own one, you would agree with how convenient it is.
But like every electrical appliance, you should know how to use these multi-outlet power strips correctly and safely. This article explains small steps you can take to ensure you’re not going wrong in any way with your strips.
Read along to know more!
Tips On Using A Power Cord Correctly & Safely
Minimal Electrical Load
Power strips are primarily used for multiple small appliances or electrical loads like your lamps or phone and laptop chargers.
The main objective of power strips is to split your outlet. Therefore if you try to plug in multiple large appliances like refrigerators or microwaves, it could lead you to a troublesome situation.
You can always consider upgrading to surge protectors. They are a bit different, but their job is precisely similar. Surge protectors are equipped with an extra layer of protection to keep your appliances safe in times of power surges.
Get The Right Kind
Make sure you buy the right kind of Power strip. It should have enough plugs, as per your requirements. Remember to check the voltage rating before buying. Going over the limit provided can be harmful.
It’s necessary to make sure that it can easily handle the wattage you’ll plug into it. You can choose from industrial, office, or hospital strips.
Make the right choice according to your outlet needs! It’s wise to check every detail before being the strip, make sure the voltage sits as per your requirements.
Overusing
Power strips aren’t a substitute for electrical outlets. They are not made for prolonged use, as they lack the longevity and stability your outlets provide.
Do not keep using them for long intervals! Extended use for over weeks could end up damaging the strip, as well as your appliances attached to it.
If you end up using it your power strips way too frequently, you can try opting for a different way. Consider calling in professionals and installing more outlets in your house.
That would be a better long term solution to your problems! Careful with what you plugin! Remember that large appliances like these should not be plugged into a power strip.
Avoid Chaining
It’s not mainly a wise decision to connect multiple power strips in a series together. Plugging in power strips into other strips may sound like a creative hack, but it’s not. You should avoid creating a chain of strips.
This mistake could end up costing you a lot of money. There’s a chance of a blowout or an electrical fire. It could not only end up damaging all your appliances but also put your house at risk.
You don’t have to waste a lot of bucks in damages when you could just avoid this newbie mistake.
Don’t Cover Up
Covering a power strip could open new doors for you, doors of extreme risk. While a power strip is covered, it can simultaneously trap and generate heat.
It could leave you susceptible to a potential fire. Therefore it’s advisable to avoid covering your power strip with any cloth, blanket, or any rug. Give them space and enough breathing room! You can always find other creative ways to hide them.
Conclusion
Power strips are simple, handy, and needed in almost every household. If you keep these points in mind while using them, you will face no significant issues.
Be careful while using electrical appliances; a small mistake could end up being harmful. Remember, small precautionary steps go a long way.
Stay safe!
