Don’t have sufficient power outlets in your home? Stop relying on extension cords.

29Jul
by Saalik Ahamed  
0

It’s frustrating when you don’t have sufficient power outlets in your home. You would have to use extension cords and multi-plugs to get the job done.

Remember the last time you had to run around the house to find an extension cord? If this happens too often, you should not rely too much on the extension cords. If there are insufficient power outlets in your home, take steps to install new power outlets.

This article will explain why you shouldn’t rely too much on extension cords and why you should increase power outlets instead.

Why shouldn’t you rely too much on extension cords

If you use too many extension cords, it indicates fewer power outlets in your house. You should not substitute permanent wiring with the extension cords. These cords should only be used to get power to a location without a nearby power outlet and not as an alternative to multiple power outlets.

plugging in to an extension cord - mrelectric

Extension cords can cause life-threatening hazards to you and your loved ones. Here are some other reasons why you shouldn’t rely too much on extension cords.

Not made for continuous use.

If you are planning to use an extension code instead of increasing the outlets, then you must be expecting to use it continuously. However, don’t rely on the extension cords to work continuously. They should be unplugged once used. Continuous use can deteriorate the condition of the code and cause it to burn out.

One of the major reasons for house fires

Did you know that extension cords have led to house fires? Yes, if the cord has faulty wiring or if you use it continuously, it can lead to house fires. Therefore you should be extra vigilant to not to leave any switched-on extension cords unattended.

Not safe to connect multiple devices

Extension codes can only supply a limited amount of power compared to a direct power outlet. If you plug in multiple devices than the cord can handle, it will burn out, leading to a fire. It is safe to plug only a single piece of equipment at once, and you should not plug in high energy-consuming devices.

As a rule of thumb, heat-generating appliances such as irons, dryers, microwaves, etc., require high energy. Therefore make sure not to plug them into an extension cord, not even a single unit at a time.

Low-quality units in the market

Every extension code in the market is not up to the safety standards. These low-quality cords are more likely to cause life-threatening hazards. Therefore watch out whether the cords are made according to the standards and tested adequately.

Could affect your electricity bills

When you use an extension cord, you are more likely to leave it on standby. Did you know that leaving an extension code on standby mode can keep your electricity meter running? Therefore if you are using more extension cords in your house, your electricity bills could be relatively higher.

Electric meter - mr electric

When should you use extension codes?

That being said, you should not completely stay away from the extension cords. They are not your enemy; these cords can be helpful if you use them wisely.

  • Use the extension cords to connect low-power consuming devices such as computers, mobile phone chargers, television, etc.
  • Extension codes should only be used to get power to locations where you cannot install a power outlet.
  • Use three-prong extension cords for extra safety. Never try to use a three-prong plug on a power outlet with two slots.

Can you get more power outlets installed

If you don’t have sufficient power outlets in your home, you should probably install more power outlets instead of relying on extension cords. However, there could be certain complications when installing new power outlets.

  • The appliances in your house are powered through a circuit system. These circuits are a combination of wires, appliances and a breaker switch. There is no harm in just adding a power outlet to a current circuit system.

    However, if you plug in a high energy-consuming appliance or an appliance that exceeds the capacity of the circuit, then it could overload the system. This could cause the breaker to switch off, disconnecting the power in that circuit system. If it is not switched off automatically, then it could cause a fire.
  • If you are installing a new power outlet, have a clear idea of which appliances you will plug in. If you are plugging in high energy-consuming appliances, you might have to install a new designated circuit. If this is the case, there should be space available in the switch panel to install the circuit.
  • Are there any power outlets nearby the place you want the new outlet? If there is an outlet, then you can simply install the new outlet as an extension from the existing outlet without tearing the wall. No messy patches and ugly holes. However, if there are no nearby outlets, then the situation could change.

We didn’t mention these complications to scare you away. When you see these, you might even think it is better to use an extension cord instead. However, that is not the case. These complications might not even arise at the hands of a skilled electrician. Therefore before making any rash decision consult a certified electrician to find the best solution for your situation.

Can you install power outlets by yourself?

It is technically illegal to install power outlets even in your own house if you don’t have the required licenses. If you don’t have the experience and skills, you could be putting yourself in harm’s way by trying to do electrical work by yourself.

installing power outlet - mr electric

Insurance policies do not cover unlicensed electrical work. Therefore it is ideal to hire a licensed electrician to install the power outlet. They would calculate the current loading of the circuit system and advise whether a new outlet is suitable for the existing circuit. They know the best way to install new outlets without damaging the walls in your lovely home.

If you are looking for an electrician in Geelong, don’t hesitate to contact Mr. Electric. We are highly trained electricians and have served the Geelong community for over three decades. We can provide the best solution for your situation. Contact us today to get your free in-home quote. If it matches your budget, then let’s get the job done with a workmanship warranty.