Power strips are essential tools that we might use in our daily lives. In most cases, we use them for running multiple electronics such as computers, phone chargers, and fans.
However, as power strips generally come at short lengths, many people wonder, “can you plug an extension cord into a power strip” to extend its range? Even though you can use this electrical setup, it’s important to understand the risks associated with this practice.
Plugging extension cords into power strips can lead to electrocution, posing significant hazards to your safety and property.
In this article, I will give you a deep understanding of why you should avoid daisy chaining and knowledge to keep yourself safe from electrical hazards.
Table of Contents
Why You Shouldn’t Plug An Extension Cord Into A Power Strip
Safety issues are the main reason you should not use an extension cord with a power strip. Both power strips and extension cords have limitations on the rating they can safely handle. When plugged together, they can easily become overloaded, leading to severe electrical problems.
The image below is an example of an overloaded electrical connection. It clearly shows the danger it can bring to your home.
Moreover, a long extension cord on its own already increases the resistance in the connection, resulting in a voltage drop. Suppose you plug a power strip into an extension cord, this problem is compounded, potentially causing damage to your electronic devices and creating a fire hazard.
Connecting an extension cord and power strip to one outlet may also be prohibited by law. OSHA regulations outlaw this practice in workplaces to prevent serious electrical hazards to workers and properties.
What Happens If I Plug An Extension Cord Into A Power Strip
When you connect a power strip to an extension cord, the following risks may occur.
First, overloading is one of the most common problems in a daisy chain electrical connection. Since both cords have their own limitations and may contain cheap wiring, connecting them might lead to an excess of devices being plugged in, which can also result in fires or electric shock.
Furthermore, the daisy chaining of power strips and extension cords may damage the connected electronics. Due to an unstable power supply caused by voltage drops, the electronics may melt or malfunction.
Lastly, if you are an employer who violates a law regarding safety standards such as OSHA, you can get a fine. This fine may vary depending on the severity of the violation and how many times you re-offend.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Happens if You Plug an Extension Cord into Another Extension Cord?
An extension cord plugged into extension cord may become overheated, overloaded, experience an increase in resistance, and potentially cause a fire.
What is the Main Difference Between Power Strip Vs Extension Cord?
There are many differences between an extension cord and a power strip. Some of them are the current rating they can hold and their usual length. However, the main difference between these two is their purpose.
A power strip connects multiple low-powered devices, while an extension cord connects to a device to use it in an area without nearby outlets.
Conclusion
It is essential to understand the limitation of the power strip and extension cord to ensure the safety of their electrical connections. Following the manufacturer’s instructions, you can reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.
Answering can you plug an extension cord into a power strip will give you knowledge about the danger of this electrical connection. As an alternative, you might consider installing multiple outlets in your home for a more permanent and secure solution.
Furthermore, please take a look at this article for replacing an extension cord plug and if you wanna know why a microwave shouldn’t plugin into a power strip, check out here!
I am Edwin Jones, in charge of designing content for Galvinpower. I aspire to use my experiences in marketing to create reliable and necessary information to help our readers. It has been fun to work with Andrew and apply his incredible knowledge to our content.