How many times have you used extension cords in your home or workplace? They're undoubtedly useful when you need to plug in several appliances or electronic devices that are far away from a power source. They can even help you do outdoor projects or enjoy indoor activities that wouldn't be possible otherwise. But have you ever thought about what these cords are designed for? Are they meant to be temporary solutions or something that you can rely on for a long time?
Temporary Not Permanent
Extension cords are definitely not designed to be permanent solutions. They're meant to be used temporarily to connect power to nearby devices. The long, thin cords used in most extension cords pose a hazard when used improperly. Overuse or prolonged use of an extension cord can result in overloaded circuits, overheating and fires.
Understanding the Risk
When you use an extension cord as a permanent solution, you increase the risk of electrical hazards. Extension cords are not as durable as the wiring in your walls and floorboards and will degrade over time with frequent use. In addition, the extension cords are often concealed under carpets or rugs, making it extremely difficult to detect electrical hazards. Faulty cords can lead to electrical shocks, electrocution or even fires that can cause damage to your property and endanger your life.
Additional Issues
The overuse of extension cords can also lead to excessive power draws. This can cause short circuits or cut-offs, which can damage electronic devices and appliances. If you're using extension cords to connect several devices, ensure you use different cords on separate outlets and avoid using them to connect high-load appliances like air conditioners, refrigerators or microwaves.
Another safety hazard of relying too much on extension cords is the risk of tripping and falling. It's easy to trip over a cord because it's often in the way and not secured to the ground. This can lead to injuries that can be anything from mild to severe.
What You Should Do
In conclusion, extension cords should not be relied on as a permanent solution but rather as a temporary one. Overloading circuits, short circuits, tripping hazards and the risk of electrocution and fire are significant concerns that arise when using extension cords improperly. Therefore, it's important to use common sense when using extension cords and avoid plugging in high-load appliances or overloading circuits.
You should also get in touch with an electrician and ask them for their advice. If you simply cannot avoid the excessive use of extension cords, you may need to get additional power outlets and even a brand-new circuit installed as the safer option.
Share19 July 2023
Welcome to my blog. My name is Mia. A few years ago, my partner and I bought an old home. It needed to have all new wiring installed, and through that process of working closely with a fabulous electrician, I learned a lot. I learned everything, from which questions to ask, to how to do a bit of wiring on my own. If you are hiring an electrician, you need to explore my posts. I hope they help guide you in the right direction. Now, that our home is finally, for the first time, not in the midst of a repair or project, I decided to start this blog. In addition, I also like to fish and read.