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—Safety and decisions

Using extension leads and adaptors safely

Extension leads are useful and widely misused. A few rules prevent overheating and fires.

Every extension lead has a maximum load. Plugging several high-power appliances into one — a kettle, a microwave and a heater, say — can exceed it and overheat the lead or the socket. Plugging leads into leads (daisy-chaining) multiplies the problem. Cable reels used while still coiled can overheat because the cable cannot shed heat.

Safety and decision guides are advice for the reader. They describe practice, not a service level.

Damaged leads, cracked plugs and leads run under rugs or through doors are additional hazards. For permanent needs, fixed sockets are safer than leads.

01In short

The points that matter most

  • Respect the rating

    Add up the appliances’ loads.

  • No daisy-chaining

    Leads into leads overload sockets.

  • Uncoil reels

    Coiled cable overheats under load.

02Detail

Common mistakes

  • High-power appliances on leads

    Heaters, kettles and irons should go into wall sockets.

  • Leads under rugs

    Damage goes unseen and heat cannot escape.

  • Cheap adaptors

    Poor-quality adaptors can overheat.

  • Permanent use

    Leads become permanent fixtures.

  • Travel adaptors

    Plug adaptors brought from abroad vary widely in quality and fit; a loose fit in the socket can overheat.

03Checklist

Check your leads

  • Feel for warmth

    Warm leads or plugs are a warning.

  • Look for damage

    Cracks, cuts or loose plugs.

  • Count adaptors

    Remove stacked adaptors.

04Questions

Questions people ask

Are surge-protected leads safer?
They protect electronics from surges but have the same load limits.
Can extension leads be used outdoors?
Only leads designed for outdoor use, with RCD protection.
How do I know the rating?
It is printed on the lead or plug.
What if I need leads everywhere?
It may be time to add sockets.
Why does my adaptor feel hot?
It may be overloaded, poorly made or loose in the socket. Stop using it.

05Related

Related guides

This guide sits under electrical work. All topics are on the guides page.

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