Why shouldn’t you plug an extension cord into another?
Plugging one extension cord into another, also known as “daisy-chaining,” can be a dangerous practice that should be avoided. While it may seem convenient to extend the length of an extension cord in this way, it can lead to serious safety hazards, particularly the risk of overheating and fire.
One of the main issues with daisy-chaining extension cords is the potential for overloading the cords. Each extension cord is designed to handle a specific amount of electrical current, which is measured in amps. By connecting multiple cords together, you are essentially increasing the electrical load that the cords need to carry. This can result in the cords becoming overloaded, which can cause them to overheat.
Overheating is a serious concern because it can lead to the insulation on the cords melting or catching fire. Extension cords are typically insulated to protect against electrical shocks and to prevent the wires inside from coming into contact with flammable materials. However, when the cords are overloaded and overheat, the insulation can become compromised, increasing the risk of fire.
To put it into perspective, imagine a scenario where you have a single extension cord plugged into a wall outlet. This cord is rated to handle a certain amount of electrical current safely. If you then plug another extension cord into the first one, you are essentially doubling the electrical load that the first cord needs to handle. This can push the cord beyond its safe operating limits, leading to overheating and the potential for a fire to ignite.
It is worth noting that extension cords come in different sizes and ratings, which indicate their capacity to handle electrical current. Using a thicker and higher-rated cord can help reduce the risk of overheating when you need to extend the length of a cord. However, even with a higher-rated cord, daisy-chaining should still be avoided as it can still increase the overall electrical load beyond what the cords are designed for.
In addition to the risk of overheating and fire, daisy-chaining extension cords can also lead to a mess of tangled cords and potentially create tripping hazards. This is particularly true if the cords are running across walkways or in areas where people may not notice them.
To avoid the need for daisy-chaining extension cords, it is best to use a single cord that is long enough to reach your desired location. If you find that you frequently need longer cords, it may be worth investing in a longer extension cord or exploring alternative solutions, such as relocating the power source or using multiple outlets.
Plugging extension cords together, or daisy-chaining, should be avoided to prevent the risk of overheating and fire hazards. Overloading the cords by increasing the electrical load can lead to overheating, melting insulation, and potentially igniting a fire. It is always safer to use a single, properly rated extension cord or explore alternative solutions to meet your power needs.