Why is daisy chaining extension cords dangerous • All surge protectors or power strips need to be UL (Underwriters Laboratory) or ETL (Electrical Testing Laboratories) approved. The Dangers Of Daisy Chaining. Leave a Reply Cancel reply. To avoid this, use power strips with built-in surge protectors or extension cords designed for a single device. Do you mind explaining why? I mean, assuming that all plugged-in devices have pretty low amperage, I don't understand the risk of daisy-chaining surge protectors. No Under-Carpet Runs: Aug 12, 2021 · \$\begingroup\$ The problem with allowing this is, in the winter you'll get cold, and (you or someone else) will attempt to plug a heater into that double-extension cord. It increases the number of connections, but that's a miniscule risk compared to the 5+ connections an extension cord might have on its own. The reason is because it makes it very easy to overload a circuit. Oct 11, 2023 · Why Is It Bad to Daisy Chain Extension Cords? It’s unsafe to daisy chain multiple extension cords together because they may not all have the same current capacity or voltage requirements. Extension cords or surge protected power strips are often interconnected, or “daisy chained,” to readily provide more outlets and/or to reach greater distances. 7 %µµµµ 1 0 obj >/Metadata 207 0 R/ViewerPreferences 208 0 R>> endobj 2 0 obj > endobj 3 0 obj >/ExtGState >/Font >/ProcSet[/PDF/Text/ImageB/ImageC/ImageI May 31, 2016 · The idea of daisy-chaining directly violates one of the required markings on such cords, that is required to state, “Do not plug one extension cord into another. Additionally, you shouldn't daisy chain them with extension cords, either, because that is also a risk. They almost never have overcurrent protection and are always 16 or 18 gauge wire, so they seem much more dangerous to me than power strips. Sep 29, 2022 · When it comes to connecting multiple outdoor extension cords together, it’s wise to lean on the side of caution and NOT do it. uk a few “Do’s” and “Don’ts” of daisy chaining, you can help prevent many unnecessary injuries and deaths. It’s a practice that significantly elevates the risk of fire. Feb 2, 2021 · The above are four conditions that need to be met when daisy-chaining power strips, extension cords, and surge protectors at home. The cable of the extension cord should be specified in a way that it can stand the current of around 16 A. However in summary there are two issues: 1 – Combining multiple extension cables and multi Mar 12, 2024 · Don’ts of Using Extension Cords Avoid Daisy Chaining: Linking multiple extension cords together, a practice known as daisy chaining can lead to an excessive load on the cords, increased resistance, and potentially overheating. Nov 19, 2018 · Thanks for a great article on daisy chaining extension cords. It has to be highlighted that the initial extension lead is plugged into a wall socket that is rated at a maximum of 13 amps or 3kW. In many cases, a power strip energized by an . One electric fire, or a kettle would pull much more current than this lot combined. Nov 15, 2020 · In Germany the electrical power is at 230 V, and fuses have current ratings of 10 A or 16 A. compliance. power strip. This practice is particularly dangerous because it increases the load on the first cord in the chain, which may not be able to handle the combined power requirements of all the connected devices, leading to overloading. g. Another reason people will daisy chain is to extend the reach of the electricity. Poor Storage Sep 15, 2020 · Electricians don’t like extension cords or power strips, and they hate daisy chains even more. These included: Oct 29, 2024 · The interconnected setup increases electrical resistance, generating excess heat. Jul 16, 2007 · Daisy chaining increases the likelihood of misuse, excessive voltage drop and overloading the extension cord and may create a fire or shock hazard, therefore, UL 817 requires that cord sets be provided with a tag label that identifies the dos and don’ts of using an extension cord to avoid dangerous hazards. Jan 24, 2024 · Can You Plug An Extension Cord Into Another? It may be tempting to just string them together, but resist the temptation. Extension cords or surge protected power strips are often interconnected, or “daisy chained,” to readily provide more outlets and/or to reach greater distances. This practice significantly increases the risk of electrical fires by creating resistance points at each connection. Be Safe Steve. Although the name is pleasant, daisy- chaining is quite dangerous and should be avoided. Connecting two or more extension leads together (sometimes known as ‘daisy-chaining) is unsafe for several reasons. Alternatives to Daisy Chaining . The wires can cause a trip hazard; The extension leads can be left coiled up and get hot, increasing the chance of fire Feb 11, 2025 · "To safely use extension cords," Mock said, "avoid overloading them with high-wattage devices, running them under rugs or furniture, or daisy-chaining multiple cords together, as these can cause overheating and fire hazards. But assuming you don't have a choice, is there anything that can be done to make the whole thing safer? power-supply Dec 21, 2023 · Why is daisy chaining extension cords dangerous? Daisy chaining extension cords is dangerous due to the risk of overloading, voltage drop, and fire hazards. Extending the length of an extension cord by “daisy-chaining” can lead to overheating the cord by overloading it, creating a serious fire hazard. the above metaphors may or may not apply in britain. Essentially, the term refers to the practice of plugging a multiway extension/adapter into a mains power socket and when you run out of sockets, plugging a second multiway extension into one of the Jun 3, 2024 · 1. This largely depends on the load and the placement of the connectors and the cords. It seems daisy chaining extension cords is generally not recommended. See full list on intersafe. Oct 9, 2017 · Consideration needs to be given to the type of extension cord as well. ' While safety comes first, energy efficiency is also vital for managing household bills and reducing environmental impact. Why is daisy-chaining dangerous? Ashley Boyce, our in-house appliance safety testing expert, explains this in more detail in a previous article. This dramatically increases the risks of socket overload and electric shock, and can also place excessive Jul 29, 2023 · But how long can this method work? Daisy-chaining is not a viable solution for many reasons. This heat buildup becomes particularly dangerous when the strips are hidden under furniture or carpets. The Office of Compliance gave several safe solutions in place of daisy chaining power strips and extension cords tend to become permanent wiring and a fire hazard. Extension cords created so many fires that arc fault breakers were created. Extension cords are only for temporary service. the “don’t daisy chain power strips” thing was mostly an american problem, because over here basic safety features like fuses are generally considered to be a socialist plot to make our kids gay or something. Daisy-chaining multiple outdoor extension cords is a serious risk for an electrical fire. But you shouldn’t make it a habit. It can also bypass the built-in safety features that protect against electrical overload. Today, you can buy high-end power strips that support a half dozen or more devices at once and include surge protection circuits so you can’t overload them even if you try. The only reason they say it's dangerous to daisy chain is they assume everyone is an idiot and can't work out how close to 13 Amps they are. portable heaters, kettles, microwaves, etc. This refers to interconnecting multiple power strips and/or extension cords. Light-duty cords should not be used for supplying power to a number of items at once—especially those which are considered high energy. It is also a violation of the NEC to "daisy chain" extension cords or more generally power taps. One of the main issues with daisy-chaining DON'T plug extensions cords together. So basically my question is about: Outlet>Surge Protector>3 outlet grounded adaptor> grounded extension cord> ungrounded extension cord>ikea led light. There are a lot of options in power strips including ones with extra long cords or extra long receptacle bar (don't know what else to call it). Actually there will be almost zero inductance as the live and neutral currents are in opposite directions and cancel out. This refers to power strips and/or extension leads being plugged into other power strips and/or extension leads to allow you to plug more appliances into the wall socket. Do’s • Use longer extension cords to replace multiple extension cords/power strips. . You can do it every so often to charge a phone or to operate a heavier device. Applies to outlet/power strips as well. In some jurisdictions, only 30 days. . Why can’t you plug an extension cord into another? Once you Extending the length of an extension cord by “daisy-chaining” can lead to overheating the cord by overloading it, creating a serious fire hazard. Overloading extension cords, whether through daisy chaining or connecting devices that exceed the cord’s capacity, can lead to overheating, voltage drops, and electrical fires. one extension lead into another, so called ‘daisy chaining’. Daisy chain: Connecting multiple extension leads is a risky venture; if a longer cord is needed, choose one that meets the required length. The daisy-chaining should be temporary. It is fine if you extend the length of your surge protector to a far-flung wall outlet for occasional usage. The bigger problem is probably those lamp extension cords with 3 plugs on them. Why is daisy-chaining dangerous? Daisy-chaining can overload your electrical system, causing blown fuses and • Only use properly rated rated extension cords for the job. DO… Keep your extension lead safe and switched off at the socket when not in use – Make sure to switch off, unplug and store your extension cord in a safe place. It certainly isn't good practice to daisy chain them. Jul 28, 2015 · I don't know the exact reason why daisy-chained power strips/extension cords is against fire codes, but it is. Oct 24, 2024 · Daisy-chaining" occurs when multiple extension cords or power strips are connected together in a series. Jun 25, 2023 · Daisy chaining power strips can be dangerous and increase the risk of overloading the circuit. Even if you’re using high-quality power strips, daisy chaining negates their built-in safety features. That increases the risk of an electric shock or extension cord fire hazard. In respect to this, why should you not plug one extension cord into another? Using extension cords properly is critical to your safety. The Office of Compliance gave several safe solutions in place of daisy chaining power strips and extension cords. Comment Comment. Do’s • Use longer extension cords to replace multiple extension cords/power edit: just saw that the plugs in your picture appear to be british style. Second, daisy chaining surge protectors is dangerous because it's easy to overload if you don't do the math properly. it Feb 21, 2025 · Avoid daisy-chaining extension cords Even though too-long cords are a no-no, if you do need to bring power to far-flung places, avoid daisy-chaining multiple cords together. Also, daisy-chaining is unideal. " And all these risks are exacerbated by using extension cords as anything other than a temporary measure. The practice increases electrical resistance, leading to inadequate voltage for devices and potential damage. e. My suspicion is that it has to do with inductive resistance. It is bad practice to do this and should be avoided as this presents a serious risk that the wall socket could be overloaded. 14 AWG can handle up to 15 for short run, 10–12 for long cord). Temporary Basis Only. Daisy chaining accounts for a number of OSHA violations, but more importantly, they contribute to a large number of electrical fires. Feb 11, 2025 · "To safely use extension cords," Mock said, "avoid overloading them with high-wattage devices, running them under rugs or furniture, or daisy-chaining multiple cords together, as these can cause overheating and fire hazards. On many power strips I've seen that they have a maximum rating of 3500 W. Improper Storage: Coiling cords too tightly or storing them in damp or hot areas can damage the insulation and internal wiring, increasing the risk of fire or shock when used again. This practice is called "daisy chaining" or "piggy backing" and can lead to serious problems. Daisy-Chaining. It is important to note that a daisy chain connection from one extension cord to another should not be permanent. First off, daisy chaining surge protectors is a violation of OSHA regulations and the National Electric Code. Connecting multiple extension cords together or daisy chaining can cause voltage drops and overheating and is a serious fire and electrocution risk. The UL or ETL label must never be removed from the unit. Jan 11, 2024 · By understanding the proper uses and limitations of power strips, you can stay safe from potential electrical hazards caused by their misuse. 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. And getting the math wrong in eletrical work is dangerous. By learning a few “Do’s” and “Don’ts” of daisy chaining, you can help prevent many unnecessary injuries and deaths. This method is also referred to as “daisy-chaining”. Daisy chaining extension cords together can cause internal heating of cords, damage the insulation, and could damage Yes, there is a risk of failure involved with anything electrical, but I don't see why anyone would consider chaining extension cords inherently dangerous enough to ban. Dec 24, 2024 · So, while surge protectors are essential for safeguarding your devices, using them incorrectly—like daisy chaining—can put your electronics and safety at risk. During the biennial inspection conducted during the 109th Congress, more than 2,400 instances of daisy chains and mixed Feb 6, 2025 · Why daisy chaining extension cords creates serious risks. Apr 29, 2025 · 'You should never "daisy-chain" extension leads together. Is this dangerous or a fire hazard? the extension cords + surge protector were all purchased from staples. Safe Use and Repair All employees who use, see, or are in the proximity of extension cords must be trained on extension cord safety—and electrical safety in gen-eral. Why is daisy chaining dangerous? In the world of electronics, unfortunately daisy chaining isn’t nearly as innocent as its name might suggest. The "it's dangerous to daisy chain" thing is a myth, it's perfectly safe so long as the total current draw is less than 13A. Oct 16, 2018 · What is daisy chaining? Daisy chaining is the process of combining multiple extension leads or power leads. Feb 28, 2022 · Why Daisy Chaining Is Dangerous Power strips and extension cords are great tools for getting the most out of our electrical outlets. • If possible, rearrange desks, workstations and equipment to an area with a power outlet. Plugging one extension cord into another, also known as “daisy-chaining,” can be a dangerous practice that should be avoided. Don’t daisy chain your power strips permanently. • Check the condition of extension cords and extension cords Daisy Chaining Found Frequently Daisy chains and mixed daisy chains constitute some of the most common violations identified during recent Office of Compliance health and safety inspections. gov Now if you tried to plug multiple computers, or even worse multiple space heaters into a daisy-chained extension cord, you could easily draw more power than the circuit can provide, because something like a space heater takes way more power than charging a device, and the extension cord has no circuitry at all to manage how much power is going Figure 1. Conclusion %PDF-1. www. Figure 2: Mixed daisy chain— Powerstrip energized by an extension cord Figure 1: Daisy Chain—Interconnected extension cords. Be aware of the following dangerous or improper conditions: Daisy-Chaining . Jul 4, 2023 · Daisy-Chaining: Connecting multiple extension cords can cause overheating, especially if the total length exceeds the cords’ capacity, increasing the fire risk. Another common solution that is often used is to create a “mixed daisy chain,” by interconnecting several extension cords and surge protectors or power strips in a series. If you use more than one extension lead per socket it will significantly raise the risk of overloading the socket. Overloading electrical circuits is one of the biggest dangers when you daisy chain surge protectors. Multiple connections may travel through the same wiring, creating an overload. Daisy chaining is also a fire code violation - in so many venues. There's a reason some devices have very short cords (coffee maker, dryer, deep fryer) - a long cord would introduce too much electrical loss, and loss always equal A long-standing safety concern of Electrical Safety First is the practice of “daisy chaining”, whereby short extension leads are plugged into one another in order to increase the access range from the wall socket. Another common solution that is often used is to create a “mixed daisy chain,” by interconnecting several extension cords and surge protectors or power strips in series. I know Led's don't use much power, but I am concerned about the daisy chaining. This means that there is a great risk that one of the cords may be overloaded or overheat due to the higher resistance and load of the electricity. No – you should never run two extension cords together. Jul 21, 2019 · These devices are only approved to provide power to a specific number of electrical appliances, and daisy chaining them increases that number and creates a potential fire risk. So, there are solutions out there that would satisfy your local fire code. So if you're daisy chaining a lot of stuff off of extension cords and power strips and you have a cheap 18 gauge cord with no fuse in it somewhere along that, it's going to catch fire before the circuit breaker flips. Solutions Several safe solutions exist. Remember that the contacts can be loose as you plug and unplug them. Daisy chaining, or connecting multiple extension cords together, is perhaps the most dangerous yet prevalent mistake homeowners make. Get one that is the correct length you need. As a result, extension leads should not be overloaded with high current appliances . Avoid daisy-chaining whenever possible. The term you are looking for is "impedance" for AC resistance. Source: Why is it dangerous use a coiled extension cord. ” By doing so, one directly violates this instruction, and this fact has been proven on many OSHA inspections, resulting in direct citations. When using multiple extension cords, there are two fallacies that I can see: Feb 26, 2024 · Some examples include plugging multiple extension cords into each other or plugging an extension cord into a power strip instead of a wall socket. The gauge of the cords should take into account the length of the run and the load to determine if they're safe for that application. Oct 5, 2020 · This is even more compounded if you use use an extension cord that is not rated high enough (12AWG is good for anything you would plug into a normal wall socket. If you chain a bunch of power strips together to give yourself unlimited outlets in a room, you can easily plug in more power than the wiring and/or the circuit was made to handle. Alternatives to Daisy Chaining. Aug 27, 2024 · Plugging one extension cord into another, also known as daisy chaining, can introduce potential dangers and should be avoided whenever possible. But a lot of extension cords are 16 gauge or 18 gauge, meaning that they can handle a lot less. Risks of Daisy Chaining Surge Protectors Overloading and Electrical Hazards. Unfortunately, a lot of people don’t realize that daisy-chaining surge protectors is a bad thing to do. As the power strip is intended for its own 6 feet of reach, the conductors are not suitable for 10~15A over the longer distance of 3 or 4 power strips of length. It may be tempting to just string them together, but resist the temptation. Overloading (typically) is not the threat. They must know the correct way to use extension cords and how to recognize an unsafe cord or cord setup. co. The more time you spend daisy-chaining, the greater the chances that something will go wrong. Instead of daisy chaining for length, buy a thicker gauge extension cord to fit a power strip to. mldeg evh msofqx vtrz sfgokrl zzesb lklw kgnwg svgr jdpled gpgd ejwuy yhywj nwr pqznc