As an electrician, one of the most common issues I encounter is piggybacking powerboards, which is when multiple powerboards are connected together to increase the number of available sockets. While it may seem convenient, overloading powerboards can be extremely dangerous and present serious risks, including electrical faults and fire hazards.
In this article, we will help you understand how to assess your powerboard setup safely, calculate the maximum amount of power you can safely draw, and what to avoid to keep your home, business, and personal safety intact.
Why do we need more power outlets: the modern dilemma
In the modern world, most homes and businesses have an overwhelming number of electrical devices. The need for power has expanded rapidly from washing machines and televisions to phone chargers, laptops, and high-wattage appliances like heaters and kettles. However, many houses and offices were not built with enough standard outlets to support all these devices.
This can create a tricky situation for renters, homeowners, and business owners. The real solution is not to use additional cords, adaptors, and boards to support multiple devices and a plethora of appliances. It’s important to have ample power outlets in a property. However, this type of electrical work can be costly and may not be a top priority or done on request in rentals.
While it’s tempting to rely on the piggyback method or use extension cords, doing so without considering the power limits can lead to overloading power boards. Understanding how to safely manage the load on your electrical system is crucial to avoid potential hazards like power surges, overheating and the risk of electrical fires in Australian homes.
How to safely use powerboards and extension cords
To understand how much power your devices will draw, you must first assess the powerboard’s maximum current rating and compare it with the electrical appliances being plugged into it. High-wattage appliances, such as washing machines or space heaters, should never be plugged into powerboards. These appliances often require more power than a powerboard can safely handle.
When using extension cords, always check the number of power outlets it has and ensure that the total power draw doesn’t exceed their capacity. Keep in mind that extension cords are meant for temporary access and not for permanent connections.
If you’re using double adaptors or double outlets, it’s crucial to remember that they, too, have a limit on how many devices they can support. Avoid incorrect use, such as plugging in too many high-power devices at once, as this can quickly overload power boards and create a fire hazard.
What is the maximum current rating?
The maximum current rating of a powerboard is one of the most important factors when deciding how much power you can safely draw. This rating is typically measured in amperes (amps) and shows how much electrical current a powerboard can safely handle without overheating or catching fire. You can find this information on the powerboard’s label or packaging.
For example, if your powerboard is rated for 10 amps, that means it can handle up to 2400 watts (calculated by multiplying the amps by the voltage, typically 240V in Australia). If your electrical appliances connected to the power board draw more than this amount, you risk overloading the power board, which could cause it to malfunction or, worse, catch fire.
How to tell what power your devices require
To assess whether your powerboard is safe, you’ll need to know how much power each of your electrical devices requires. Many electrical items will list their wattage or current draw on a label, usually found on the back or base of the appliance. For example, a kettle might draw 1500 watts, while a phone charger could use as little as 5 watts.
Here’s how to check whether your devices are safe to use on one power outlet:
- Find out the wattage or amperage of each device.
- Add the wattages together to find the total wattage your powerboard will need to supply.
- Compare this total wattage to your powerboard’s maximum current rating. If the total exceeds the powerboard’s capacity, you risk overloading it.
For example, if you plug a kettle (1500 watts) and a laptop (60 watts) into the same powerboard, the total wattage would be 1560 watts. If your powerboard is rated for 2400 watts, it can handle the load. However, if you add more devices, the total wattage might exceed the safe limit.
How many devices can you safely plug into one powerboard?
One of the most important things to consider is how many devices you can safely plug into one power outlet or one powerboard. Plugging in too many devices can easily lead to overloading power boards, which can cause electrical faults and even fire hazards. Keep track of how much power each device uses and avoid plugging in too many high-wattage devices.
Devices like washing machines, microwaves, and heaters should never be plugged into a powerboard. These high-wattage appliances draw a significant amount of power, and plugging them into a powerboard that’s already at capacity could overload it. Instead, these devices should be plugged directly into main power points.
Essential features to look for in powerboards
When purchasing power boards, always choose those with built-in surge protection and an overload protection feature. These features help ensure that power surges or electrical spikes don’t damage your devices. Moreover, make sure that the powerboard is equipped with a safety switch that will disconnect the circuit in the event of an electrical fault.
For homes or businesses with many electrical devices, consider investing in additional power points or permanent installations by a licensed electrician. This can help you avoid double adapters, which often cause overloaded power boards and increase the risk of electrical faults.
The impact of piggybacking power boards and extension cords
Extension cords and powerboards are often used as quick fixes to address the need for more power sockets. However, both come with risks if they are used improperly. Extension cords, for example, are often a temporary solution, but they should not be used for a long-term power supply. Overuse or poor maintenance of extension cords can lead to frayed wires, creating a serious electrical hazard.
If you constantly use extension cords or powerboards, consider installing additional or permanent power points in your home or business. This way, you can avoid the risks associated with connecting multiple plugs to one single electrical outlet.
Surge protection and overload protection
It’s essential to ensure your powerboards are equipped with surge protection and an overload protection feature. Surge protection helps to protect your electrical system from sudden spikes in power, which can damage your electrical devices. Similarly, overload protection will automatically cut off power if the load exceeds the safe limit, preventing overheating and potential fires.
If your powerboard does not have these features, consider replacing it with one that does. Using powerboards with these features can significantly reduce the risks associated with power surges and overloading.
Avoid overloading with high-wattage appliances
High-wattage appliances like kettles, toasters, and space heaters should never be plugged into powerboards. These devices consume a large amount of power, and trying to use them on a powerboard that is already handling other devices can result in overloading the powerboard.
If you cannot avoid plugging high-wattage appliances into a powerboard, make sure the powerboard is rated for the required load. Consider having a safety switch installed to protect against overloads.
Taking care of your powerboard
It’s not just the number of devices that can make a powerboard unsafe; proper maintenance is just as critical. Frayed wires, exposed plugs, or poor maintenance can make your powerboard more likely to cause an electrical fault or even shock people. Always inspect powerboards regularly and ensure that they are not exposed to dust, moisture, or any potential hazard.
When plugging in devices, avoid using multiple extension cords or long cords, which can create a tangled mess and increase the risk of damage or malfunction. Ventilation around the power source is essential, as overheating is a significant cause of failure.
Final tips for safe power use
It’s essential to be aware of the common signs that a powerboard is working improperly. If the powerboard feels warm to the touch or you notice unusual noises, such as buzzing or clicking, it could be a sign of trouble. Devices plugged into the powerboard may also stop working properly, or the powerboard may trip a circuit breaker or safety switch. If this happens, it’s crucial to unplug some devices to reduce the load.
If you’re unsure about the safety of your current setup or need more power for your business or home, consider hiring a local electrician to help assess your electrical system. They can install additional power points and check for potential hazards, such as overloaded circuits or frayed wires.
Remember, proper use and maintenance of your power boards and electrical appliances can help prevent fire hazards and ensure that your devices are working properly. Always be cautious and, when in doubt, consult with a professional to avoid shocking people or creating unsafe conditions.
When to call a local electrician
If you’re unsure about the safety of your electrical system or need advice on the correct powerboard to purchase, consider consulting a licensed electrician. A professional can assess whether your power outlets are functioning properly, help you find a safer alternative, and install additional power points if necessary. If you’ve been using the piggyback method of connecting multiple powerboards, this is a good time to have a professional evaluate your setup and ensure it is safe.
Signs you might need to call an electrician include:
- Overloading powerboards regularly
- Frequent power surges
- Electrical devices becoming too hot or overheating
- Circuit breakers tripping often
Safe powerboard practices for every home and business
While piggybacking powerboards or using extension cords might seem like an easy solution to a lack of standard outlets, it’s essential to take a step back and assess whether your electrical system is safe. Always check the maximum current rating of your powerboards, avoid plugging in high-wattage devices, and ensure your devices are safely connected.
For personal safety and to prevent electrical hazards, make sure to maintain your powerboards and consider seeking the advice of a local electrician if you have any concerns about the setup in your home or business. Taking proactive steps to ensure the safety of your electrical system will help you avoid overloading powerboards and prevent potentially dangerous situations.
Need an electrician to check your power setup? Contact us today for a professional evaluation and ensure that your power outlets and electrical items are safe, functional, and up to code.