Can I plug an RCD into an extension lead?

Best practice would be to plug the RCD into a mains socket and then plug the extension lead into the RCD and then plug the appliance into the extension lead. This would then protect your extension cable and the appliance that you are using. You should really plug the adaptor nto the mains and extension lead over it.

What is RCD extension lead?

In-line (30mA) RCD – An RCD is a life-saving device which is designed to reduce the risk of receiving a fatal electric shock. The unit is IP66 rated weatherproof. The in-line RCD is vital if the socket you will be connecting the extension lead to is not already be RCD protected.

Are 4 way extension leads safe?

Yes it is. You should never ‘daisy-chain’ extension leads together. If you use more than one extension lead per socket it will significantly raise the risk of overloading the socket.

How many amps can an extension lead handle?

13 amps
Buckingham Fire and Rescue Service recommends that extension leads and sockets should never have more than 3,000 watts of energy or 13 amps plugged into them. Some extension cords can not even safely handle 13 amps – these should have the maximum amps permitted printed on their cover.

Is it safe to daisy chain extension leads?

“When it comes to extension leads, current cannot exceed 13 amps and the problem comes when too many high current appliances (such as heaters, fans, kettles or portable AC units) are plugged into an extension cable. If the cable isn’t earthed then the risk is lethal if the appliance develops an insulation fault.”

Is my socket overloaded?

blackness or scorch marks around a socket or plug, or on an appliance. damaged or frayed leads. coloured wire inside leads showing at the plug or anywhere else. melted plastic on appliance casings or leads.

What is the longest extension lead?

The longest chain of extension cables is 22,860 m (75,000 ft), achieved by IES Residential, Inc (USA) in Dallas, Texas, USA, on 16 May 2018. The attempt was acheived by 100 IES Managers at their annual meeting.

Will an RCD save your life?

An RCD, or residual current device, is a life-saving device which is designed to prevent you from getting a fatal electric shock if you touch something live, such as a bare wire. It can also provide some protection against electrical fires.

Is it safe to shorten an extension lead?

Outdoor extension cords typically have the same characteristics. Another feature that makes these cords very valuable and a must for any jobsite is that they can be shortened and cut to any length you need and still be quite usable—even if shortening the extension cord happened quite by accident.

What can you plug into a 13amp extension lead?

An electric heater and a hair dryer plugged into a 13 Amp extension lead will overload it leading to risk of overheating and fire. As a general rule, no more than 3000 Watts of energy should be plugged into a 13 Amp extension lead.

What is the maximum load for an extension lead?

As a rule, the specifications of the capacity are printed on each extension lead. This is usually around 3,500 watts.

How many extension leads is safe?

Only use one socket extension lead per socket and never plug an extension lead into another extension lead (known as ‘Daisy-Chaining’).