How to avoid overloading extension sockets - Home Emergency Cover - 24|7 Home Rescue

Do you know how to avoid overloading your extension sockets? This short simple has tips on how to help!

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TRANSCRIPT:

Do you know how to avoid overloading your extension sockets?
This video will provide you with the answers.

Reduce your chance of getting an emergency electrical repairs or experiencing a serious house fire by considering the following tips:

- Know the early warning signs of an electrical fault
A burning smell indicates that a fuse or plug is heating up beyond safe levels. Any sootiness, dark patches or blackened marks around plug sockets, appliances and cables, or any evidence of melting or sparks, also reveals that an electrical item is creating a fire hazard. If you notice sparks when you remove or insert a plug, or if you suffer a mild electric shock, then there may be a problem with your appliances or your electrical wiring.

- Don’t use damaged items
Do not use any plugs or appliances that show signs of fraying or damage, or any with exposed wire, until you have repaired or replaced them.

- Understand the ratings of appliance leads
You can see the rating of your extension leads on their back or bottom. Do not plug in any items if they exceed the rating of the lead – for example, if you have a 10A-rated extension lead, do not plug in 4 3A items.

- Never connect extension leads together
Combining extension leads puts more stress on the sockets and fuses and can cause them to overheat and catch fire if their safety fuses fail.

- Be wary of block adapters
Block adapters are cuboid plugs that typically have two or three plug sockets, and are plugged directly into the wall. These are less likely to contain fuses and are far more likely to become overloaded and catch alight.

- Try to avoid using extension leads
Is it really necessary to use the extension lead? If you can get away without using extension leads, then do so! If you decide to have another plug socket fitted, ensure that you use a Part P-approved electrician.

- Use an overload calculator
This overload calculator allows you to determine whether or not you are exceeding the recommended load of an extension socket. For more information visit electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk.

Do you have any more questions about overloading extension sockets? Call 24|7 Home Rescue on 01254 3555 35, or visit our website at www.247homerescue.co.uk.