can you plug an extension cord into another

Full Answer

Is joining two extension cords illegal?

The legalities of joining two extension cords vary state by state, most states it is legal to join two extension cords together. The important question to ask, though, is: Is joining two extension cords safe? In reality, nothing is really dangerous as long as the limitations of the cords are realized and they are plugged into the proper plug.

Can you wire a ceiling fan to an extension cord?

The live circuit wire and the switch wire typically run behind the wall and ceiling, and are connected to the fan wires inside the box. If you eliminate the switch and substitute an extension cord for the circuit wire, you'll have to wire the cord to the fan wires inside the box, but it's illegal to do that.

Can you connect plugs and lights on the same circuit?

So to answer your question you can install 12 lights and plugs on one circuit. Keep in mind that all outlets now require an arc fault breaker. Due To arc fault breakers being so expensive to install, we put as many outlets on a circuit as possible. We install the lights separately.

Can I plug an extension lead into another?

When you plug an extension cord into another one, the primary extension that is connected to the main outlet would not draw more than voltage capacity, thereby reducing the voltage that gets into the second extension cord. Your appliances are not safe when you plug an extension cord into another one.

Can you plug an extension cord into another extension cord to make it longer?

Is it safe to plug an extension lead into another extension lead? No - you should never run two extension cords together. If you connect two or more extension leads together (sometimes known as 'daisy-chaining), the resistance of the extension leads increases. This can lead to overheating and fires.

Is it safe to piggyback extension cords?

Do not piggyback or plug a power strip of any type into another. Do not overload electrical sockets. Never use an extension cord with an appliance — plug them directly into wall sockets. Never place anything that can burn over a lamp.

Is it safe to plug a power strip into another?

Never Plug a Power Strip Into Another Power Strip Not only is it against half a dozen OSHA regulations in a professional setting, but it can also cause one or more of the strips to fail or even catch fire.

What happens if you plug 2 extension cords together?

Don't plug the cords together Some people string two extension cords together to get a lengthier one, but this is not a good idea. Extending the cords this way can lead to overheating and overloading, creating a risk for fire. Instead, get one extension cord with the right length.

Can I daisy chain an extension cord?

As long as the cords are adequately sized for their length and electrical load you'll be fine. If they aren't, you could easily start a fire. If it never gets too warm, it's safe.

Why shouldn't you plug an extension cord into another?

DON'T plug extensions cords together. Extending the length of an extension cord by “daisy-chaining” can lead to overheating the cord by overloading it, creating a serious fire hazard.

What would happen if you plugged one outlet into another?

If they are in same phase and you connect line to line,nothing. If you connect line to neutral, you will short circuit it.

What should you never plug into a power strip?

10 Things Never to Plug into a Power StripRefrigerators and Freezers. 1/11. ... Microwaves. 2/11. ... Coffee Makers. 3/11. ... Toasters. 4/11. ... Slow Cookers and Hot Plates. 5/11. ... Hair-Care Appliances. 6/11. ... Portable Heaters and Air Conditioners. 7/11. ... Sump Pumps. 8/11.More items...

Is it safe to connect 2 100 foot extension cords?

Power cord ratings are determined by length. If you plug two identical cords into each other, that reduces their current capacity in half and can possibly result in voltage drop and overheating. In general, extension cords should not exceed 100 feet in length.

Why is connecting multiple extension cords bad?

What's Wrong in Attaching Two Extension Cords? As a result, the load does not draw more than the rated current and also causes the temperature to increase inside the cord. It is also considered unsafe for other reasons such as trip hazard. That's why in normal practice, we avoid connecting 2 extension cords together.

Are multiple extension cords a fire hazard?

Extension cords can overheat and cause fires when used improperly. Overheating is usually caused by overloading or connecting appliances that consume more watts than the cord can handle. Damaged extension cords can also cause fires. Extension cords should only be used temporarily.

Why is it bad to daisy chain extension cords?

“Daisy chaining” is the connection of two or more extension cords or power strips. Daisy chaining is usually a result of inadequate access to power outlets and can lead to overloaded circuits and fire risk.

What happens if you get the wrong extension cord?

If you get the wrong cord, you will have an underpowered appliance since the cable doesn’t carry enough current.

How to yank a plug out of a power outlet?

Don’t use the cord to yank the plug out of the power outlet. Instead, go to the outlet, hold the plug’s head, and pull it out the same way you would have put it in. Yanking it out could damage the power outlet or the prongs on the cord.

Why do extension cords generate heat?

Temperature ratings and prongs. Extension cords generate some heat due to resistance between the cables and the electric current passing inside them. You should consider the intended use for the cord and make a purchase that matches it.

What is the most sensible way to move the electrical current from an outlet to another point?

An extension cord is the most sensible way to move the electrical current from an outlet to another point.

What does a lower gauge mean on a cord?

A lower gauge reading indicates a higher capacity. Overloading an extension cord will cause increased resistance; sparking, and it could lead to a fire.

How many fires are caused by electricity in the US each year?

You always have to be careful whenever you deal with electricity, be it appliances or extension cords. About 24,000 fires are caused by electricity in the US each year which makes it a significant concern.

Why is the cable bigger than the others?

The cable is even bigger and heavier than the others to make it more efficient by reducing resistance.