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Power Strip vs. Extension Cord: Which One Should You Use?

When talking about electrical accessories at home, it’s easy to interchange some of the common items that we see. Such is the case of the power strip and the extension cord, which are two distinct things. In this article, we will look into the difference between a power strip and an extension cord, and the right choice for your intended purpose.

Power Strip

As its name implies, a power strip is composed of a series of electrical sockets with a cable and electrical plug at its end. This device is designed to accommodate and power up multiple electrical devices that are in close proximity to each other, say the devices inside an entertainment room.

Some power strips come with a circuit breaker as a precautionary measure in case a short circuit or power overload happens. In some modern designs, power strips may have an automatic shut-off feature when the device or appliance remains unused for a number of hours.

Extension Cord

Based on its name alone, you can already predict what this electrical accessory does. An extension cord is a long electrical cable with at least one socket on one end and an electrical plug on the other. It is designed to extend a power outlet to a distant electrical device or appliance.

Extension cords come in a variety of forms, depending on the use. Some are only 2 feet long, while others run 30 feet or longer.

Situations Where Power Strips and Extension Cords Are Used

It’s easy to confuse the two terms, especially since some manufacturers have designed power strips with lengthy cables similar to most extension cords. However, the main difference between the two lies in the purpose:

  • If you want to multiply the number of electrical outlets from a single source, use a power strip.
  • If you want to stretch out a power source towards a distant appliance, use an extension cord

Here are some of the best ways to maximize the use of the power strip and the extension cord:

Power strip:

Entertainment rack with multiple audio and video devices, computer setup with printer and router, permanent installation of multiple sockets.

Extension cord:

Appliances far away from an electrical outlet, temporary electrical setup, extension of power to occasional outdoor appliances.

Final Word

Whether you use a power strip or extension cord, make sure that safety is at the top of your priority. Never overload a power strip with so many appliances, and don’t make an extension cord permanent.

Knowing the purpose of each tool, you can maximize the use of either the power strip or the extension cord.

If you need help installing a power strip at home, feel free to contact us at Wire Craft.

Unsure if your current electrical configuration is safe? Schedule a home inspection today!

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Electrical Technical Terms That Homeowners Need To Understand

electrical terms

Can you imagine life without electricity? When the power is out, chances are you will feel anxious and on the edge. That’s why it’s important for homeowners to know and understand some of the most fundamental technical terms related to the electrical system.

Although electricity is consumed on a daily basis, most homeowners are not educated on basic electrical terms. What’s worse is that they have little to no idea on the dangers of electrical malfunction and the strategies to minimize accidents when handling electricity.

To enrich your electrical vocabulary, take a look at some of these terminologies that professional electricians use regularly.

Circuit

This term refers to a path or route wherein electricity can pass. Technically it is the “electrical circuit”. Most professionals who handle this type of job are using the term “circuit”.

As the term implies, it’s a circular or looping mechanism. Electricity is carried out by electrons that pass through the circuit. The electrons will do one of two things: (1) leave the circuit towards a ground or appliance, or (2) return to the power source to complete the circuit.

Short circuit

This phenomenon occurs when an ungrounded circuit accidentally connects with a grounded circuit. This is usually caused by an abnormal connection (whether intentional or accidental) in varying voltages. When this happens, parts of the circuit with low resistance may experience overheating, thereby causing fires or circuit damage.

Some of the common culprits of short circuit include faulty wire insulation, house pests, loose wire connections, and malfunctioning appliances. If you suspect any of these issues in your home, take the initiative to call us at Wire Craft Electric.That way we can help you protect your home from further electrical damage.

Circuit breaker

This is a device that automatically breaks or stops the flow of electrical current. It’s usually a safety tool to prevent electrical circuit damage, mostly from a power overload or a short circuit.

You may find this either inside an electrical box or installed on its own in a conspicuous area of your home. Don’t be afraid to touch this device, because this can really save you from electrical accidents.

Ground

This term refers to a reference point of any electrical circuit, either as a connection to the earth or a return path for current. A ground may be accidental or intentional, the latter of which is extremely important in preventing damage of home electrical devices from power surges. In other words, grounding will help your electrical system offload any excess current.

Final Word About Electrical Terms

Basic knowledge of electrical terms is a must for homeowners. This is in order to help identify areas where electrical system problems may arise.

Knowing these things is also important when it comes to describing your electrical problems to the technicians. It would be easier for them to to the troubleshooting and repair.

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