TaylorTortoise
Well-Known Member
Is it okay to use multiple lighting fixtures using one extension cord? Are there any risks?
Im using that exact extension cord and plugging it into an outlet. But, I have a baby on the way and I have another light fixture with two dome fixtures attached.Are you trying to use a power strip with an extension cord? That is not recommended. But you can find power strips with very long cords.
Your extension cord should be marked with the maximum wattage it is rated for. If you are below that in the total wattage used if everything is turned at the same time it should be safe.Is it okay to use multiple lighting fixtures using one extension cord? Are there any risks?
I guess calculate how much wattage I am using for the extension cord to see if it's safe? Is this what you mean?Your extension cord should be marked with the maximum wattage it is rated for. If you are below that in the total wattage used if everything is turned at the same time it should be safe.
Yes,I guess calculate how much wattage I am using for the extension cord to see if it's safe? Is this what you mean?
Can you post some pics of your socket/s and your extension leads?What do you mean by marked with the maximum wattage it is rated for?
Can it cause a fire or explosion or something to use two separate extension cords for one outlet?
How can I tell if it's strong to begin with?
Also, what if I bought another extension cord or a good one from home depot so two seperate exptension cords going into one outlet with two seperate units to plug in for the extension cords. Would this work?
So, If you don't mind, I'll chime in.
As a Retired Senior Maintenance Technician @ a Sewage Treatment Plant.
Typically the lowest amperage a US home has for breakers for outlets is 15a, 20a is more likely. You can look at the breaker lever and it will say 15(a) or 20(a). That is equivalent to 1800 Watts. ( 15a x 120v= 1800watts) or (20a x 120v = 2400 watts.) Depending on the size of the power cord It may or may not be able to take that Load. This being said, also, how much other stuff is on that breaker.
BUT, the question is about the extension Cord.
Note: All cords have imprinted on the side about every foot the size and rating.
A 16ga cord can take 1500+ watts, 14ga, 1800 watts, & 12 ga up to 2000+watts.. This being said, the typical light bulb or CHE is about 100+ watts, so even with a 25 foot 16ga extension cord, you should be fine with multiple bulbs, and if the power cord is 14 ga or 12 ga, all the better. The shorter the cord all the better.
If in doubt, plug in the load,and feel the cord after running for a while, if the cord is warm, it may be fine, if it gets hot, un-plug and get another cord, and try again. (Cords do age (plug contacts get weak))
I hope this helps...
If this brings up more questions, Just ask, I'd be happy to answer//// smiles....
From my experience...
Maro2bear, brings up some good points.Good explanation. I was going to add additional info on the extension cord wire gauge, but you have it nicely covered above. As well as the 15a vs 20a circuits.
For the OP....you don’t want to use any old small gauge extension cord like you normally have around the house. Always best to use a heavier gauge extension.
Home Depot has a good range - https://www.homedepot.com/p/DUROMAX...-Tap-Extension-Power-Cord-XPC10100C/302795674
Personally, i use many different extension cords to various lights, Radiant Heat Panels, Kane Mats, & an oil radiator. Keeps any one circuit from being overloaded.
If all you have are a few lights, a CHE or RHP, just purchase a decent extension cord. A few grades better than dollar store gauge for a house lamp.
Maro2bear, brings up some good points.
Additionally, using multiple cords is ok, but just be aware that usually all the outlets in one room will be on one circuit, or outlets around the perimeter of your home.
If you do this as I had mentioned in post #14 , depending what is also on those circuits, you should have plenty of capacity, unless you were to have a high load appliance that is also on the circuit as in a electric space heater which can use up to 1500+ watts.
If using multiple cords, just take care of the potential trip hazard.
And DO NOT use one of the outlet multiplier that gives you several outlets from one.View attachment 324840
Thank you Maro2Bear for your input.