Extension lead buying guide

Power extension basics

What is an extension lead? 

A power extension lead is a set of outlets that distribute AC power to electrical devices such as computers, audio/video equipment, network devices, power tools and lighting. Several styles are available, including strip, rack-mount and cabinet/bench mount.

Why might I need an extension lead?

If you have multiple electronic devices but limited outlets to power them, extension leads are ideal for connecting and powering a wide variety of devices, including computers, laptops, mobile phones, speakers, lamps and other equipment.

What are the most common extension lead applications?

Extension leads are typically used in homes, offices, server rooms, data centres, commercial, industrial and healthcare environments where power distribution to several electrical devices is needed. Some common applications include connecting computers and peripherals, servers and other network equipment, and for home entertainment systems and workbench power tools.

What common devices might be connected to an extension lead?

Six key questions to ask when choosing an extension lead

When selecting an extension lead, there are a few things you should consider.

1. How many outlets do you need, including transformer outlets?

Choose an extension lead that will accommodate at least as many devices as you plan to plug into it and consider more outlets for future equipment. Power extension leads are commonly available with up to 24 outlets. Remember that transformer plugs are larger than standard plugs. Fortunately, some extension leads are designed to accommodate transformer plugs without blocking adjoining outlets.

2. What cord length and outlet configuration do you need?

Determine how far you need to place your power extension from your grounded AC outlet and select an extension lead that is at least that long. Power extensions are available with lead lengths of up to 7.3 metres (24 feet). Outlet configurations include standard, right-angled, front-facing, rear-facing and end-mounted outlets. Depending on your application, a standard outlet configuration is typically sufficient, but front-facing, rear-facing and end-mounted outlets are also available for special applications.

3. What is the difference between an extension lead and a surge protector?

Both extension leads and surge protectors provide multiple outlets to connect and power electronic devices, but surge protectors also protect against AC voltage surges and spikes that can ruin your valuable equipment in a flash or build up equipment damage over time.

4. Does your application require enhanced safety features?

Some extension leads come equipped with all-metal housings, which are virtually indestructible, and 15 or 20-amp circuit breakers that prevent dangerous system overload. GFCI models, often used in areas where water is present, prevent shock by instantly disconnecting the electrical circuit in case of a power surge or spike.

5. Does your application require medical or hospital-grade extension leads?

Selected extension leads are designed for use in patient-care areas or outside patient-care areas within hospitals and other healthcare facilities. These power outlets are ideal for use in administrative areas and residential rooms with no line-operated electrical equipment for diagnostic, treatment or monitoring purposes. A patented antimicrobial coating helps to reduce the risk of healthcare-acquired infections in hospitals and other medical environments.

6. Are extension leads available for your server room or data centre?

Yes. There are a variety of rack-mount extension leads designed for server racks and other equipment in network environments, including data line protection for serial, network or phone line connections.

Other features to consider

USB charging

In addition to AC outlets, selected extension cables provide USB charging for mobile devices, including tablets, e-readers and smartphones. Each pair of USB-A charging ports provides the necessary amps of shared power to eliminate the need for AC adapters, leaving outlets available for AC equipment.

20-amp rating

Selected extension leads offer 20-amp capacity for high voltage applications and include a circuit breaker in case the power extension cannot handle this higher voltage limit.

GFCI plug

GFCI plugs are designed to safely distribute power to connected equipment in harsh environments. This feature protects users from electrical shock in wet or humid environments.

Antimicrobial coating

Exclusive, patented antimicrobial protection with silver ionic powder coating is 99.9% effective in inhibiting the growth of bacteria like C. diff and MRSA. This patented coating helps to reduce the risk of healthcare-acquired infections (HAIs) in hospitals and other medical environments.

The coating also meets the requirements of JIS Z 2801:2000; an international standard for evaluating efficacy in antimicrobial products.