Not having enough power sockets is a big issue. An easy and cost-effective fix to this problem is an extension cord. You buy this electric tool with multiple outlets, plug it in one of the power sockets at your home, office, or anywhere else, and voila, you have many more usable outlets for all your gadgets in no time! Extension cords are handy tools, although mindful use is crucial.
Energy waste is a serious issue that must be addressed efficiently. We all must use energy smartly and responsibly, which also applies when an extension cords. The question remains: how do you ensure no energy is wasted when you are plugging in an extension cord?
Tips for Reducing Energy Waste with Extension Cords
Safe and smart practices can take you a long way. Keep the following suggestions in mind when using extension cords, and the objective of being more energy efficient will be within reach:
Choose the Right Extension Cord
It is the most important step—selecting the correct extension cords will make the entire task of using energy responsibly easier. With extension cords designed to be energy-efficient, save energy, and last long, you are already equipped with a more practical tool. Here are the features to consider when choosing the right extension cord:
- Energy-Saving Feature: Extension cords with LED indicators help you monitor the power status, and enable you to quickly and efficiently analyse power consumption. It will reduce the chances of you mistakenly leaving outlets turned on when they are not in use.
- Safety Feature: The best extension cords are the ones with surge and overload protection features. They will protect all your devices and appliances during power fluctuations, further lowering the chances of damage to the cord itself.
- Rapid Charging Point: Many devices now come with a rapid charging facility. If the extension cords have the same feature, you can charge your devices in less time.
Unplug Devices When Not Using
Unfortunately, there are electronic devices that continue to consume power even when they are on standby mode. Knowing which of your devices are energy-efficient and which are not is one way to save energy. Easier ways to stop unnecessary power consumption include:
- Unplugging your devices when you are not using them.
- Investing in a smart power strip with on and off switches dedicated to each outlet and eliminating the need to keep power on for the outlets and devices not in use.
- Enabling eco-mode settings on your electronics gadgets and appliances, if they have the option, to minimise power consumption when idle.
Do Not Overload Extension Cords
By overloading an extension cord, you create a chance of inefficiencies in power and even lead to potential fire hazards. Prevent such huge incidents by simply checking the wattage capacity of the extension cord to ensure that the total consumption of devices does not exceed it. Plug in your high-power appliances and gadgets over various outlets instead of putting them all on one extension.
It is best not to keep the extension cords covered or wrapped in something when in use, as it can increase the heat and cause damage. Running the cords under any rug or furniture with very limited space can also cause overheating.
Another highly forbidden practice has to be plugging multiple extension cords together, like one on another, creating a power chain of some sort. This can lead to overheating and excessive energy loss.
Use Energy-Efficient Devices
Energy-efficient devices help reduce overall power consumption when connected to an extension cord. To improve efficiency:
- Opt for LED lighting instead of incandescent bulbs when using extension cords for lamps.
- Use appliances that are designed to draw less power.
- Consider smart plugs or Wi-Fi-enabled power strips that allow remote monitoring and control of energy usage.
- Invest in low-energy adapters and chargers that prevent unnecessary power draw.
Inspect and Maintain Extension Cords Regularly
Damaged extension cords or cords with extensive wear and tear can lead to energy losses and safety risks. Routine maintenance is mandatory and includes steps like:
- Checking for frayed, exposed, or melted wires.
- Ensuring connections at plug points are tight, and there is no resistance.
- Replacing old cords with newer, high-efficiency models.
- Avoiding tangling and excessive wearing to prevent serious damage to the cords.
Use Extension Cords When Necessary
Just like you should keep lights and fans on in a room only when you are using it, you should also plug in the extension cord when you need it. It will sit their drawing power unnecessarily if mistakenly left on. Leaving the extension cord on without knowledge can lead to fire hazards.
Store Extension Cords Properly
Improper storage can degrade extension cords, increasing resistance and reducing efficiency. Best practices when storing extension cords include:
- Looping the cords loosely to prevent damage.
- Keeping cords away from moisture and extreme temperatures to stop any damage and energy inefficiency.
- Storing cords in designated holders or reels to prevent knots and unnecessary stretching.
Popular Misconception
Since we are sharing tips on energy-efficient usage of extension cords, here are two popular myths and the truth about them:
All Extension Cords are the Same: Myth
Not all extension cords are designed with the same features, and not all are suitable for every application. Choosing the right cord based on length, wattage capacity, and safety features is crucial to energy efficiency and safety.
Extension Cords Draw Power At All Times: Myth
Extension cords draw power only when you have plugged in devices on them and turn the switch, if any, on.
Final Thoughts
Extension cords can prove to be quite useful for plugging and charging multiple devices when you do not have enough power sockets. The best models come with smart features to ensure power efficiency and safety. All that said, a lot depends on how the extension cords are being used. It is natural that with mindful practices, you can keep your energy consumption low. Also, when used the right way, extension cords function well and have minimum chances of damage.