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Posted to uk.d-i-y
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Trailing socket 'rules' ?
In article . com,
writes:
Andrew Gabriel wrote:
I would suggest you make up some rules for yourself for extension cords
Never use them as a substitute for getting the required number
of fixed sockets installed in the right places.
Permanent wiring is much safer than temporary wiring used permanently.
Always use high quality ones, not bargin basement ones.
Some cheap ones don't have good quality sockets. Extremely few have
sockets which are anywhere near the quality of even the worse fixed
socket outlets.
Leads up to 12m long must be 1.25mm˛ conductors.
Leads up to 15m long must be 1.5mm˛ conductors.
Leads up to 25m long must be 2.5mm˛ conductors (which won't fit
into a standard 13A plug).
Already discussed (earth fault loop impedance, which should
result in PAT test failure). Also, if you don't have any
rated less than 13A, then it's impossible to overload them
even when people don't stick to no-kettle rules and the like.
Don't use high current appliances like kettles and heaters with them.
Kettles and heaters and other high current appliances should
be properly provisioned for, which would include providing
proper socket outlets.
Don't forget to get the installation inspected and tested regularly,
There's no point PAT testing all your appliances and extension
cords if half your socket outlets have no earth connected.
Oh, and I missed one:
Don't coil or bunch up excessive cord length, as it can overheat;
use extension cords of the right length, and in temporary
situations, always fully uncoil cords and lay them out so the
heat can dissipate.
--
Andrew Gabriel
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