On Thu, 15 Mar 2012 13:42:47 -0000, Fred
wrote:

Hi,

About ten years ago I bought an extension lead from Wickes. Not
knowing any better at the time, I bought a long one, thinking that a
long one could be used when long or short lengths were required,
whereas a short one could only be used for short lengths.

Then I came and read here and I learnt that long leads had
disadvantages. I can't remember now whether this was because of
voltage drop or fault currents, or may be both. Can someone remind me?

Anyway, some of my tools have started switching on and off
intermittently when plugged into the lead, and I can only assume that
over the years the contacts in the extension socket have been worn and
are not making a good connection to the plug.

So it is time to buy a new lead or leads. I seem to remember reading
that 1.5mm^2 cores could only be used safely up to 15m and 2.5mm^2
cores (in a caravan power lead) could be used up to 25m. Is there any
advantage to buying a short "caravan hook-up" cable to use for lengths
under 25m?

Otherwise I'm thinking I could use the cable from the Wickes lead, or
possibly use arctic flex as an improvement, to make some short leads.

TIA

Biggest problem with modern long leads is that if you use much power you
have to unwind the whole lot to prevent overheating. If you use thicker
cable you add to the size and weight. Intermittently used power tools are
probably not a problem but our wallpaper steamer is.