Socket extension question - max amps

[stoutlad]

This has no doubt been asked often by non electrical minded folk like me but when a socket extension says maximum 13amps, does actually that mean 4 plugs fitted with 3amp fuses like desk lamps etc (or 5a+5a+3a) or does it go by the actual amps of the equipment and you could have say 6 plugs with 5 amp fuses all switched on in your socket extension? is it watts divided by volts = amps?

 

[Adam W]

I know no more than 13amps can be pulled total as the feeding plug won't allow it. Anyone know of any easier way to explain this to my client as the lead was running quite hot so must be near its limits.

I think I'd use that as a starting block, ie 'heat is where fires start'.
Also point out that if the insulation in the extension melts together there will be a short circuit, the fuse should operate and they'll need a new extension lead, but think about what it's doing to the cables inside the walls....

Regulation 5 of the EAWR springs to mind: "No electrical equipment shall be put into use where its strength and capability may be exceeded in such a way as may give rise to danger."

 

[needasparks]

cheers Adam, am sending a letter advising them about it but wanted correct wording.

 

[HandySparks]

and also remember that if the extension is a wind-up one on a reel, the current capacity is way under 13A if coiled up-- nearer to 5A. seen a few of these melt without blowing their 13A fuse.

Second picture down in my "Black Museum":
Andrew Neish, Liphook Electrician and Handyman

 

[Guest111]

also advise them that in case of fire insurance may not pay out if they can prove they knew what they were doing was wrong,funny how you can tell them facts and they don,t listen,tell them their insurance may be affected and they tend to wake up.Failing that find a good wall and bang your head against it,that normaly works for me

 

[needasparks]

also advise them that in case of fire insurance may not pay out if they can prove they knew what they were doing was wrong,funny how you can tell them facts and they don,t listen,tell them their insurance may be affected and they tend to wake up.Failing that find a good wall and bang your head against it,that normaly works for me

Strange you say that. They are an insurance brokers !

 

[brooky25]

Code of practice states somewhere that 4 way or whatever extension leads should only be used a temporary measure and there should be enough s/o's provided as stated in bs7671, or some thing along them lines

 

[Guitarist]

Tell them that you will sue them for putting your life at risk....