All about extension cords with a switch

Today, in the age of high technology, every person in the house has at least one extension cord, but most often there are many more. This is an indispensable attribute that all household members use. Extension cords with switches are especially convenient and popular, which we will talk about in this article.

Modern extension cords (or carriers) are functional devices that serve to transmit electrical power over a distance in the event that the length of the cord present in the device is not enough to reach the outlet in the house. The carrier consists of a protected socket, which is attached to a long electric cable, at the end of which a plug is provided.

To date, there are several varieties extension cords, however, are often the most popular and demanded devices with a built-in switch. They are characterized by simplicity and ease of use. Today, such products are found in almost every home.

Such an extension cord may contain many sockets. Such copies attract buyers most of all, since during their operation there is no need to constantly pull the equipment out of the network, because there are already enough free sockets. By doing this, users can avoid loose and frayed contacts, which is a common problem.

The average cord length of such devices is 1.8 to 10 meters.... Extension cords always have in their design reliable and sturdy cases. Most often, there are instances in which this component is made of special non-combustible plastic.

As mentioned above, extension cords are produced today. different types... Each of them has its own distinctive features and characteristics that the consumer should keep in mind when choosing the best option. Let's take a closer look at the most common options.

Similar varieties can be hassle-free and fast transfer from one place to another, without any extra effort... In most cases, the mass of such carriers does not exceed 15 kg. They are often used to connect power to all kinds of household or industrial equipment.

The specified design of the electric extension cord is specially designed to be permanently fixed in one place during its operation.... The weight of stationary carriers in most cases is more than 15 kg. The extension cord's fasteners prevent you from moving it from one place to another.

Today on sale you can find special extension cords with a collapsible body. Models are fastened with self-tapping screws and screws. The collapsible coil allows the replacement of wires and plugs or sockets.

Non-separable cable reels are also produced. They are made in the form of one complete unit with a flexible cable and a socket, a plug molded onto the cable.All devices are manufactured in such a way that if the cable is detached from the coil, the carrier is no longer usable.

For normal operating conditions of the device, it must be guaranteed protection against touching live components... Elements that form protection against electric shock and have mechanical strength must be fixed with screws or other reliable fasteners. During operation, these components should not lose their strength. Electric extension cords with reinforced protection, in contrast to specimens with conventional protection, are characterized by the presence of a double layer of cable insulation, additional protective elements of the coil body.

They can have a cord with a length of up to 10 m. The cross-section of the veins here is within 0.5-1.5 sq. mm. Usually this parameter is indicated on the cord. Household devices are divided into several subtypes:

• low-power;
• medium power;
• high-power.

They are mainly used to supply power to electrical tools at construction sites. They have a cable reel, where there are several sockets for outlets. It is on this reel that the cable is wound. Modern extension cords with an on / off button can have a different number of outlets in their design. Today in stores you can find the following options:

• on 2;
• by 3;
• by 4;
• by 5;
• by 6;
• for 8 outlets.

Of course, most often they are exhibited on the shelves carriers with five or six outlets... Models for two sockets are not sold everywhere, but this does not make them less quality and in demand among some buyers. Also, the current carriers with a built-in shutdown button are divided into other subspecies. Let's get acquainted with them.

1. With a shutdown button for each outlet. Modern models of extension cords with a remote panel, on which the power buttons are located opposite each of the available sockets. The model is very easy to use.
2. Backlit... Some manufacturers produce original surge protectors supplemented with backlighting. Its color may vary.
3. With USB. Multitasking model equipped with a USB port (or multiple connectors).

The current market is replete with well-known brands that produce high-quality surge protectors with built-in switches. Let's take a closer look at some of the demanded firms.

• Defender... A large and well-known Russian brand that produces practical and durable peripherals. The brand's technique has become famous for its impeccable quality. The Defender range includes classic extension cords with or without a switch. Most of the models are made in the traditional white color and are equipped with a red button.

• Atom... Another domestic brand that produces quality products of various types. The Atom assortment includes both classic models for household use with grounding, and reel-to-reel copies of the universal type. The brand's devices are inexpensive, but they serve for a long time and are in great demand.

• Krauler... A major European manufacturer offering perfect quality extension cords for consumers to choose from. The assortment of the company includes both classic white devices with an on / off button, and black versions, which are no less actively bought today.

• Schneider Electric... Reliable and practical extension cords are offered by this renowned manufacturer. The assortment of the brand includes not only household, but also reel-to-reel models of extension cords. The devices have an attractive design. Instances without additional connectors and outputs will cost quite inexpensively. Higher prices are for multi-functional items.

• Sonnen... A major manufacturer of electronics, home appliances and accessories.The brand appeared on the domestic market relatively recently, but has already managed to occupy its own niche and gain popularity among buyers. In the assortment of the brand, you can find many economical and easy-to-use extension cords with a built-in switch. Most devices are equipped with a heat-resistant plastic case.

When choosing the optimal extension cord model, it is necessary to build on several basic criteria. Let's consider each of them.

• Number of outlets. Based on the features of the model, there may be many or few of them - there are a lot of options. If the device has many sockets, then it will be possible to connect more units to it. The main thing is that their power does not exceed the permissible loads.
• Availability of grounding... The grounding contact is responsible for protecting a person from possible electric shock if the equipment is malfunctioning and is connected to an extension cord. In addition, grounding reduces the effects of electrical noise on devices connected to the network. It is recommended to purchase a carrier with grounding if it will constantly use a computer, refrigerator or other similar equipment. If only a temporary connection of devices is supposed, then you can buy a simple copy that does not have grounding.
• Cord length... This characteristic is individual in each of the possible cases. Some users need a short cable less than 2m long, while others need a very long cable. If you need a device longer than 30 m, it is advisable to find a product with a cable reel.
• The biggest load. Each model of an extension cord with a switch has its own maximum load, which is usually indicated on the case. Before connecting home appliances, the user should make sure that their appliances will not exceed the maximum allowable carrying parameters. If an extension cord for an electric drill is required, then a 1.3 W copy is enough. For a washing machine, you will need a model with a more impressive indicator - 2.2 kW.
• Protective machine. An auxiliary protective mechanism turns out to be necessary in such power grids, where power surges often occur. The machine will not allow such overloads to affect the carrying, especially if several high-power units are connected to it at once.
• Condition of cable insulation materials... Extension cords can have either multi-layer or single-layer cables. Versions with only one insulation layer can be operated in environments where there is no high temperature and normal humidity levels. Two-layer models can be used in more extreme conditions, where there is a high humidity level and high temperatures. Similar products will work in cold weather without any problems.

Any extension cords must be used correctly, following the basic rules. Let's get acquainted with them.

• If, using an extension cord, the user noticed that the equipment is malfunctioning, you cannot disassemble and improve it yourself. Better to send the device in for repair or buy a new one.

• We must not forget that carriers are devices for temporary connection of equipment. When finished using the equipment, be sure to remove the plug from the outlet.

• If you notice that the insulation on the cable is damaged, you must immediately replace it with a new one.

• If you are connecting consumer electronics such as a TV, audio or video player, it is best to connect them using a surge suppressor capable of blocking RF interference and short-term impulses.

• The device connection diagram is as simple as possible. Cables must be correctly installed in free sockets.In this case, it is not necessary to make sudden movements and swing the elements from side to side, as this can lead to their damage.

• Never tie the carrying wires to knots. Do not twist or block them with building materials.

• Do not route cables through door sills or under door leaves.

• When connecting various devices, pay attention to what maximum load the extension cord can withstand. If the connected equipment exceeds this indicator, then this cannot be done. Be sure to pay attention to these characteristics of the device.

In the following, you will learn how to choose the right extension cord.