is it safe to leave 4 plugs plugged into an extension lead that's on 24 hours a day?

Question

the plugs are for a fish tank heater, filter light and for our telephones

the phone and pump/light are all 3amps, the heater is 5 amps. the extension lead is spike/surge protected so i assume if anything does go wrong it will just cut out and not catch fire or anything???!!!

Answer 1

It is generally not recommended, mostly because most extension cords are just not made to handle a prolonged 'load'. But, I have had items plugged into extension cords for years and have never had a problem, and don't know anyone who had a fire as a result of an extension cord.

If you are worried, periodically test the extension cord to see if it is warm or damaged. If you can feel warmth through the insulation, then the load is too much and it is a potential hazard.

If you are really worried, or if you do find the extension cords are getting warm, they sell extension cords that are designed to handle heavy duty or prolonged use, it might be worth the investment to be safe. Or, buy a surge protector (the sort used for computer equipment) and use that. Both options would provide some added protection.

Answer 2

All other things being equal, this should be safe. Each of the items you mention takes an extremely minimal amount of power. Even the heater doesn't take much, unless it is a large fish tank.

Feel the extension cord and it's plug. Are they hot? If so, you have a problem. A tiny bit warm is okay though. Have you considered a power strip? You can get ones that have heavier wire in them. The one you want is rated at 15 amps. That should be 100% safe, even 24/7.

Answer 3

Its fine. I have my BIG TV, DVD player, Sat box, Wii, etc... all plugged into the same power strip, and its fine.

Its just 4 things. And your phones do not use a ton of Amps, Although I cant say the same about your heater, but it's fine.

Answer 4

extension cords are unsafe unless you have a large enough gauge wire in the extension plug. And even with that, extension cords are something to worry about.