We should know that power strips are not substitutes are for permanent electric receptacles. But we often tend to use it for the ever-growing power supply demands. Mobile phones, laptops, Ipads, smartwatches, wireless earbuds, voice assistant devices, home security appliances, etc., the list of devices that require charging keeps growing. So, we need to power more than one device at a time. We go for an easy solution in the form of an extension cord. But power strips can be very dangerous when not used correctly. Regular extension equipment may not protect your device from voltage spikes. Moreover, you always have the risk of overloading the cord by plugging in multiple devices and could even raise a fire. So, one has to take several precautions while charging with a power strip.
- Avoid charging in hot places:
It would be best if you did not keep the devices for charging in places where the temperature is higher than the surroundings. For example, you should not charge it in direct sunlight in your roof garden using a power strip. Similarly, you should also avoid the kitchen area. It is better not to plug it in sockets near heavy load equipment like refrigerators, micro ovens, etc. These appliances produce heat, and when your mobile is exposed to additional heat, it could get damaged. Please avoid keeping mobiles or tablets on the car’s dashboard too. The permissible temperature range while charging is zero to forty-five degrees centigrade.
- Do not leave devices plugged-in for long:
Always do the charging when you are awake. Do not charge at night or keep it on when you are away. Once the device charges entirely, it is better to switch off. You should always know the time it takes for charging fully. Overcharging stresses the battery and is detrimental for its lifetime. Moreover, overcharging with a power strip having other connected devices could easily cause a short circuit and could even lead to an explosion. One should also check the voltage and ampere rating of the power strip. Most batteries get charged in a voltage range of 100 to 240 volts. So, you can use an extension cord and should never go beyond this voltage level.
- Do not fiddle much with the device while it charges:
When you charge your phone, it is under AC. But after charging, the battery supplies DC. Many of us would have experienced shaky displays as we try to uses apps when the charging goes on. It is especially true when the device is older, and the battery tends to drain faster. As apps need more energy, the phone tends to draw more power than that required. It not only delays the charging process, but powerful AC could also affect the circuitry of the device. So, you should ensure uninterrupted charging until the battery has at least eighty percent of charge. It is advisable not to use mobile phones for calling when they are plugged in.
- Avoid public charging ports:
It is especially applicable to mobile phones. We see our office mails, attend Skype meetings, and use the phone as an entertaining medium. Today, it is one electronic device without which our life would seem limped. But the phone’s battery falls flat faster with increased usage. Thus we are always in need of a power source. We often use USB ports in cafés, airports, and trains. These ports could be easily misused, and maleficent sources could access your emails, photos, and even the texts that you type while charging. So, you should invest in a high-quality power bank and avoid compromising data security.
- Do not use worn-out power strips for charging:
Power strips provide additional electrical outlets. So, one can often overload them. This is why the power strip comes with a surge protection mechanism that trips off when the current drawn is beyond its capacity. The ability to withstand high voltages is by diverting it to the metal oxide component. With time, the metal oxide degrades and high voltages could be passed on to the connected devices. So, one has to be extremely careful while you use an extension power supply system.
You should not provide options for external heating of the device or the power strip. So, you should avoid placing the equipment on rough surfaces or add external stress. For example, you should not keep your phone below the pillow while it gets charged. You should buy laboratory tested equipment with an internal circuit breaker or surge protector. But even the protection system tends to wear off. So, it is better to inspect them for any damage due to heat regularly. You should know the total of the energy consumed by the connected devices. It should never cross the rated capacity of the cord.
