Daisy chain power strips • Multiple power strips in series (Daisy chaining) is not allowed and subject to a fine by Fire Marshal. For example, each socket in the power strip may be capable of 110v 16A (~1600w) but the cable and the plug that goes in the wall may only be strong enough to carry 2200 watts. There are no rules or laws that would prevent you from doing it at home. Each power strip allows its plug to be inserted into any 15amp receptical. This practice violates electrical codes and creates a serious fire hazard. I continued an additional 30 rows the same way. Jun 2, 2024 · Avoid Daisy Chaining:As mentioned, connecting multiple power strips together, known as daisy chaining, is a dangerous practice and should be avoided. ) # Using one surge protector/power strip to power another Basic Guidelines for the Appropriate Use of Extension Cords # Cords m ust be properly approved (by Underwriters Laboratory, etc. Daisy. As an example, the International Code Council's International Fire Code 2009 Edition in 605. There is no code violation in daisy chaing power strips. Overloading power strips is more likely when you daisy chain them, and that can lead to Power strips are designed to have a limited number of outlets. Most experts advise against it—here’s why. Always use power strips as standalone units and refrain from interconnecting Another reason people will daisy chain is to extend the reach of the electricity. During inspections, power taps that are plugged into other power taps (daisy-chained) should be removed, because such arrangement is prohibited. Dec 24, 2024 · Don’t plug it in another power strip; This is a temptation you should avoid. Be Safe Steve. 304(b)(2), Outlet devices: "Outlet devices shall have an ampere rating not less than the load to be served. In electrical and electronic engineering, a daisy chain is a wiring scheme in which multiple devices are wired together in sequence or in a ring, [1] similar to a garland of daisy flowers. That’s why daisy chaining power strips is bad. ) Feb 7, 2025 · Daisy Chaining: "Daisy chaining" power strips is the practice of connecting multiple power strips or extension cords together. Well, here is the gist of it. Jun 3, 2024 · In thunderstorms where power surges and spikes are frequent, it is definitely a bad idea to daisy chain your power strips. The recepts on power strips are rated at 15amps. But you are also adding more points of failure which may not be trivial. DO NOT series connect (daisy chain) a power strip to other power strips. What you can do to replace a daisy chain would be to replace your power strip with a cord that would actually reach an outlet so that you would not have to place a power strip on another power strip. Instead, find an extension cord of suitable length, or move your appliances Daisy chaining of power strips (known in building and electric codes as multi-plug adapters or relocatable power taps), whether surge protected or not, is specifically against most codes. This is an excellent way to short appliances and will dramatically increase the odds of fire, electrocution, and electric shock. Daisy-chaining is the process of plugging multiple power strips together to increase outlets. Electricity generates heat, and combustibles sitting right on top of the power strip are just asking for trouble. A typical power strip may # Overloading power capabilities of the cord during temporary use # Daisy chaining (plugging one extension cord into another and another, etc. The supply of available electrical outlets or receptacles in some older buildings may be insufficient, which encourages some homeowners to interconnect surge- protected power strips and/or extension cords. Additionally, you shouldn't daisy chain them with extension cords, either, because that is also a risk. Ever plug a power strip into another power strip (colloquially referred to as ‘daisy chaining’). It can cause overloading, fires, electrocutions and other hazards. Each power strip becomes another point of potential failure, or fire, in addition to the circuit itself. Keep the area around the power strip clean of dust, which can catch fire Jul 12, 2018 · Daisy chaining power strips is not allowed at a work. Daisy chaining is when power strips and/or extension cords are plugged into other power strips and/or extension cords. Oct 29, 2024 · One of the most dangerous yet common mistakes is “ daisy chaining ” – plugging one power strip into another. You also aren't allowed to plug a power strip into an extension cord. With that said, these rules apply to companies for a reason. Feb 28, 2022 · Daisy-chaining is when you plug a power strip or extension cord into another power strip or extension cord, often in a series of three or more such devices. It will also void all manufacturer’s warranty coverage and can result in the denial of a homeowners insurance claim. See a downed power line? Stay away! If you find yourself near a downed power line, shuffle away, keeping both feet in contact with the ground at all times. When you daisy chain power strips, you eliminate this safeguard. Jan 24, 2020 · This blog discusses fundamental electrical safety requirements outlined in the Fire Code to ensure safe and compliant electrical installations. What is Daisy Chaining? Daisy chaining is the practice of connecting multiple power strips or extension cords together. Figure 3: Daisy chain of power strips— One power strip is being used to energize two other power strips. Overloading. Is it safe to daisy chain a power strip? Daisy chaining a power strip can be safe only if you stay well below the load limits and watch for signs of overheating. 4. Aug 7, 2024 · Just like an extension cord, you should never cover your power strip with rugs or carpeting or stuff it under a dusty old couch. • Move equipment or desks or whatever needs electrical power closer to existing outlets. Even when one does not reach far enough, daisy-chaining power strips is still a big no. When connected in this way, the LED strip input voltage remains unchanged. Sometimes power strips are equipped with an internal breaker and called a surge protector. This is dangerous because an excessive amount of power is being drawn from one single wall outlet, which means the power strip or wall receptacle could easily overload. Power strips are not designed or tested to be daisy chained. Other Posts connecting devices so that tension is not transmitted to joints or terminals; no “daisy chaining” power strips; using power strips that are adequate for the number and types of devices, and no overloading power strips with high load devices. Power strips do not offer protection. This is a big concern for fire-fighting professionals because How do you stop daisy chaining? Avoid creating daisy chains by learning how to safely use power strips and surge protectors. (Nails, tacks, zip-ties, staples or other methods which may damage cords). Jun 25, 2023 · Daisy chaining power strips can cause electrical overloads, circuit overloads, and fires. When multiple strips are connected, the first strip ends up supplying far more outlets than it’s designed to handle. If the outlet is on a 15 amp circuit, the breaker will trip when it gets there, regardless of the number of power strips. g. ” There are three main reasons why this is not a good idea: When you connect multiple power strips, the one closest to the wall outlet might be supplying more power to more outlets than it’s able to do. Doing this is a great way to short out appliances, or drastically increase the risk of Oct 5, 2021 · Where in nec is the codes on these violations - strip outlets,the rules on daisy chaining - , extention cords used permanently ,overloading a 15 amp with other appliances added together like freezers on microwave circuits, over the 80% ,over loading single duplex outlets with multiple strips Jan 31, 2025 · 'Daisy-Chaining' Power Strips or Extension Cords . The real problem is two-fold. Apr 25, 2018 · Each power strip has a cable thick enough and sockets good enough to handle a specific amount of power draw. That is probably the best protection against lightning strikes that could otherwise cause The problem with daisy chaining power strips is that the internal wiring for each individual outlet is rated far lower than the power strip overall. Power strips can only handle a certain load. 7 (B) says each flexible cords shall be equipped with an attachment plug and shall be energized from a receptacle outlet place of daisy chaining power strips and extension cords. If possible, unplug all your electrical appliances from all power strips and surge protectors or get a whole house surge protector. power strips or extension cords. 2 states, "Relocatable power taps shall be directly connected to Jan 4, 2023 · The original electrician installed a 120 volt / 20 power drop to each row of work benches, about 15 rows. Jan 11, 2024 · If your electrical device is hot to the touch, be sure to check the power strip. • Choose the appropriate kind of power strip that will meet the electrical power needs. Load too much on a power strip, and you can cause the plug to overheat and cause fires, you can flip breakers, etc. plugged directly into the wall receptacle. Apr 20, 2018 · Power strips are commonly used for computers, printers, and other electronics at workstations, offices, and dormitories, residences, where additional electrical power receptacles are needed. Never “daisy chain” your power strip to another power strip. Sep 15, 2020 · Worse yet, the person plugging those power strips together probably doesn’t know anything about what load those power strips are rated for. Extension cords or surge protected power strips are often interconnected, or “daisy chained,” to readily provide more outlets and/or to reach greater distances. Each power strip has a 15 amp breaker in it and maybe a maximum load of 1 or 2 amps or a 600 watt solder iron and a small Apr 23, 2025 · Let’s review safety around power strips, and discuss the biggest no-no’s that could literally spark trouble. • A 20 amp circuit breaker is necessary when using a 20 amp strip/suppressor. “It increases the risk of overload and fire,” he says. It might be tempting to plug a power strip into another power strip (or an extension cord) to create a longer reach or power more devices. Leave a Reply Cancel reply. One power strip in a room is almost always OK. Fast Stats All conductors and equipment must be approved by an OSHA Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL) (29 CFR §1910. Use power strips sparingly. Nov 19, 2018 · Thanks for a great article on daisy chaining extension cords. Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration Salt Lake City Technical Center 1781 South 300 West Salt Lake City, UT 84165-0200 Dear Mr. When daisy chaining power strips, it makes it a little more probable that one can overload the amperage capacity of the first power strip or even the circuit because you are turning one outlet into a dozen or more. Find out how to comply with OSHA, UL and NFPA standards and recommendations for safe use of RPT. Learn how to avoid daisy chaining and use power strips properly with tips on wattage, amperage, and surge protectors. The problem is that people can use the outlets as a free pass to plug in more things than are reasonable for the circuit. They aren’t designed to maintain a load for extended periods of time, and can overheat quickly if used too frequently. Learn what daisy chaining is and why it is dangerous. Don’t Daisy-Chain. 303(a). Cee: Feb 15, 2025 · Avoid power strip hazards by keeping high-power devices like heaters, microwaves, and hairdryers out. As the power strip is intended for its own 6 feet of reach, the conductors are not suitable for 10~15A over the longer distance of 3 or 4 power strips of length. Find out the do's and don'ts of using extension cords and power strips to prevent electrical fires and injuries. Aside from being against more than half of Occupational Safety and Health Administration guidelines, it can also cause overloading, stripping, and fire. The "loose connections" on a power strip tend to be on the outlets on that power strip. Instead of daisy chaining for length, buy a thicker gauge extension cord to fit a power strip to. Listing information about Jul 22, 2016 · Learn about electrical fire safety, power strips, and NFPA guidelines to prevent hazards and ensure compliance with Fire Code standards. six wall warts into a single powe Nov 18, 2002 · Power loads are addressed by 29 CFR §1910. So if the power strip has 3 connectors, you may have a single device that uses 1600 watts, or you may plug two Aug 1, 2018 · Running appliances off of a power strip over the course of days or weeks can lead to electrical failure. Daisy-chaining power strips Daisy chaining is a term that refers to the practice of plugging a power strip into another power strip. Never “daisy chain” power strips by plugging one strip or surge protector into another one. Learn why daisy chaining power strips or extension cords is a violation of OSHA and NEC regulations and a fire hazard. Download the fast facts document for more information and examples of common violations. It is permissible as long as no tool is required to remove the device Jun 17, 2018 · Do not "daisy-chain" power strips together or plug a power strip to an extension cord to get extra length or outlet space. The only restruction is that the plug be 15amp. It significantly increases the risk of overloading the circuit and causing a fire. Oct 4, 2023 · One crucial rule to follow is to avoid daisy-chaining multiple power strips together. Connecting multiple power strips together in series, also called daisy-chaining, can multiply the chances of a blow-out or electrical fire. Daisy Chaining. And when something goes wrong the upstream power strip will pull enough power to catch on fire before the breaker trips. Evaluating power strip/suppressor capacity Jan 29, 2025 · Daisy-chaining power strips means linking multiple power strips together in a series that connects back to a single electrical outlet. So if instead of daisy chaining, I connect 1 outlet to the wall, and connect a bunch of power strips off that one power strips in parallel instead of series, then is that safer? If helpful, I'll be mostly connecting low load things like phones and lamps, but will at times have a toaster, water heater, iron, etc. Jul 6, 2022 · Now, with that background information in mind, let’s look up power strips the UL White book. Jun 11, 1993 · June 11, 1993 Mr. " Power strips are not designed for high power loads such as space heaters, refrigerators and microwave ovens, which can easily exceed the recommended ampere ratings on many power strips. In other words, you can use a 12V power supply to power a 4-ft section of 12V LED strip lights with another 3-ft section of 12V LED strip lights daisy-chained. Part of the code states that daisy chaining power strips and extension cords is a fire Do not use multiple power strips in series (Daisy chaining) Do not connect power strips to extension cords; Do not permanently secure to walls, ceilings, table legs, or similar structures. " Plugging a powerstrip into a powerstrip or current tap is a breach of the UL guidelines and makes the installation non-compliant. This frequently happens in older homes or offices where there are not enough outlets for the space. You're also adding some resistance, but that is usually trivial. Also, NFPA 70-2011, Article 400. Never Plug One Power Strip Into Another Power Strip. multiple power strips. So plugging any high load into a power strip is potentially dangerous, because power strips are not in general designed for that --- power strips are for connecting a bunch of small loads (Less than 200 watts each). Essentially, in the case of surge protectors, it means attaching more than one device to the same power strip. According to Luby, though, this practice is a bad idea. appliances. DO NOT use a power strip as a substitute for fixed wiring. Another common solution that is often used is to create a “mixed daisy chain,” by interconnecting several extension cords and surge protectors or power strips in a series. In addition, the use of. It seems like a brilliant hack when you’re out of outlets, but this is a serious fire risk. If the power strip also feels hot, unplug it immediately. That said, millions of people safely daisy chain power strips and surge protectors all the time. Relocatable power taps are not intended to be series connected (daisy chained) to other relocatable power taps or to extension cords. Connecting multiple power strips is a technique known as “daisy-chaining. Comment Comment. Power strips are actually called “relocatable power taps” in the UL book, and are referenced by the UL product category code XBYS. chaining increases the risk of fire due to overloading circuits. This practice is strictly prohibited by “daisy-chaining,” where power strips or surge protectors have been plugged into other power strips and/or extension cords. To start, as long as your circuit breakers aren't malfunctioning, daisy-chaining power strips won't magically allow you to run several hair dryers or microwaves. DO NOT route the cord of a power strip through walls, windows, ceilings, floors, etc. Learn about the hazards and legal requirements of daisy chaining power strips, also known as re-locatable power taps (RPT). Learn the definitions, reasons, and alternatives to daisy chaining power strips. These must be. Rick Cee Chairperson, OSHA-SLTC Safety Committee U. Safety Codes and Regulations Dec 9, 2021 · Alternatives to daisy-chaining . It refers to a method of connecting multiple devices to a single wire or port to conserve cable length and to save the cost of additional cables. Jan 8, 2005 · Each power strip allows plugs to be inserted into its recepticles. This is against many safety codes and standards and can cause electrical failures and fires. 8 (1) prohibits daisy chains, because the first extension cord (or power strip) is now acting as a substitute for the fixed wiring of a structure. S. Daisy chains may Feb 2, 2021 · What Is Daisy Chaining? “Daisy chaining” is a term that comes from telecommunications. Power Strips and Surge Protectors Surge protectors are devices with an On/Off switch and circuit breaker that protect against small surges. Don’t. When you link strips, each connection increases electrical resistance, plus the combined load adds up fast. Call PGE immediately at 503-464-7777 or 800-544-1795 to report any downed utility line and follow these safety tips: If you see a downed or sagging line, stay at least 50 feet away! DO NOT DAISY-CHAIN or plug surge protectors/power strips/extension cords together, due to risk of overloading the circuit and potential fire hazard. Learn why professionals oppose it and how to avoid it. Then several power strips were daisy chained together for the benches. Daisy chaining usually occurs when there are not enough established outlets to meet electrical needs. This is a term that refers to power strips and/or extension cords being plugged into other power strips and/or extension cords. May result in fire or electrocution, and may be caused by the following unsafe conditions: One wall receptacle serves multiple high-use power strips; The power strip serves an excessive number Title: Fast Facts - Power Strips and Dangerous Daisy Chains Created Date: 10/16/2007 6:57:16 PM Jul 21, 2019 · These devices are only approved to provide power to a specific number of electrical appliances, and daisy chaining them increases that number and creates a potential fire risk. • Power strips are not approved in chemical fume hoods. They are tested and rated to provide power to a limited number of items in a safe manner. These included: • Replace a power strip with a power cord of adequate length to reach an outlet. Oct 9, 2017 · In UL 1363, it is called a RPT (Relocatable Power Tap). Ah, the old “daisy chain” maneuver. Applies to outlet/power strips as well. Don’t overloadit Feb 27, 2019 · So NFPA 70-2011, Article 400. one into another, or by connecting with extension cords. With these little cords, their only purpose is to make it so you can plug e. Daisy-chaining, where one power strip is connected to another in a chain-like fashion, increases the risk of overloading circuits and can lead to electrical fires or equipment damage. As much as you can, try to find an outlet where you can plug in so that they meet the electrical power needed and A graphic representation of a daisy chain A daisy garland, a chain of daisy flowers A series of devices connected in a daisy chain layout. DO NOT connect a power strip to extension cords. wvtspaev jtxuprjs gcoh jhp mylexz cbcrk dhdei jzap rmotds bku ayt soti jphtv ywc xdfg