Introduction
Extension boards are quite common nowadays, and usually referred to as power strips, are very vital in today’s homes and offices. However, they can fail as a result of wear and tear or because they are loaded in the wrong way or with the wrong materials. Apart from your extension board failing to power your appliances, there is a little more disappointing. Luckily, several problems might occur in the extension board that a layman can fix on their own. Here, You will find how to mend an extension board and some safer ways to avoid further issues occurrence.
Safety First
For all the electrical board repair works you may be planning to undertake, safety comes first. It is always advisable to switch off the extension board to prevent any possibility of an electric shock. When handling water hot or cold use insulated tools and also ensure that you work under adequate light. As to any questions or moments’ doubts or simply you don’t want to work with electricity – it’s better to turn to a professional electrician.
Troubleshooting Common Extension Board Problems
- Blown Fuse: Check the fuse inside the extension board. If it’s blown, replace it with a fuse of the same amperage.
- Damaged Cord: Inspect the power cord for cuts, frays, or exposed wires. A damaged cord can pose a serious safety hazard and should be replaced immediately.
- Faulty Outlets: If only certain outlets on the board are working, test each outlet with a voltage tester. If you find a faulty outlet, you may need to replace it or the entire outlet strip.
- Overloading: Connecting too many devices to an extension board can cause it to overload. If the board is tripping the circuit breaker or the outlets are feeling warm, unplug some devices to reduce the load.
DIY Extension Board Repair Steps
- Disconnect the Power: Always unplug the extension board from the wall outlet before starting any repairs.
- Inspect for Damage: Carefully examine the board for signs of damage, such as burnt components, loose connections, or broken wires.
- Replace Damaged Parts: If you find any damaged parts, replace them with new ones of the same type and rating.
- Reassemble the Board: Carefully reassemble the extension board, ensuring that all connections are secure.
- Test the Board: Plug the repaired board into a wall outlet and test it by connecting a few devices. If everything is working properly, you can use the board as normal.
Prevention Tips
- Avoid Overloading: It is very important to always look at the wattage capability of the extension board, to avoid overloading it with devices that take more than this amount of wattage.
- Use a Surge Protector: An extension board with a built-in surge protector is a useful protection for your extension board and your connected devices from sudden power surges.
- Inspect Regularly: It is recommended that you also exercise a little bit of checking from time to time on your extension board to identify some of the signs of deterioration that might have developed on the board. One must replace the cords or the components of an electrical appliance that is damaged without any delay.
- Store Properly: When not in use do not leave your extension board exposed or kept in a place where there is direct sunshine.
When to Seek Professional Help
There are many extension cord repair issues that a homeowner can attend to on their own, but sometimes it is advisable to call an electrician. If one has any doubt about the procedure, if the damage is severe, or if one is working with a 16 amp extension board, it is advisable to consult.
By adopting these principles and precautions, you can properly address the wiring problems on extension board wiring and make the required fixes without employing the services of a professional, therefore cutting your expenses. First of all, do not forget that safety is the highest priority with dealing with electrical devices.
Conclusion
This article discusses some of the safety measures that should be followed as well as the probable cause of extension board problems and a likely solution to each of these problems. But it’s crucial to stay safe and remember one’s abilities. If the problem is tough to diagnose or if there is any doubt regarding electrical safety, one should never hesitate to get an electrician’s help. The proper usage and regular check-up of your extension board, as well as the right storing of it, would go a long way in avoiding such cases in the future thus leading to the optimum usage of the extension board.