Introduction
It is rather difficult to imagine a contemporary home and office without extension boards those miraculously compact power strips with numerous output sockets for our gadget. But, like any electrical equipment, they can break down after some time due to various reasons such as wear and tear, and overload. Extension boards provide an extension and serve an important function, so when you realize your extension board has stopped functioning you can be frustrated. The good news is that when the extension board owner has little understanding and concern, most of the common issues can be fixed.
Safety First
Repairing is always done with precautions to avoid endangering the lives of the people who are in the room. Extension boards supply electric current and hence are a danger, therefore ensure the extension board is switched off before beginning the work. Employ insulated tools to minimize the dangers of electric shock and make sure you work in adequate lighting with no hindrances around. Do not proceed to the next step or do anything that you are not certain of or if the electrical work makes you squeamish, contact a professional..
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Blown Fuse: Extension boards often have built-in fuses to protect against overloads. If the board stops working, check the fuse. If it’s blown, replace it with a fuse of the same amperage rating.
- Damaged Cord: Inspect the power cord for any signs of damage, such as 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 extension board are working, the problem may lie with those specific outlets. Test each outlet using a voltage tester to identify the faulty ones. If necessary, you can replace the faulty outlets 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.
Step-by-Step Repair Guide
- Disconnect the Power: Always unplug the extension board from the wall outlet before attempting any repairs.
- Inspect for Damage: Carefully examine the extension board for any visible signs of damage, such as burnt components, loose connections, or broken wires.
- Replace Damaged Parts: If you find any damaged components, replace them with new ones of the same type and rating. For example, if a fuse is blown, replace it with a fuse of the same amperage.
- Reassemble the Board: Once the repairs are complete, reassemble the extension board, ensuring that all connections are secure.
- Test the Board: Plug the repaired extension 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: Always check the maximum wattage rating of your extension board and ensure that the total wattage of the connected devices does not exceed this limit.
- Use a Surge Protector: A surge protector can help protect your extension board and connected devices from power surges and spikes.
- Inspect Regularly: Periodically inspect your extension board for any signs of wear and tear. Replace damaged cords or components promptly.
- Store Properly: When not in use, store your extension board in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
16 Amp Extension Board
A 16 amp extension board is a socket that can handle more power than a standard extension board. It is frequently employed to power a large appliance or several appliances with a high wattage. If one wants to repair a 16 amp extension board, then the same steps are followed but one should be careful with the higher current amperage. There are always possible dangers inherent in attempting to repair a 16 amp board if you are not sure about it, and it may be wise to get professional help from an experienced electrician.
Conclusion
It might be a simple task to repair a faulty extension board in case you have taken all the necessary precautions and tried every possible solution. This article helps you know some common problems of extension boards and prevent them from prolonging the service life of the extension boards as well as avoid electrical safety risks. To repeat one important concept, if for whatever reason you are in doubt about any step of the repairing process, you are better off seeking help from a professional.