A power board, or an extension board, is a unit that offers several electrical sockets, enabling you to plug in multiple devices at once. It’s often equipped with a surge protector, which is crucial for protecting your gadgets from unexpected power surges. Melbourne electricians use these boards in homes and office settings, effectively expanding the utility of a single electrical point.
When exploring power boards, bear in mind their diverse range. These power strips are available in different styles and capacities to meet the various electrical needs today.
In this post, we’ll expand on the role, main parts, and common questions concerning power boards.
What is the Role of a Power Board?
The role of a power board is to increase the count of usable electrical outlets, enabling the connection of numerous devices to a single point. This becomes particularly handy in places where the fixed number of electrical outlet points falls short of what’s needed. Offices, workshops, and areas set up for home entertainment frequently face a higher need for electrical hook-ups.
These boards are not just about providing additional sockets; they also integrate important safety features. One key element is surge protection, which shields your devices from voltage spikes — a common occurrence during storms or power surges. Certain models even boast individual switches for each socket, offering enhanced control over electricity distribution to each device.
This combination of flexibility and safety makes power boards essential in ensuring electrical safety and efficiency in various settings.
4 Main Parts of a Power Board
The 4 main parts of a power board are the power cord, circuit breaker, outlets, and on/off switch.
Power Cord
The power cord is the lifeline of a power board. It connects the board to the main electrical supply. Typically, it’s a flexible, insulated cable that’s durable enough to withstand regular use. The length of the power cord can vary, giving users positional flexibility.
Circuit Breaker
A circuit breaker is a critical safety feature on a power board. It’s designed to automatically cut off electrical flow when it detects an overload or a short circuit. This helps prevent damage to connected devices and reduces the risk of electrical fires.
Outlets
Outlets are the most recognisable part of a power board. These are the slots into which you plug your devices. The number and spacing of outlets can vary, catering to different needs – some boards are designed for larger adaptors, while others prioritise the number of outlets.
On/Off Switch
The on/off switch provides an easy way to control the power supply to all devices connected to the board. It’s a convenient feature that allows you to cut off power without unplugging the board, helping conserve energy and ensure safety when it is not in use.
If you want to learn more about electrical systems, knowing what is an electrical switchboard can provide essential insights. Read our blog today!
Can I Plug Any Appliance Into a Power Board?
No, not all appliances can be plugged into a power board. Certain units like fridges and air conditioners shouldn’t be connected to a power board. This is designed to prevent potential fire hazards, overloading, and damage to the appliance.
Besides that, the following appliances shouldn’t be connected to a power board:
- Freezers: These need to be plugged directly into a wall outlet. Their non-stop operation and significant power use make them unsuitable for power boards.
- Microwaves: Microwaves are best connected to wall outlets due to their heavy electricity consumption, particularly for heating.
- Washing Machines and Dryers: Avoid using power boards for these appliances. Their constant operation and high energy demands necessitate direct wall outlet connections.
- Dishwashers: Similar to washing machines, dishwashers should be plugged into wall outlets. Their lengthy run times and substantial power needs make power boards a poor choice.
What Can I Plug Into a Power Board?
You can plug low to medium power consumption units into a power board. Devices such as phone chargers, lamps, laptops, and small kitchen appliances are allowed.
Be sure to check the total power draw of all connected items to avoid exceeding the power board’s capacity.
Is It Safe to Plug a Power Board Into Another Power Board?
No, it is not safe to plug a power board into another power board. Such practice, also called ‘piggybacking’ or ‘daisy chaining,’ can cause the electrical circuit to be overloaded, increasing electrical fire risk.
