10 Jun 2026
At home, in offices, or in business premises, we often feel that there are not enough power outlets. The quickest solution that is commonly used is:
an extension cable (daisy-chained power strip).
One outlet is connected to a power strip, then connected again to another power strip. It may seem practical, but this habit carries significant risks.
In fact, in a modern electrical cable system, safety is far more important than simply making things "work."
What Is an Extension Cable (Daisy-Chained Power Strip)?
An extension cable is an additional connection used to extend electrical access from one outlet to multiple devices.
The problem arises when:
One outlet → is connected to another power strip
That power strip → is connected again to another power strip
Then it is used to power multiple devices at the same time
This is known as a daisy-chained power strip, and it is highly risky in household cable applications.
Common Dangers of Extension Cables
1. Cable Overload
Every power cable has a limit to the amount of electrical current it can safely carry.
If too many electrical appliances are connected, such as:
- Rice cooker
- Microwave
- Iron
- Portable air conditioner
Then the cable will operate beyond its capacity.
As a result:
- The cable becomes hot
- The insulation melts
- The risk of fire increases
2. Loose Connections and Electrical Arcing
Daisy-chained power strips typically create multiple connection points.
The more connections there are:
- The greater the resistance
- The easier it is for electrical arcing to occur
- The higher the risk of short circuits
This is especially dangerous for residential electrical cables that are used continuously.
3. Reduced Electrical Current Quality
The longer the cable and the more connections involved, the less stable the electrical current becomes.
The impact includes:
- Appliances wear out more quickly
- Electric motors (such as water pumps) run hotter
- Equipment performance decreases
4. Fire Hazard
This is the most serious risk.
Daisy-chained power strips used for high electrical loads are often the source of:
- Short circuits
- Burned cables
- House fires
5. Faster Cable Deterioration
Extension cables that are used continuously will:
- Experience excessive heat
- Have insulation that becomes brittle more quickly
- Have a much shorter service life
Why Do People Still Frequently Use Daisy-Chained Power Strips?
Usually because:
- There are limited power outlets in the house
- No additional electrical installation is available
- They want a quick solution without renovation
- They do not know the cable's capacity limits
In reality, this solution is only temporary, not a safe long-term solution.
How to Avoid Extension Cables While Achieving the Same Result
The good news is that you can still achieve the same functionality without using daisy-chained power strips.
1. Add Permanent Power Outlets (The Best Solution)
Instead of stacking power strips, it is safer to:
- Install additional permanent power outlets
- Use building cables that comply with applicable standards
This is the safest solution for modern homes.
2. Use Cables with the Correct Capacity (Not Just Any Cable)
Make sure to select high-quality cables that match the application:
1.5 mm² → lighting
2.5 mm² → power outlets
4 mm² and above → air conditioners or heavy-duty equipment
Choosing the right power cable will help prevent overload conditions.
3. Use a High-Quality Power Strip (Not Daisy-Chained)
If additional outlets are absolutely necessary:
- Use a certified power strip
- Make sure it includes overload protection
- Do not connect it to another power strip
4. Use Dedicated Circuits for High-Power Equipment
Appliances such as:
- Air conditioners
- Water heaters
- Washing machines
should ideally have their own dedicated electrical circuit using low-voltage cables or other appropriately specified cables.
5. Evaluate the Electrical Load in Your Home
Before adding multiple electrical appliances, it is important to:
- Check the MCB capacity
- Check the total electrical load of the house
- Ensure that the installation complies with applicable standards
- Why Is This Important for Home Safety?
Because cables operate 24 hours a day without stopping.
That is why using the correct house cables, household cables, and electrical cables is not only about functionality, but also about safety.
A small mistake in cable usage can have a major impact on:
- Electronic equipment
- Home electrical installations
- Even family safety
Conclusion
Extension cables or daisy-chained power strips may seem practical, but they carry significant risks such as:
- Electrical overload
- Short circuits
- Overheated cables
- Fire hazards
The best solution is not to stack power strips, but to:
?? Install additional permanent power outlets
?? Use high-quality electrical cables
?? Select power cables that match the required capacity
?? Properly design and manage the electrical installation
As part of the Indonesian cable industry, the use of high-quality cables from trusted national cable manufacturers such as PT Jembo Cable Company Tbk helps ensure that residential, commercial building, and infrastructure electrical installations remain safer, more stable, and more durable over the long term.
