Don’t go cheap. That’s the best advice to heed when buying an extension lead. Instead, follow the five simple buying guide steps below to make an informed and safety-conscious decision. To help you, we’ve listed what we think are the best extension leads available to buy in 2018.
Best Extension Lead 2018: Quick Checklist
1. Avoid Cube Extension Sockets: Although modern extension leads are generally safe, you should avoid buying cubed extension sockets where possible. The reason is that because of their compact design, some people suggest they are more likely to overheat and catch fire. We haven’t seen any evidence for this, but why take the risk?
2. Look for a Surge Protector: When buying an extension lead, always look for one that has a surge protector. This a feature that’s designed to stop voltage spikes by blocking or shorting unsafe voltages.
3. Built-in USB ports: Many new extension leads come with additional USB charging ports. If you’re looking to charge your smartphone or tablet from your extension lead, keep an eye out for a lead that has built-in USB ports.
4. Individual plug switches: Obvious, but not to be overlooked if you don’t want all plugged-in sockets to consuming electricity.
No longer than 15 meters: Electricalsafetyfirst.org.uk suggests that any extension lead over 15m is a risk and you should look to have extra plug sockets installed as an alternative.
If you still want to learn more about electrical safety? Check out the interactive Socket Overload Calculator below.
The 7 BEST Extension Leads 2018
1. Belkin BSV804
£21.99
- 8 Way Outlet
- 2 USB Ports
- Single Switch
- 2m Extension Cord
- Surge Protector
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2. HowiseAcc Extension Lead
Price: £16.99
- 4 USB Ports
- 8 Way Outlet
- Tower Power Strip
- 3m Extension Cable
- Surge Protector
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3. Hizek Surge Protector Power Extension Lead
Price: £16.99
- 3 Way Outlet
- 3 USB Ports
- Switched
- 6m Cable
- Surge Protector
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4. Sevada 3 Way Power Strip
£18.99
- 3-Way Outlet
- 6 USB Charging Ports
- 2m Extension Cord
- Single Switch
- Surge Protector
- Suitable for Home Appliances Office Travelling
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5. ELECNEWELL 4-Way Outlet
£18.00
- 4-Way Outlet
- 2 USB Ports
- Individually Switched
- 2m Extension Cord
- Surge Protector
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6. Status 8-Way Outlet
£12.00
- 8 Way Outlet
- Individually Switched
- 2m Extension Cord
- Surge Protector
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7. Duronic S125W
Price: £8.99
- 5 Way Outlet
- Single Switch
- Surge Protector
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Are you overloading your plug sockets? Use the socket overload calculator to find out.
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