Can I Plug A Smart Plug Into A Power Strip Or Extension Cord?

Smart plugs are a simple, affordable and ingenious way to instantly transform any plugged-in device into a piece of smart tech. Once your smart-plug-suitable device or appliance is connected to the plug, you can control it remotely via your smartphone, tablet, PC or voice assistant. And although a standard 3-pin wall outlet will do the job in bringing your WiFi plug to life, where does that leave power strips or extension cords?

One of the most common "automated plug" queries revolves around their relationship with power strips or extension cords. These familiar multi-socket strips allow you to plug in an array of electrical devices such as computers, TVs, audio equipment and a whole lot more. In fact, we even offer WiFi remote-controlled and smart voice-compatible power strips to let you cleverly control and schedule each and every outlet individually, whether you're home or away. Each smart power strip can set up to 20 groups of timing tasks and you can effortlessly share access for multi-smartphone control.

But if you happen to own a standard extension cord with no smart functionality, you may be wondering if they can handle a smart plug alongside all your other home electricals. Perhaps you have a TV, a soundbar and a disk player plugged into your power strip, but you want "smart control" of the lighting around your TV setup. It's time to find out if your smart plug works alongside everything else plugged into your extension cord with a little help from Eco Wizard.

Can I Plug A Smart Plug Into A Power Strip Or Extension Cord?

It's usually fine to plug a smart plug into a power strip or extension cord. However, there are a few important safety considerations that you need to bear in mind before doing so:

• No Overloading: Don't plug too many devices - including smart plugs - into the power strip as it can overload, overheat, and even start a fire. Always avoid exceeding the power strip's rated wattage and don't exceed the combined wattage of all plugged-in devices. Add up the wattage of all devices you plan to plug in and bear in mind that the total wattage of all connected devices should not exceed the capacity of the outlet itself. Also, be cautious when plugging in any high wattage appliances in the process.
• Invest In Quality: Buy a high quality power strip or extension cord that preferably includes such features as surge protection, overcurrent protection, overload protection, short-circuit protection, overheat protection and anti-lighting protection to protect your equipment and your home safety. The ENER-J Smart WiFi Surge Protection Extension Lead meets all these safety requirements and is available to buy now at Eco Wizard.
• Don't Daisy-Chain: Daisy chaining is when you connect multiple power strips or extension cords together. This can increase the risk of electrical overload, electric shock and fire ignition due to the increased current being drawn through the connected cords.
• Indoor/Outdoor Suitability: Make sure both the power strip and the smart plug are rated for their working environments. If either does not meet the threshold of outdoor suitability, then only use your power strip and smart plug indoors or similar setting which is indicated as being suitable.
• Don't Exceed The Maximum Wattage: Make sure you don't exceed the maximum wattage of the smart plug as well as the extension cord. Read all instructions and safety literature included with your smart plug before plugging in and don't plug in any device that draws in more power than your smart plug is capable of handling.

What We Offer...

Delta Dore G13EM Energy-Saving Remote Control Smart Plug

This energy-saving and easy-to-use smart plug will let you remotely control any plugged-in light or electrical appliance and monitor its energy consumption as well. A great cost-saving smart home solution, this smart plug can be fully controlled from a smartphone app to do everything from tracking usage to switching off devices left in standby mode.

Drayton Wiser App-Controlled Smart Plug

Whether you want to control plugged-in devices instantly or set schedules to synchronise with your lifestyle, this app-controlled smart plug is an innovative choice for any forward-thinking smart home. You can also combine it with all Drayton Wiser Smart Thermostats & Multi-Room Kits for even more intelligent control.

Shelly Qubino Wave Smart Plug (UK) with Power Monitoring

This exceptional ENER-J smart plug is one of the most advanced options out there. Comes packed with smart features including power monitoring, smart scheduling, an LED status indicator ring light, and enhanced fire safety and security functionality.

ENER-J Smart WiFi Surge Protection Extension Lead (3 Plug Sockets & 4 USB Slots)

Gain full control over all plugged-in lights, devices and appliances with this smart extension lead from ENER-J. Whether you're at home or away, you can control each and every one of your 3-pin power outlets, turning them on/off via the ENERJSMART App. You can also set schedules, share access, group control appliances and have peace of mind with an array of built-in safety features.