In today’s homes and offices, it often feels like there are never enough outlets. Between laptops, gaming consoles, chargers, smart devices, and appliances, it’s easy to run out of plug space. At that point, the idea of connecting one power strip into another—a setup known as daisy chaining—can seem like a simple solution.
But here’s the important part: experts strongly advise against it. Plugging a power strip into another may seem convenient, but it creates serious fire and electrical hazards. Let’s break down why this practice is unsafe and what you should do instead.
Why It’s Dangerous to Daisy Chain Power Strips
1. Overloading and Overheating
Every power strip is designed to handle a maximum load (typically 15A/1800W in the U.S.). When you plug one strip into another, you increase the total load on the first strip and on the wall outlet. This can cause wires to overheat, melt, or spark, greatly increasing the risk of fire.
2. Compromised Surge Protection
Many modern power strips come with built-in surge protection. But when you daisy chain them, that protection can be compromised. The first strip’s surge protector may be bypassed or weakened, leaving your electronics exposed to damage during power surges or lightning strikes.
3. Tripped Circuits and Short Circuits
Overloaded strips can cause your circuit breaker to trip frequently—or worse, fail to trip in time, creating unsafe conditions. In some cases, short circuits can occur and damage both the strip and connected devices.
4. Violation of Safety Standards
Organizations like the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the National Electrical Code (NEC) explicitly warn against daisy chaining. In workplaces, OSHA regulations also prohibit it.
Safer Alternatives to Daisy Chaining
Instead of risking fire hazards, there are safe and practical solutions for getting the extra outlets you need:
Choose a Larger Power Strip: Instead of plugging strips into each other, choose a power strip that has enough outlets and built-in USB ports. That way, all your devices stay supported and protected within a single surge-protected unit.
Use a Power Distribution Unit (PDU): Ideal for server rooms or high-demand setups, PDUs are designed for heavier loads.
Distribute Devices Across Multiple Wall Outlets: Avoid plugging everything into a single outlet—spread your devices across different circuits where possible.
Install Additional Wall Outlets: For a permanent solution, hire a licensed electrician to install extra outlets in high-demand areas.
Recommended Safe Solution: A High-Capacity Power Strip
If you often find yourself needing more outlets, consider upgrading to a high-quality surge protector power strip. A great example is the DEWENWILS 10-Outlet Surge Protector Power Strip with 4 USB Ports:
● 10 AC Outlets + 4 USB Ports: Perfect for laptops, smartphones, tablets, and home office setups.
● 2480J Surge Protection: Safeguards your devices against power surges and spikes.
● 15A Circuit Breaker: Prevents overloads by automatically cutting off power when limits are exceeded.
● 15FT Long Extension Cord: Reach distant outlets without needing to chain strips together.
● Right Angle Flat Plug & Wall Mountable: Space-saving design for behind furniture, and flexible mounting options.
● UL Certified & Safety Covers: Trusted protection and child-safety features for peace of mind.
By using a single, well-designed power strip like this, you avoid the dangers of daisy chaining while still meeting all your charging and power needs.
Conclusion
Never plug one power strip into another. Daisy chaining can overload circuits, compromise surge protection, and create fire hazards. Instead, choose a high-capacity, surge-protected power strip—such as the DEWENWILS 10-Outlet Power Strip with USB Ports—to safely power all your devices while protecting your home or office.
FAQ About Power Strip
Is It Bad to Have Two Power Strips Plugged Into the Same Outlet?
Yes. Plugging one power strip into another, known as daisy chaining, is unsafe. It can easily exceed the maximum load of the first strip, leading to overheating, tripped breakers, or even fire hazards.
Is It Okay to Daisy Chain Power Bars?
No. Daisy chaining power strips greatly increases the risk of overloading circuits and weakens surge protection. Electrical safety standards strongly warn against this practice.
What Appliances Should Not Be Plugged Into a Power Strip?
High-power appliances such as space heaters, microwaves, air conditioners, and washing machines should never be plugged into a standard power strip. These devices can easily exceed the strip’s rated capacity, creating serious fire and electrical hazards.
