Extension Leads & Reels

An extension lead is a fixed-length power cable with one or more sockets, while a cable reel includes a long, retractable cord that can be wound onto a reel for easy storage and adjustable length.

A surge-protected extension lead contains a component that absorbs sudden voltage spikes — caused by lightning strikes, power cuts, or large appliances switching on and off. These spikes can permanently damage sensitive electronics. If you're connecting computers, TVs, gaming consoles, or audio equipment, a surge-protected lead is worth the small additional cost. Standard extension leads without surge protection offer no defence against voltage spikes — the sockets look identical, so always check the product specification before buying.

Yes — always unwind the full cable before use. A coiled cable generates heat as current flows through it, and a tightly wound reel significantly reduces heat dissipation. Left partly wound under load — particularly with power tools, heaters, or garden machinery — a reel can overheat and become a fire risk. For low-draw devices like a phone charger, the risk is lower, but fully unwinding is always the safest approach and is recommended by electrical safety guidelines.

This is known as “daisy chaining” and is not recommended. It increases the risk of overloading, fire hazards, and voltage drop.

Only if the lead is specifically rated for outdoor use. Standard indoor extension leads are not weatherproofed and must never be used outside — moisture ingress creates a serious electrocution and fire hazard. Outdoor-rated cable reels have weatherproof, IP-rated sockets and heavier-duty insulation. Always check the IP rating in the product specification before using any extension lead or reel outdoors, and ensure any outdoor connection is protected from direct rainfall.

Add up the wattage of everything plugged in at the same time and keep the total below the lead's maximum rating — typically 13 amps (3,120 watts) for a UK extension lead. High-draw appliances consume most of that capacity on their own: a kettle uses around 3,000W, a fan heater 2,000W, a hair dryer up to 2,200W. Never plug more than one high-wattage appliance into a single lead. Warning signs of overloading include a warm plug or cable, flickering lights, or a tripped circuit breaker — if any of these occur, unplug devices immediately.