Seeking guidance on the security of installing 20-year-old power extension leads in the UK.
Seeking guidance on the security of installing 20-year-old power extension leads in the UK.
I checked the dual-socket power extension lead you’ve been using. It shows the year 2005, which means it’s quite old. I haven’t run into any problems powering your gaming laptop, but I want to make sure it’s still safe to use. If you plan to keep using it, consider checking the wiring and connections for wear, and avoid overloading it. For long-term reliability, it might be wise to replace it with a newer model.
I'm sharing this from my laptop, so I need to move files to send some photos. It's late now, but I'll do it as soon as possible. The device looks a bit messy, but I don't notice any tears. Probably they don't make them as well anymore—I've already had to swap out the cord for the connected laptop.
I wasn’t sure how much concern I should feel, but the way it sounded suggests I’m probably okay. Someone else recommended sharing pictures, so I’ll include those in this thread tomorrow. (It’s late, so I’ll post from my laptop and take photos on my phone before sending them)
I’d make sure to inspect the cable insulation, as they usually lose flexibility over time. I’d pop it open to examine the interior and confirm everything was okay. The air conditioner power plug I had been using for about five years was still working, though it showed some discoloration on the underside. My gut told me it needed replacing, and after swapping it out, I noticed the inside was scorched. It probably isn’t a fire hazard, but I’d rather spend a couple dollars on a new plug and feel more at ease. The same goes for extension cords—they’re inexpensive to replace.
As long as there are no large cuts in the cable jacket—especially if the exposed part isn’t bare—and the jacket remains intact without cracking, it should be fine to use. I’ve had some older cords that are still okay because they were kept away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. The cables from the 1960s onward are better since they’re made from natural rubber covered in fabric, which stays more flexible over time.