Whether at home or in the workplace, we all rely heavily on electrical devices every day. That’s why it’s essential for each room in your house or office building to have access to adequate power supply at all times. However, some buildings, especially older ones, simply don’t have enough power outlets to meet our tech-heavy needs. Luckily, there’s a relatively simple solution: piggybacking.

For a step-by-step guide on how to piggyback an outlet, read on. 

What Is Electrical Piggybacking? 

Before we discuss how to piggyback electrical outlets, it’s important to understand what this term actually means.

Piggybacking refers to the practice of extending the number of outlets by connecting additional devices to an existing powerpoint. This technique allows you to power multiple devices simultaneously using one powerpoint, without the risk of tripping circuits or causing electrical overload.

Safety Precautions For Piggybacking An Outlet

At Orange Electrical, safety always comes first. So, as with any electrical task, safety should be your number one priority when piggybacking an outlet. Some safety precautions to keep in mind include:

1. Turning off the main power source: Before handling any electrical connections, turn off the main power switch to avoid the risk of electric shock.
2. Wearing protective gear: Safety goggles and insulating gloves are recommended to protect you from potential accidents while working with electricity.
3. Using appropriate tools: Ensure that you have the necessary tools such as a screwdriver specifically designed for electrical work. Using improper tools can lead to damage or injuries.
4. Checking the wiring before proceeding: Inspect the powerpoint and its wiring for any signs of damage or wear. If you notice any issues, we recommend consulting a qualified electrician before continuing. 

Materials Required For Piggybacking An Outlet

Before starting, check that you have all the necessary tools and equipment on hand. These include:

1. Extension cord: Make sure you choose one that explicitly states it can handle the load of the devices you intend to connect.
2. Multi-plug adapter: This device allows you to connect multiple devices to a single powerpoint. The type you choose will depend on the number of outlets you need.
3. Electrical tape: This will be used to secure and insulate the connections, preventing any accidental disconnections or short circuits.
4. Screwdriver: For any required adjustments or mounting.

Step-by-step Guide: How To Piggyback An Australian Powerpoint

Now that you’ve got all your materials ready to go, it’s time to get started. Ensure you follow each step in sequential order to avoid any complications. 

1. First, check the wattage and amperage of the devices you plan to connect, to ensure they don’t exceed the capacity of the powerpoint and extension cord.
2. Next, securely plug the extension cord into the existing powerpoint.
3. The next step is to connect the multi-plug adapter to the extension cord, ensuring a snug connection.
4. Now it’s time to plug each device into the multi-plug adapter, checking to make sure the connections are secure.
5. Once each connection is secured, use electrical tape to wrap around the connection points, providing additional support and insulation.
6. Finally, turn on the main power source and check if all the connected devices are receiving power. If everything works as expected, your piggybacked powerpoint is ready for use.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

To ensure a safe and efficient piggybacking experience, it’s important to be aware of the following common mistakes:

1. Overloading the circuit: It’s crucial to ensure you adhere to the power rating of the powerpoint and extension cord. Overloading can lead to electrical hazards, including overheating, tripping breakers, or causing a fire.
2. Using the wrong extension cord: Selecting an incompatible cord for the specific devices you plan to use can result in poor connections, power supply issues or damage to the devices. Always assess the power requirements of the devices before connecting them to ensure your extension cord and adapter is suitable.
3. Ignoring safety precautions: Always turn off the main power source, wear protective gear, and follow proper procedures to minimise the risk of electrical accidents.

Conclusion

Knowing how to piggyback electrical outlets is a great way to maximise the power supply in any room in your home or office. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can safely and effectively piggyback a powerpoint to accommodate your electrical needs. 

Remember to be mindful of capacity limitations and adhere to safety precautions. Always consult a qualified electrician to ensure a safe environment and ensure a successful piggybacking process.

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Orange Electrical are specialist electricians in Brisbane with an avid focus on quality. We can Design, Roll-out and Deliver electrical projects all over Queensland and even internationally. Get in touch with our team for a quote for your project today. Get in touch: (07) 3357 8618.