Mains extension cords

Mains extension cords for taking power from a wall socket to a desk, appliance or workbench, in lengths from 1 m to 10 m. The range has over 70 models from brands such as Maxtrack, Micro Connect, InLine and Qoltec.

How to choose a mains extension cord

Cable length. Measure the distance from the wall socket to the device and add a little slack for routing around furniture. Our range includes 1 m, 1.8 m, 2 m, 3 m, 5 m and 10 m cords. A short lead keeps a desk tidy, while 5 m or 10 m suits a garage, workshop or larger room.

Number of sockets and switch. Count everything you need to plug in now, then allow a spare socket or two. A built-in on/off switch lets you cut power to a whole workstation or entertainment setup at once. A single-socket cord is enough when you only need to move one appliance further from the wall.

Load rating and cable thickness. Check the maximum current or wattage printed on the cord and compare it with the appliances you will connect. Heaters, kettles and power tools draw far more than a monitor or laptop charger, and they need a cord with thicker conductors. If the cable is on a reel, unwind it fully before heavy use, because a coiled cable can overheat.

Plug type and protection. Make sure the plug fits your wall sockets and the sockets fit your device plugs. Some extension cords add surge protection, which helps shield computers and audio equipment from voltage spikes. Cords for outdoor use need a suitable weather-protection rating, and ordinary indoor cords should stay indoors.

Mains extension cords brands we carry

• Brennenstuhl: a German manufacturer known for extension leads, cable reels and multi-socket power distribution for homes and workshops.
• Qoltec: a brand known for power products such as chargers, power supplies and backup power for computers and electronics.
• InLine and Value: both are known mainly for IT cables and connectivity accessories, so their power cords suit office and computer setups.
• Gembird and LogiLink: established makers of computer accessories and cables, with power extensions that fit alongside PC peripherals.
• Lindy: known for connectivity cables and adapters used in offices and AV installations.
• Juice Technology: a Swiss company known for electric vehicle charging equipment.

Also in our range: Maxtrack, Micro Connect, ACAR and Vertex.

Mains extension cords: frequently asked questions

What length of extension cord do I need?

Choose a cord about 1 m longer than the measured distance from socket to device. For a desk or TV unit, 1 m to 3 m is usually enough. For a workshop, garden tools or a large room, 5 m or 10 m is more practical, and a longer cord than necessary only adds clutter.

Can I plug a heater or kettle into an extension cord?

Only if the cord is rated for the load. High-power appliances such as heaters and kettles draw a lot of current, so check that the cord's rated wattage or amperage is higher than the appliance's. Where possible, plug these appliances directly into the wall.

Is a surge-protected extension cord worth having for a computer?

Yes, it is a sensible extra for computers, monitors and network equipment. Surge protection absorbs short voltage spikes that can damage electronics. It does not keep devices running during a power cut, which needs a UPS, and a standard extension cord has no surge protection at all.

Can I connect one extension cord to another?

It is best not to. Chaining cords adds resistance, creates more connection points that can overheat, and makes it easy to exceed the rating of the weakest cord. Buy a single cord of the right length instead.