How to determine whether extension cord is 15a?

[Doingmybest]

hi , I have an arlec extension cord stamped 15 a on the inlet end and 10 a on the outlet end. Does this mean it's rated 15 a ? 

Im needing a 15 a one to head away camping . I will use it to plug into my power board to run a few things incl 1800 w elec blow heater. Just don't want to go buy one if I already have one ! 

Thanks in advance 

[Doingmybest]

Also Eric, I'd still love to know what my existing cord with the 10 a plug and 15 a socket is made for ? Just be great to know it's use of possible . Thankyou ! 

[Noyade]

Looks a little like a power point and earth leakage tester @Doingmybest ?

Your image on the previous page - the power board and tester are unrelated products? Click Vs Burton?

[EricL]

Hello @Doingmybest 

Technically speaking if you have a 10A to 15A extension cord that has a circuit breaker in it. It's meant for use to plug your caravan into your house holds main outlet - Ampsafe Caravan To Home Electrical Adapter. Please let me very clear this must be a certified/safe cord that has been designed to be used specifically for that purpose as it has safety features on it. If it is just a plain cord, please do not use it as it has no safety features installed into it.

In regards to you running into a 10A socket in the campground, I would double check with the campground owner before using it. But as @Nailbag has mentioned the majority of the campsites often have 15A power sockets.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[Nailbag]

Hi @Doingmybest 

I think all this information maybe baffling you, when it shouldn't as it doesn't need to be that complicated.

1. If you're camping, a standard 10A extension lead will work just fine. Just get a builders one, which will be coloured and thicker than an indoor domestic white one.

2. Your power board though an older style does have a safety switch, so no need to buy another. Just press the green button when power is on to reset it.

3. If your power board is rated at 2400W, then you have up to 600W available if the heater is on. If you exceed that, say with a toaster or kettle, the circuit breaker on the side or end of the power board will trip. No harm or damage. You just can't exceed 2400W at any one time.

4. Other than keeping within that max 2400W rating you can plug "anything" in to your existing power board and extension lead for camping. This is not different to be at home, where your PowerPoints also have a max rating of 2400W and are 10A

5. And to reconfirm, your 10A extension lead "will" plug into an 15A camp power outlet.

Nailbag

[Doingmybest]

Thanks. I'm pretty sure I've got all that. I've got a new power board as well .thanks again 

[Doingmybest]

Thanks ! They are actually one and the same appliance ! 

[Doingmybest]

Thanks Eric. Appreciate your help. As I'll be staying in multiple parks and camp grounds, I'll just throw in a 10 a lead just in case 

[EricL]

Hi @Doingmybest 

Please make sure to post a photo of the campgrounds you'll be visiting, I'm sure our members will be keen to see the sights.

Eric

[Doingmybest]

Thanks again Eric for your friendly help