'Stacking' of sockets - Safe/wise?

[JB-BJ]

Good afternoon,

I am considering external lighting, most of which is powered by a standard UK plug.

In the past I have connected the plugs into a 'passthrough' RCD, such as this;

My question is whether it is safe (or wise) to further 'stack' such plus with other plugs. For example, would it be safe to put a smart plug into the RCD;

And then would it be safe to plug an extension into that (assuming all load is within the limits of the most limiting component?)

I realize that it is 'messy,' but it would all be off a socket in the garage, so there's no risk of anybody knocking them - the question is just whether it's safe.

Many thanks.

 

[DetlefSchmitz]

Presumably you don't have RCDs in your consumer unit?

 

[RandomGrinch]

As above, if your CU is protected by RCDs, then extra ones are a little superfluous!

Otherwise, you can save one 'stack', by using a rewirable RCD plug, on the flex to your extension lead - something like:

Masterplug 13A Unfused Plug-In Active RCD Plug - Screwfix

Order online at Screwfix.com. Added protection from the risk of electric shock. FREE next day delivery available, free collection in 1 minute.

www.screwfix.com

You also have the option of using a smart extension lead:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/TP-Link-SmartThings-Wireless-Required-KP303/dp/B082LK6KPY

Just change the plug for the RCD rewirable plug, and the jobs done

 

[JB-BJ]

Presumably you don't have RCDs in your consumer unit?

Not every socket, regrettably.

 

[plugwash]

There are two main issues with stacking (which can compound each other).

1. Not all items can be stacked cleanly. An item may have a shape that blocks stacking completely, but more subtly it may have a shape that allows the plug to be inserted most but not all of the way. For example your RCD adapter seems to have a slight lip just above the socket, if the next item in the stack does not accommodate that lip then it may not be able to be fully inserted.
2. Assuming the socket is mounted on a wall, stacking places more stress on the plug/socket connection because it increases the length of the lever arm. This is especially true if the top of the stack is a heavy wall wart or if something yanks on the cable or knocks the stack.

 

[hllns]

Replace the socket for a one with a built-in RCD rather than using a plug-in RCD?

 

[Sureitsoff?]

BG IP66 13A RCD Switched Socket 2 Gang | Toolstation

BG Outdoor RCD Twin Socket Robust polycarbonate housing. UV stabilised. Manufactured to BS 1363. RCD protected latched 30mA to BS 7288.

www.toolstation.com

as H says

 

[ericmark]

RCD with an extension plugged into it so the Smart adaptor is not hanging on the socket is better.