Can You Plug a Power Strip Into Another Power Strip?

When you run out of outlets at home or in the office, plugging one power strip into another might seem like a quick and easy solution. But can you plug a power strip into another power strip safely? 

Often referred to as daisy-chaining, this practice involves connecting multiple power strips together to power additional devices. While it may provide more outlets, it does not increase the amount of power available from the wall outlet and can place extra strain on the electrical circuit.

In this guide, we’ll explain why plugging one power strip into another is unsafe, what can happen if you do it, and what safer alternatives you can use instead.

Is It Safe to Plug a Power Strip Into Another Power Strip

No. In most situations, plugging one power strip into another is not considered a safe practice. This setup is commonly known as "daisy chaining," and electrical safety professionals generally recommend avoiding it.

While connecting two power strips may seem like a quick solution when you run out of outlets, it does not provide additional electrical capacity. All of the connected devices still draw power through the first power strip and the same wall circuit. As more devices are added, the risk of exceeding the strip's rated load increases.

One concern is overheating. Every power strip is designed to handle a specific amount of current. When multiple strips are connected together, it becomes easier to unintentionally exceed that limit, which can generate excess heat and potentially create a fire hazard.

Another concern is circuit overload. Household and office circuits are designed to carry only a certain amount of electrical current. Daisy-chaining power strips can encourage users to connect more devices than the circuit was intended to support, which may result in tripped breakers, damaged equipment, or other electrical safety issues.

For these reasons, electrical safety organizations and industry guidelines generally recommend plugging power strips directly into a wall outlet rather than into another power strip. This helps ensure that the strip's built-in safety features, such as circuit breakers and overload protection, can operate as intended.

If you need additional outlets, the better solution is to use a single properly rated power strip or surge protector with enough receptacles for your setup. For electronics such as computers, TVs, routers, and gaming equipment, a surge-protected model is typically the preferred choice.

Do not plug one power strip into another. If you need smart controls for compatible indoor electronics, connect one LINKVOLT Smart Power Strip directly to the wall. Its three independently controllable AC outlets, 6-foot cord, 2.4GHz Wi-Fi support, Smart Life scheduling, and Alexa/Google Home compatibility provide flexibility without daisy-chaining.

What Is Daisy-Chaining Power Strips

Daisy-chaining means connecting one power strip, surge protector, or extension device into another. With power strips, it usually looks like this: wall outlet → power strip → another power strip → devices.

Other forms of daisy-chaining include:

• Plugging one surge protector into another surge protector
• Plugging a power strip into an extension cord
• Plugging an extension cord into a power strip
• Plugging multiple extension cords together
• Connecting several outlet expanders in a chain

Daisy-chaining is risky because it creates multiple connection points and makes it harder to control the total electrical load. More outlets do not mean more available power.

Power Strip Safety Tips

Using a power strip correctly is just as important as choosing the right one. Following these safety practices can help reduce the risk of electrical overloads, overheating, equipment damage, and potential fire hazards.

Choose a Quality Power Strip

Not all power strips offer the same level of safety. Select products from reputable manufacturers that include safety features such as circuit breakers, grounded protection, fire-resistant housing, and recognized safety certifications like UL or ETL.

Plug Directly Into the Wall

A power strip should be plugged directly into a properly grounded wall outlet whenever possible. Avoid connecting it through another power strip, surge protector, or extension cord.

Do Not Daisy-Chain

Never plug one power strip into another power strip. Daisy-chaining increases the risk of overloading the circuit, overheating connections, and creating potential fire hazards.

Check the Load Capacity

Every power strip has a maximum electrical rating, typically listed in amps or watts. Before connecting multiple devices, make sure their combined power draw stays within the strip’s rated capacity.

Do Not Overload

Even if there are empty outlets available, avoid plugging in more equipment than the strip is designed to handle. Overloaded power strips can overheat and may trip the built-in circuit breaker or become damaged.

Mind the Placement

Keep power strips in open, well-ventilated areas where heat can dissipate properly. Avoid placing them under rugs, blankets, furniture, or inside enclosed cabinets. Also keep them away from sinks, bathtubs, aquariums, and other sources of moisture.

Avoid High-Wattage Appliances

Standard power strips are generally intended for electronics and low-to-medium power devices. Do not use them for space heaters, microwaves, refrigerators, air conditioners, toaster ovens, or other high-draw appliances unless the product is specifically rated for that purpose.

Inspect Regularly

Periodically examine power strips for signs of wear or damage, including frayed cords, loose outlets, scorch marks, cracked housing, discoloration, or melted plastic. Stop using the strip immediately if any damage is found.

Use Surge Protection for Electronics

For computers, TVs, gaming consoles, routers, and other sensitive electronics, choose a surge protector rather than a basic power strip. Surge protection helps defend connected devices against voltage spikes and power surges.

Check Indicator Lights

If your power strip includes surge protection, periodically verify that the protected and grounded indicator lights are functioning properly. These indicators can help confirm that the surge protection features are still active.

FAQs about Power Strip Safety

1. Is it dangerous to plug one power strip into another?

Yes, it can be dangerous. The risk increases when multiple devices, high-wattage appliances, or long-term setups are involved.

2. Does plugging two power strips together give more power?

No. Adding another power strip gives you more outlets, but it does not increase the electrical capacity of the wall outlet or circuit.

3. Is daisy-chaining power strips a fire hazard?

It can be. Daisy-chaining can lead to overload and overheating, especially if the strips are hidden, damaged, or used with high-wattage devices.

4. Can I plug a surge protector into a power strip?

It is generally not recommended. A surge protector should usually be plugged directly into a wall outlet.

Conclusion

You should not plug a power strip into another power strip. This setup, known as daisy-chaining, may seem convenient, but it can overload the first strip, create extra connection points, and increase the risk of overheating or fire.

If you need more outlets, choose a properly rated power strip or surge protector with enough receptacles for your devices. If you need USB charging, choose a model with built-in USB-A or USB-C ports. If you need surge protection for electronics, use a surge protector power strip rather than a basic strip.