Power Strip Rating: Gauge vs Quality

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Power strip ratings are influenced by both the gauge of the cord and the quality of the sockets. While the cord gauge can indicate capacity, poor-quality sockets can lead to overheating regardless of cord quality. Many power strips are rated for a total of 15A, with some rated lower at 10A. Components are often designed to meet minimum standards to reduce costs. Overloading a power strip can result in smoke and potential hazards.
QwertyXP
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Hi

Does anyone know how to rate a power strip?

I read somewhere that the rating is based on the gauge of the cord. However, this does not seem to be very accurate because if the cord is very good but sockets are of poor quality, the socket board could overheat. Also, if the cord consists of metal strands rather than a single copper cable, the gauge-based rating would probably not apply.

Thank You.
 
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They are typically only 15A TOTAL - some are less like 10A, however the gauge of the cord is a pretty good indicator- since they want to make them as cheap as possible - each component will typically be just sufficient to meet the rating.
If there is smoke coming out it is being used over / beyond its rating...
 

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