Which extension lead is safe to run to the shed?
What to use for power in the shed, and when a lead isn't the right answer at all.
The household extension lead we list is tagged indoor, so I wouldn't run it across the yard to the shed. For a shed you use often, the safe answer is a weatherproof power point on the shed wall, fitted by a licensed electrician. For a one-off job, you want a lead that's clearly marked for outdoor use.
HPM Aqua Weatherproof Double Power Point 10A IP53, Surface Mount
Why not just use the household lead?
The HPM household lead is listed as 10A, 3 core, 1.0mm² cable and 5m long, and the listing tags it indoor. That makes it a good lead for getting around a room when the power point's on the wrong side. Nothing on the listing says it's built for wet grass, sun or being driven over, so I'm not going to tell you it is.
HPM Household Duty Extension Lead 5m, White
How do I check a lead is okay for outdoors?
Have a look at the lead you've already got, because the answer is usually printed on it.
- Read the label, the printing on the cable or the packaging for an outdoor rating. If it doesn't say, treat it as indoor.
- Match the amps. The lead's rating needs to be at least what's on the plate of whatever you're running.
- Uncoil it all the way, because a lead left coiled under load can get hot.
- Look over both ends for cracks, and plug into a power point with a safety switch (an RCD) if you can.
What's the difference between the two parts?
| Part | What the listing says |
|---|---|
| HPM Household Duty Extension Lead 5m, White | 10A, 3 core, 1.0mm², 5m, tagged indoor and household duty |
| HPM Aqua Weatherproof Double Power Point 10A IP53, Surface Mount | 10A, double outlet, IP53, surface mount, the one people put on the pergola or the shed wall, needs a licensed electrician to install |
What does IP53 mean?
The 5 is dust protection and the 3 is protection against light spray of water. So it's built for the weather on a shed wall, but I wouldn't point a hose at it. It's a job for a licensed electrician, which is totally fine, because it means the cable back to the house is done properly too.
What if my lead just has a cracked end?
That's a different problem. The HPM 10A socket end is what you reach for when the end of a perfectly good lead gets squashed or cracked. It fixes a damaged end, and it won't make an indoor lead suitable for outdoors.
HPM 10A Extension Cord Socket, Clear
If you're sure now, the power point is on the site. If you're not, ring us on (08) 8536 4333 or message us with what you're powering and how far the shed is, and we'll talk you through it.
Cheers,
Candeece
