Is it safe to leave a power bar plugged in all the time?

Yes, it's generally safe to leave a quality power bar plugged in all the time, but there are important safety considerations to ensure you're not creating a fire hazard.

Modern power bars from reputable manufacturers are designed for continuous use and include built-in safety features like surge protection and circuit breakers. However, the safety depends heavily on the quality of the power bar, how it's used, and its condition over time.

The key safety factors include using a CSA-approved power bar with surge protection, avoiding overloading it beyond its rated capacity, and ensuring it's in good physical condition. Check that the total wattage of all connected devices doesn't exceed the power bar's rating (typically 15 amps or 1,800 watts). Signs of an unsafe power bar include a warm or hot plug, scorch marks, damaged cords, or loose connections.

Location matters significantly for safety. Never place power bars in areas where they can overheat - avoid covering them with papers, placing them in enclosed spaces, or using them in damp locations like bathrooms or basements without proper GFCI protection. The Ontario Electrical Safety Code requires GFCI protection within 1.5 meters of water sources, so standard power bars shouldn't be used near sinks or in wet areas.

Replace power bars every 3-5 years or immediately if you notice any damage. Surge protection components degrade over time, and older power bars may not have modern safety features. Cheap, no-name power bars pose the greatest risk - they often lack proper overcurrent protection and use inferior materials that can overheat.

For high-power devices like space heaters, hair dryers, or power tools, plug directly into wall outlets rather than using power bars. These devices can draw 10-15 amps and may overload a power bar that's already supporting other devices. ESA regulations require dedicated circuits for many high-power appliances.

If you're frequently using multiple power bars or running extension cords permanently, this indicates you need more outlets installed. This is common in older Ottawa homes where electrical systems haven't kept pace with modern device needs. Adding properly wired outlets is safer than relying on multiple power bars and requires an ESA permit and licensed electrician.

For questions about adding outlets or upgrading your electrical system to reduce dependence on power bars, Electrical Ottawa connects you with ESA-licensed electricians who can assess your home's electrical capacity and recommend safe solutions.

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Electrical Ottawa connects you with vetted, ESA-licensed electricians from the Ottawa Construction Network:Ottawa Electrical Contractors:

• Mike Fuller Electric
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• Home Town Electrical Services