Home office electrics: are your sockets up to it?

Ampvale Electrical editorial team · 22 October 2026 · 2 min read · How we write

Signs of an overloaded setup

• Two or more extension leads in use, or one plugged into another
• Warm plugs or adaptors
• The RCD or breaker trips when the heater comes on

Simple improvements

• Add sockets so each heavy load has its own outlet
• Use USB sockets to cut down on chargers
• Move the heater to a wall socket and keep it away from paper and cables

When to get the circuit checked

If the room is on an old circuit, or you are adding a lot of equipment, an electrician can check the circuit can carry the load safely and that it has RCD protection. If your home has not had an EICR in ten years, now is a good time.