How to Mount a Power Strip: Best Practices and Tips

Mounting a power strip efficiently and securely is not just a matter of convenience; it's about safety and optimizing your space. If you've ever wondered where and how to mount a power strip to prevent hazards and make your home or office more organized, this guide is for you.

From identifying the best location and providing a step-by-step process of installation to expert tips and tricks, we cover everything you need to ensure a stable and secure power setup. Follow us to mount your power strip effectively!

What Is the Best Place to Mount a Power Strip?

Choosing the right location to mount power strips is crucial for both functionality and safety. The ideal spot should provide easy access to your devices while keeping cords out of the way to prevent tripping hazards. Here are several factors to consider when deciding on the best place to mount your power strip:

• Accessibility: Choose a spot where the power strip will be easily accessible for plugging in and unplugging devices. This means avoiding locations where it would be blocked by furniture or where you would have to stretch or bend awkwardly to reach the outlets.
• Nearby Appliances: It's best to mount the power strip close to the devices it will power. This minimizes the need for extension cords, which can create tripping hazards and reduce the efficiency of electrical conduction.

• Off the Floor:Whenever possible, mount the power strip off the floor. This reduces the risk of damage from foot traffic, vacuum cleaners, and potential water spills. Elevated positions, like walls, the underside of a desk, or along the back of a workbench, are typically ideal.
• Ventilation:Power strips should be placed in areas with good airflow to prevent overheating. Avoid enclosed spaces like cabinets or drawers unless they are ventilated.
• Moisture and Heat Sources: Avoid areas where the power strip could be exposed to moisture (like near sinks or humidifiers) or excessive heat (such as near heaters or stoves). These conditions can increase the risk of electrical hazards.

Step-by-Step Guide to Mount a Power Strip

Here's a straightforward, step-by-step guide to help you mount your power strip effectively:

1. Choose the Location: Refer to the criteria mentioned above to select the best place for your power strip. Ensure it's accessible, away from moisture and heat sources, and provides good cable management options. Ideal spots include underneath desks or on walls near workstations.
2. Gather Your Tools and Materials: Gather the tools needed for installation. You will typically need a screwdriver, screws (check if they come with your power strip or if you need specific types), a drill if you are mounting to a wall, and possibly wall anchors for drywall installations.

Alternatively, you can opt for adhesive mounting for a tool-free installation that avoids damage to walls. The Anker 524 Power Strip, for instance, comes with a strong adhesive pad for a convenient and easy setup on smooth surfaces.

3. Prepare the Mounting Area:Clean the surface where you plan to mount the power strip with a dry cloth. If mounting on a wall, you might want to use a stud finder to locate studs for a more secure fit. Mark the points where the screws or adhesive will go.
4. Position the Power Strip:Most power strips come with mounting holes on the back for screws. Hold the power strip against the mounting surface and align it with your marks. Use a level to ensure it's straight.
5. Attach the Power Strip:

• For Screw Mounting: Drill pilot holes at the marks you've made. Be sure the holes are slightly smaller than the screws you will use. If using wall anchors, insert them into the pilot holes. Place the power strip back against the surface, lining up the holes with your pilot holes or anchors, and screw it into place, ensuring that it is tight and secure.
• For Adhesive Mounting:If using an adhesive pad like with the Anker 524 Power Strip, remove the protective film from the adhesive pad and press the power strip firmly against the prepared surface. Hold it in place for about 30 seconds to ensure strong adhesion and wait 24 hours before connecting devices.

6. Test the Mount: Gently pull on the power strip to ensure it is firmly attached to the wall or surface, regardless of the mounting method. Avoid using excessive force, which could damage the strip or the mounting surface.
7. Organize the Cables:Once the power strip is mounted, connect your devices. Use cable ties or clips to neatly organize and secure the wires, keeping them out of walkways and other areas where they might cause tripping hazards.

Tips and Tricks for Secure Mounting

When it comes to mounting a power strip, ensuring it is securely attached is crucial for both safety and functionality. Here are some tips and tricks to help you mount your power strip securely:

• Check Weight Capacity:Before mounting, ensure the chosen method (screws or adhesive) can handle the weight of the power strip and the plugged-in devices. Adhesives might not be suitable for heavy-duty use, especially if the power strip will support multiple or heavier adapters.
• Use the Right Tools:For a more secure installation, using the right tools is crucial. A reliable drill and the correct size drill bits can make a difference, especially when dealing with tough surfaces like concrete or brick.
• Select Appropriate Fasteners:If using screws, choose those appropriate for the material of your mounting surface. For drywall, use anchors; for wooden surfaces, wood screws are best; and for masonry, consider using masonry screws with appropriate wall plugs.
• Check for Electrical Wiring:Before drilling into walls, always use a stud finder that can detect electrical wires. Accidentally drilling into wiring can cause serious electrical hazards and damage.
• Use Cable Management Systems: To prevent accidental disconnections and maintain an organized appearance, use cable sleeves, clips, or ties. This helps manage the cable lengths and keeps them neatly aligned, reducing the risk of pulling or tripping over loose cords.

Conclusion

Mounting a power strip correctly is crucial for both safety and convenience. Throughout this guide, we've explored the optimal locations for power strips, detailed the steps on how to mount a power strip securely, and offered practical advice to enhance stability and accessibility. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your power strip not only serves its purpose efficiently but also contributes to a safer and more organized living or workspace.

FAQs

How to mount power strip to wall without screws?

You can mount a power strip to a wall without screws using adhesive hooks or mounting tape specifically designed for heavy-duty applications. Ensure the surface is clean and dry before applying the adhesive and allow it to cure fully before hanging the power strip.

Where should you not place a power strip?

Avoid placing a power strip in areas prone to moisture or heat, such as near sinks, heaters, or radiators, as this can pose a safety hazard. Additionally, avoid placing power strips in cramped or enclosed spaces where airflow is restricted, as this can lead to overheating.

Is it safe to mount a power strip under a desk?

It is generally safe to mount a power strip under a desk as long as it is securely attached, and the electrical cords are arranged to prevent damage or disconnection. Ensure that the power strip is not overloaded and that there is adequate airflow around it to prevent overheating. Also, check that the mounting surface and method are sturdy enough to support the weight of the power strip and any connected devices.