Extension Leads
Extension Leads: Fixed, High-Visibility, Braided & 3-Phase Options for Tradespeople
Picking an extension lead isn't just about length — the wrong current rating or IP protection can trip a job up fast, whether that's a nuisance-tripping RCD or a lead that can't handle outdoor exposure. This range spans fixed indoor leads, high-visibility site cords, braided IP66/IP67 outdoor leads, and 3-phase leads up to 63A. For quick switchboard setups, an RCD-protected 2m extension lead adds safety switching most standard cords skip, and for wet areas it's worth checking what IP rating an outdoor extension lead needs.
What's in This Range
- Standard fixed leads — the 15m 10mm extension lead covers everyday indoor runs on fit-outs and office renovations.
- High-visibility site leads — the 25m yellow high-visibility extension lead keeps long outdoor runs easy to spot.
- Braided IP66 outdoor leads — the 25m braided IP66 extension lead holds up against weather and abrasion.
- 32A 3-phase leads — the 20m 32A 5-pin extension lead supplies tools drawing beyond a standard 10A circuit.
- 63A CEE industrial leads — the 15m 63A CEE extension lead is IP67-rated for temporary supply to larger plant.
- Auto-retracting reels — the 15m 4-outlet auto-retracting lead reel stores itself between uses, cutting trip hazards.
Who Uses This
Electrical contractors reach for fixed and high-visibility leads on commercial fit-outs, school upgrades, and retail refurbishments. Braided IP66 leads see heavier use on civil works, while 32A and 63A 3-phase leads turn up around switchboard upgrades and temporary event installations. Auto-retracting reels suit workshops where leads get packed away often.
Extension Leads — Common Questions
How do I choose the right extension lead length and current rating?
Match the lead to the distance and round up rather than daisy-chaining two leads, which adds resistance and voltage drop. A compact 2m extension lead suits short runs near a power board, while power tools should move up from a standard 10A cord to 15A or 3-phase.
What current rating do I need for tools drawing more than a standard 10A lead?
Compressors and higher-draw tools can overload a 10A cord, tripping breakers or overheating the lead. A 20A IP66 extension lead gives more headroom, and anything beyond that should step up to a 32A or 63A 3-phase lead rather than running smaller leads in parallel.
Are auto-retracting extension lead reels reliable enough for daily site use?
Yes, provided the reel matches the load — they're built around the same cable gauge and rating as fixed leads, wound onto a spring-loaded drum. Fully unwind the reel under heavier loads, since coiled cable retains heat and can derate its safe current capacity. This guide on retractable extension lead reels covers what to check before relying on one full-time.
Why Choose SCHNAP
- Lead lengths stocked from 2m through to 50m, covering short power board runs and long site runs.
- Trusted brands including Legrand and PowerSafe, with braided IP66 and IP67-rated options for outdoor exposure.
- Current ratings from standard 10A through to 63A 5-pin CEE, plus auto-retracting reels.
For jobs pulling higher loads across multiple phases, our guide to choosing a 3-phase extension lead breaks down plug types and ratings. Browse the range above, or get in touch for trade pricing.
