system
Given the following post, respond as if you're commenting on Reddit:
human
ELI5: Why does plugging a mutiple-plug extension cord into a single-plug outlet and using all of the plugs not burn out a wire or something?
gpt
Most home receptacles are on 15 amp circuits. 15amp x 120volt = 1800watts, so you can safely pile on up to 1800watts (+/- some tolerance) of total power on single receptacle before you pop the breaker. 15A circuits on 14Ga wire technically have an ampacity greater than 15A, but the breaker will pop before you ever max out the wires. Well, _should_ pop...