Installing LED tube battens in garage

[redbarnman]

Having multiple extension leads is not a great idea for a long term installation. It would not cost too much to get a local electrician in to do a bit of fixed wiring and put in a new socket. LED's present a different type of load than fluorescents, they have very high transient inrush current every time they switch on - that's not when you turn on the light switch but 50 times per second. Trailing edge dimmers were introduced so that you are only turning off a low current rather than trying to control a high transient current. That high inrush current can also cause radio interference. So with LED's all connectors, sockets and plugs need to have very good low resistance electrical contacts/connections and the chances are that your old socket has oxidised contacts and perhaps a loose terminal screw. Ether way get it replaced before it catches fire. I once came across a demonstration board showing 13 different ways of incorrectly wiring up a 13A plug so take care and do it properly.

 

[Brian trousers]

Thanks redbarnman. Since I changed the extension with the burnt plug going to the outlet, the crackling noise from the outlet has stopped and all the lights appear to work ok.

I intend to get the set-up installed properly by an electrician when I can, but in the mean time, would it be advisable to unplug everything when I'm not in the garage?

 

[redbarnman]

Better to leave it connected and undisturbed, turning off the socket will isolate the circuit just as effectively