Outlet Extenders & Plug Adapters (91 items found)

Setting up your home office or organizing your living space can be exciting, but it often comes with the challenge of different electrical outlets and limited plug availability. Plug adapters allow you to connect your electronic devices to outlets with different socket types, while outlet extenders expand the number of available sockets from a single outlet. Learn to better understand these tools at Ace Hardware, so you can avoid hassle and ensure your devices are ready to use.

What Are Outlet Extenders?

Outlet extenders, also known as tap outlets or wall taps, are devices that expand the number of available sockets from a single electrical outlet, not unlike extension cords. They are particularly useful in areas where you need to plug in multiple devices but have limited outlets. These compact and lightweight devices enhance accessibility and safety, making them a practical solution for managing your electrical needs at home.

Are Plug Adapters and Wall Taps the Same?

Plug adapters are essential devices that allow you to connect your electronic devices to outlets with different socket types. They come in handy when you have devices with plugs that don't match the sockets available in your home. With features like surge protection and compact designs, plug adapters ensure your devices are always ready to use, making them a practical solution for managing your electrical needs at home.

While plug adapters ensure compatibility between different plug types, outlet extenders expand the number of sockets from a single outlet. Both enhance accessibility and safety but serve different purposes in managing your electrical needs.

How to Choose Outlet Splitters and Plug Adapters

Whether you need a plug adapter or outlet splitter, there are a few things to consider before making your purchase.

• Total current use (amps): Ensure the adapter has a high enough amp rating for your devices, especially for high-powered appliances. Most outlet adapters are rated at 15 or 20 amps, sufficient for general devices, but ensure your splitter can handle higher-powered appliances like washing machines and dishwashers.
• Single or multi-plug adapters: Choose a multi-plug adapter with the right number of outlets to avoid chaining splitters together, or single adapters for specific use cases like grounded outlet adapters.
• Size and shape: Select an adapter that fits with the plugs you'll be using. Cube shapes are compact, while strip formats accommodate larger plugs.
• Surge protectors and switches: Opt for adapters with built-in surge protection to safeguard your devices from electrical surges. Choose adapters with switches to easily cut off currents when your devices aren't in use, enhancing safety and energy efficiency.
• Grounded vs. polarized outlet adapters: Match the adapter to your home's wiring, choosing between polarized (two holes) and grounded (three holes) designs.
• Outdoor Plug Adapters: We also stock outlet adapters rated for outdoor use, designed to withstand various weather conditions. These adapters are protected from the elements to ensure safety and reliability no matter the environment.
• Smart outlets and adapters: Enhance convenience and efficiency with smart devices that allow remote control, energy monitoring, and integration with smart home systems.

Shop Multi-Plug Adapters Near You at Ace Hardware

When you're looking to add a few more outlets to a room, our range of multi-plug adapters has the outlet splitters you're looking for. Browse our selection of outlet converters and adapters near you, or shop our selection online for fast shipping.  You can also find other power strips essentials like power cords and cord reels.