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Safe Handling of the AC/DC Power Adapters — Desktop & Wall-Mount - Part 8: "Do Not Leave It Plugged In"
AC/DC Power Adapters — Desktop & Wall-Mount safety handling is introduced here. The 8th installment features “Don't leave it plugged in.” It explains the risks of leaving the AC/DC Power Adapters — Desktop & Wall-Mount plugged in and how to use it properly along with countermeasures.
AC/DC Power Adapters — Desktop & Wall-Mount - Do not leave it plugged in
Some of the items submitted for investigation by customers are visibly dirty, and from the nature of the dirt, the usage environment of the Products can be inferred. For example, small scratches and paint stains may indicate that it was used at an industrial worksite. If animal hair is attached, as discussed in the previous article "Don’t Get It Wet," it could suggest it was placed in a room corner or near a pet’s bed... While it’s natural for the surface to get dirty with prolonged use, so signs of usage are not usually a concern, there's one specific type of dirtiness that you should be cautious about. That is the space between the AC plug blades.
Occasionally covered on TV news programs, if the dirt between the AC blades is left unaddressed, there’s a risk of what's called a “tracking phenomenon.” The "tracking phenomenon" occurs when dust or moisture accumulates between the always-plugged AC plug blades, eventually becoming carbonized and leading to a current flow that may cause a fire. This is explained in more detail in issue 14 of Adapter NEWS, "Tracking Prevention for AC/DC Power Adapters — Desktop & Wall-Mount."
To prevent fires caused by the “tracking phenomenon” between AC plug blades, the Tokyo Fire Department recommends the following:
1. Do not leave power plugs (AC plug blades) plugged in constantly; unplug them when not in use
2. Regularly inspect plugs that have been left plugged in for a long time, clean them with a dry cloth, and replace them if there are signs of overheating or other issues
3. Pay extra attention to plugs used in dusty or humid environments, or those hidden behind furniture
“I'd love to see a phoenix, but…”
It’s too late once a fire has started! We kindly ask our customers to occasionally unplug any AC/DC Power Adapters — Desktop & Wall-Mount left in the outlet and check that there’s no dust accumulated between the AC blades, ensuring long-term safe usage.