A cube tap is a compact and versatile solution for anyone seeking to maximize limited outlet space. Perfect for homes, offices, and travel, this handy device lets you power multiple electronics from a single socket, reducing clutter and boosting convenience. Discover how a cube tap can simplify your daily life, improve organization, and keep your essential devices powered up, wherever you are.
Cube Tap Buyer’s Guide
Cube Tap Styles & Comparison Table
| Style/Type | Color Options | No. of Outlets | Grounding | Swivel/Fixed | Max Amperage | Indoor/Outdoor | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Cube Tap | White, Black | 3 | Yes | Fixed | 15A | Indoor | Classic compact design |
| Swivel Triple Cube Tap | White | 3 | Yes | Swivel | 15A | Indoor | Plugs rotate to fit tight spaces |
| Heavy-Duty Triple Tap | Black | 3 | Yes | Fixed | 15A+ | Indoor | Durable for gear/equipment |
Everyday Usage of a Cube Tap
What Is a Cube Tap for?
A cube tap is a compact adapter that plugs into a single wall outlet and transforms it into multiple sockets—typically three grounded outlets. This device is especially practical in homes, offices, studios, workshops, classrooms, or anywhere you need to power multiple devices but have limited outlets.
Typical Uses
- Home: Plug in lamps, chargers, and small appliances in one spot.
- Workspaces: Expand a single outlet for computers, printers, and monitors.
- Entertainment Centers: Connect TVs, sound systems, and streaming devices.
- Photography/Film Studio: Power multiple lights or equipment with a single tap.
Cube taps are meant for indoor use and are engineered to support standard 125V/15A North American electrical outlets. They are not designed for outdoor or high-moisture locations.
Benefits of Using a Cube Tap
Space-Saving Design
- Compactness: The cube shape fits neatly in tight spaces and behind furniture, allowing you to maximize outlet usage without bulky extension cords.
- Portability: Lightweight and small, it can easily fit in a tool kit, carry-on bag, or gear backpack—ideal for travel or mobile work.
Increased Outlet Capacity
- Instantly triple your available outlets, allowing more devices in one location.
- No need to swap plugs or unplug devices frequently.
Grounded Protection
- Most modern cube taps include grounding for three-prong plugs, enhancing safety for you and your equipment.
- Compliant with national and international safety standards (look for cCSAus, NOM, and UL marks).
Versatility
- Compatible with straight-blade plugs.
- Good for everyday gadgets and home office or AV setups.
- Suitable for various plug orientations with swivel models.
Safety Enhancements
- Designs now feature improvements that prevent partially unplugged prongs, reducing risk of electrical shock (in compliance with updated safety standards).
- Thermal and mechanical protections (varies by model).
How to Choose the Right Cube Tap
1. Outlet Capacity
- Standard: Most cube taps provide three outlets. Ensure this meets your needs.
- Plug Orientation: Some models accept only straight plugs, while some might handle bulky or angled adapters.
2. Safety & Certification
- Grounding: Always opt for cube taps with grounded (three-prong) outlets for modern electronics.
- Certifications: Look for approvals such as cCSAus, NOM, or UL for North American safety compliance.
3. Build Quality
- Sturdy plastic with quality internal contacts will last longer and maintain a firm grip in outlets.
- Swivel versus fixed body—swivel options help in tight or awkward spaces.
4. Indoor/Outdoor Use
- Most cube taps are rated for indoor use only. Using them outdoors, or in wet areas, is unsafe.
5. Color and Style
- White blends into most home decors; black is preferred in studios or professional settings.
- Check style—older “rectangular” taps are being replaced by true “cube” formats, which may affect fit in some setups.
6. Amperage
- Standard is 15A at 125V, enough for most home and office electronics. Do not exceed the total amperage rating.
7. Specialty Features
- Swivel Models: Allow rotating the outlets for better fit.
- Heavy-Duty Models: Built for higher-wattage equipment (within 15A rating).
- Low Profile: Fits behind furniture or in minimal space.
Tips for Choosing and Using Cube Taps
Best Practices Before Buying
- Count Your Devices: Determine the number of devices needing simultaneous power.
- Check for Overlap: Consider plug sizes—bulky power bricks may block adjacent outlets.
- Assess Power Needs: Add up the amperage/wattage of all items you’ll plug in.
Safety Advice
- Never Daisy-Chain: Don’t connect multiple cube taps or overload with power strips.
- Use Indoors Only: Avoid humid or outdoor areas to reduce electrical shock or fire risk.
- Inspect Regularly: Look for cracks, burns, or looseness; replace damaged units immediately.
Efficient Use
- Rotation: Swivel taps can help position plugs or adapters more efficiently.
- Furniture Gaps: Low-profile models help maintain outlets behind tight furniture.
- Label Outlets: In workspaces or classrooms, labeling helps manage shared resources.
Maintenance
- Wipe with a dry or very lightly damp cloth; avoid liquids near electrical contact points.
- Store in a cool, dry place—prolonged UV or heat exposure can degrade plastic.
Technical Comparison Table of Cube Tap Models
| Brand/Model | Max Amperage | Voltage | No. Outlets | Grounded | Swivel | Indoor/Outdoor | Plug Orientation | Color | Dimensions (Approx) | Certifications |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Leviton 692-W | 15A | 125V | 3 | Yes | No | Indoor | Straight blade | White | ~3″x3″x1.8″ | cCSAus, NOM |
| Leviton 3wire Black | 15A | 125V | 3 | Yes | No | Indoor | Straight blade | Black | 3″x3.9″x6.8″ (pk) | UL, cCSAus, NOM |
| GE 46845 White | 15A | 125V | 3 | Yes | No | Indoor | Straight blade | White | ~2.9″x2.7″x2″ | UL, CSA |
| Commercial Swivel | 15A | 125V | 3 | Yes | Yes | Indoor | Swivels | White | ~2.8″x3″x2″ | UL |
| GF 1482B/1382B | 15A | 125V | 3 | Yes | No | Indoor | Straight blade | Black | Compact, light | UL |
Dimensions may refer to packaging; check product spec for precise housing.
Pro Tips and Best Practices
1. Don’t Overload!
Sum up the maximum wattage (Amps x Volts) for all devices you’ll plug into the tap. For 15A at 125V, that’s a maximum safe load of 1875 Watts—never exceed this.
2. Avoid Plugging in High-Powered Devices
Don’t use cube taps for space heaters, hair dryers, microwaves, or other high-draw appliances on the same tap as sensitive electronics.
3. Use Only with Grounded Outlets
Plug a three-prong cube tap only into a properly grounded receptacle. Don’t bypass the ground prong.
4. Handle with Dry Hands Only
This reduces the risk of electric shock.
5. Test Fit Before Permanent Placement
Especially with furniture close to the wall, ensure the cube tap and all intended plugs fit in the available space without bending cords excessively.
6. Check for Certifications
Confirm product packaging is marked with recognized North American safety agency approvals. This ensures the tap meets electrical safety standards.
7. Label Heavy Loads
In a multi-user environment (offices, workshops, studios), label each tap and ensure users know not to overload it.
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Conclusion
A cube tap is a practical solution for expanding a single wall outlet into three grounded sockets without the clutter of extra cords or strips. Ideal for homes, offices, studios, and more, cube taps safely and efficiently maximize your available outlets if chosen and used wisely. Focus on safety certifications, build quality, and match the tap to your power needs. Regular inspection and adherence to best practices will offer you reliable and safe service for years.
FAQ
-
What is a cube tap used for?
A cube tap is used to convert a single wall outlet into three grounded sockets, enabling you to power multiple devices from one outlet. It’s perfect for areas with limited access to outlets or where you need to plug in several devices at once. -
Are cube taps safe to use?
Cube taps are safe when used correctly—indoors, within the rated amperage, and for the right types of devices. Always choose models with certifications like UL, CSA, or cCSAus and avoid overloading or daisy-chaining them with other adapters or strips. -
Can I use a cube tap outdoors or in the bathroom?
No. Most consumer cube taps are intended for indoor, dry locations only. Do not use them outside or in damp areas like bathrooms, as this may increase the risk of electrical shock or fire. -
Can I plug a power strip or surge protector into a cube tap?
While technically possible, it’s not recommended to connect multiple high-load devices or additional splitters, as this makes it easier to overload the circuit. Always monitor the total load to stay within 15A (1875W at 125V). -
Are there grounded and ungrounded versions of cube taps?
Yes, but most modern models support grounding for use with three-prong (grounded) plugs. Always pick a grounded cube tap for safety, especially when using with electronics or appliances with a ground prong. -
What’s the difference between a swivel and a fixed cube tap?
A swivel cube tap lets you rotate the direction of the outlets, which is useful in tight or awkward spaces. Fixed models have a single orientation. -
Will bulky chargers or adapters fit on a cube tap?
Bulky power adapters may partially block adjacent outlets on a cube tap. Consider a model with widely spaced outlets or use extension cords for large adapters. -
What electrical devices should NOT be used with a cube tap?
High-powered appliances such as space heaters, microwaves, refrigerators, and hair dryers should not be used with cube taps, especially in conjunction with other devices on the same tap, as this can easily exceed the safe current rating. -
How do I know if my cube tap is overloaded?
Calculate the combined wattage or amperage of devices plugged in; do not exceed the tap’s maximum rating (generally 15A or 1875W). Signs of overload include heat, discoloration, or circuits tripping. -
How long does a cube tap last?
With proper use and no overloads, a quality cube tap can last for many years. Replace immediately if you see any signs of cracking, loose contacts, overheating, or melted plastic.
Choose the right cube tap with confidence and safety—enjoy a more organized, efficient, and flexible approach to powering your home or workspace.