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I have a GFCI outlet in my kitchen where I would like to plug in more than two things. I was thinking I could just add a multi-outlet adapter to one of the outlets, or maybe a short 1->3 plug extension cord for my purposes. I'm assuming this is probably frowned upon, but would it be functional?
Specifically right now in the GFCI outlet we have a bottle warmer plugged in; I would like to add to it a small fish take filter, LED light, and a fish tank heater.
You can absolutely plug in an extension cord to the GFCI outlet, and as long as the GFCI outlet was wired correctly, the GFCI protection extends to all the devices plugged into it.
However, I would advise you to stay away from this kind of multi outlet adapter, since it might cover the GFCI buttons making it harder to test and reset:
I suggest a side outlet tap such as the following product. Unlike the previous answer that suggested a six outlet cover with the screw in the middle, the project I provide below would actually fit into a Decora-style receptacle (outlet) such as a GFCI. The GFCI protection would extend to the devices that are connected.
The distance between the 2 sockets of a GFCI outlet are different then for a plain outlet, so a multi-plug adaptor won't fit.
Legal in your house. Not a business. Is it safe? Not necessarily. That's considered temporary. Has nothing to do with common sense as someone put as an answer. You are changing the design of the electrical engineer's plan. If he wanted six outlets there, he/she would have designed six there.
You decide to plug in two heaters, it's melting and GFC is a false security.
Extension cords in a business are not legal because it's temporary use only. That means unplugged and wound up. Christmas tree lights are not an exception.
Fire inspector...
GFCI outlets (and breakers) are required to be tested monthly. Not everyone does that, but nonetheless, it is a requirement if you read the instructions that came with them. So covering the Test and Reset buttons with an adapter will become a burdensome step, likely leading to the tests NOT being performed as required. Out of sight, out of mind.
I use a power strip. Yes, it can get wet on a kitchen counter, but... it's plugged into a GFCI!
Also; yes, there are NEWER requirements for spacing of receptacles that might make this unnecessary, but that was not always the case. In my house built in 1910, there was only one receptacle for 15 linear feet of counter space.
I have 2 concerns: 1) Most kitchens appliances operate at about 15 amperes. In some cases they may draw a couple extra on startup, and back off when they reach their potential. If too many appliances start at the same time?? 2) Kitchen receptacles are split. Does the multi-plug tap connect the top and bottom back together again? Then there is the GFI function? Just to be safe, I would just plug the coffee grinder elsewhere, or run another 12/3 line to the panel.
