Power Strips: Overload Protection Becomes Mandatory in 2025
Why Choose Products with Overload Protection? You Should Pay Attention to the Major Upgrade of China's New National Standard for Household Power Strips
Starting from August 1, 2025, the new mandatory national standard GB 2099.72024 "Safety Technical Specification for household and similar use power strip sockets" will come into effect, replacing the previous recommended standard GB/T 2099.7-2015. This means that household sockets will be upgraded from "basic electrical accessories" to all-round safety devices that integrate intelligent protection, waterproof classification, structural design, and certification requirements.
One of the most significant changes is the first mandatory requirement for ordinary power strip sockets to be equipped with overload protection devices, which can immediately detect excessive current and automatically cut off the power supply. Prevent fire risks caused by long-term high loads and provide stronger protection for electrical safety in homes and workplaces. The new national standard policy is not merely about regulation; it also places great emphasis on the safety design of every power strip in your home.
Why is a Circuit Breaker so Crucial?
Overloading is the most common cause of accidents with household power strips, especially when high-power appliances are used simultaneously, the risks of overheating, electric shock and fire increase significantly. The new standard requires the configuration of an overload protector to automatically cut off the power supply of the extension cord when the current exceeds the standard, protecting the safety of family members and property. This transformation has enhanced the electrical safety of every household and office, meeting the demands of modern smart homes.
Key Differences Between the Old and New Standards (Summary Table)
| Key Differences Between the Old and New Standards (Summary) | ||
|---|---|---|
| Item | GB 2099.7–2024 (New Standard) | GB/T 2099.7–2015 (Old Standard) |
| Legal Nature | Mandatory GB standard | Recommended GB/T standard |
| Overcurrent Protection | Required for power strips with 4+ outlets | Not required |
| Installation Location | Adds rules for furniture-mounted or desktop sockets | No clear requirement |
| Wire Entry Method | Adds modular box wiring test methods | No clear requirement |
| Outdoor Socket Types | Adds: 1. e-bike charging sockets (waterproof, dustproof); 2. EV charging sockets (sunproof, anti-corrosion, anti-leakage) | No distinction for outdoor use |
| Plug Cable Sleeving | Requires GB 1002–2024 compliant plugs with cable sheath | No such requirement |
| Testing Methods | Adds IPX7 waterproofing, overcharge, short-circuit, glow-wire tests | No dedicated waterproof/overcharge testing |
| Flame Retardant | Materials require 30s self-extinguishing, recommended for PC/ABS | Not required |
| Label | Must mark voltage, current, power, warnings, usage category | Only fixed sockets require marking |
| International | Alignment Aligns with IEC 62599 & IEC 60309 | Based on older IEC references |
Source: 充電頭網
Key Highlights of the New Standard:
- • Clear product classification:Adds EV/e-bike types with label and usage limits
- • Mandatory overload protection: All 4-outlet+ power strips must include it
- • Improved structural safety: Must pass IP rating, impact, crush and salt spray tests
- • Enhanced outdoor safety: Stronger waterproofing, anti-sunlight, and anti-leakage specs
- • Clear external markings: Maximum wattage, safety warnings, and permitted use zones
Why Overload Protection Is Essential
One of the most common causes of household electrical fires is overloading power strips. When multiple high-power appliances (microwaves, heaters, etc.) are plugged into one strip, the wires can overheat, melt, or even ignite.
The new standard addresses this by mandating built-in overload protection that automatically trips and cuts off power when unsafe conditions occur.
KUOYUH 15 Series – Compact, Reliable Overload Protection
As a global leader in thermal circuit breaker technology, KUOYUH 15 series overload protection is a compact, precise, and reliable solution to meet the new standard's safety requirements.
OEMs and power strip brands can seamlessly integrate the KUOYUH 15 Series to ensure compliance while enhancing product reliability and safety.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Compact Size | Smaller than KUOYUH 88 series; ideal for slim power strips and USB outlets |
| Accurate Trip Mechanism | Quickly trips under overload, then manual reset per standard requirements |
| Global Certifications | Certified under UL, TUV, and CCC standards |
| Versatile Applications | Suitable for home electronics, furniture outlets, USB power hubs, office use, and more |
OEMs and power strip brands can seamlessly integrate the KUOYUH 15 Series to ensure compliance while enhancing product reliability and safety.
Buying Tips During the Transition Period
Until the standard becomes mandatory in mid-2025, we recommend:
- • Choosing products labeled GB 2099.7–2024
- • Ensuring overload protectors are built-in (such as KUOYUH 15 Series)
- • Looking for UL / TUV / CCC certification
- • Confirming labels include wattage, warnings, and permitted usage zones
