Extension cords are a great way to extend power from outlets without having to run new wiring. Some extension cords have special features that make them preferable over others depending on what you need, so it’s important to know which one is best for your needs. Extension cord types include indoor and outdoor use, low voltage or high voltage, heavy duty or light duty. You can also choose between grounded or ungrounded versions of the same type of extension cord – these are often used in different environments where there may be more risk of electrical shocks.
The larger the gauge, the more power it can carry. This means that if you need a long cord that has high-wattage requirements, then go with 14 or 12-gauge wire. For most home use applications, 16-gauge wire will suffice and be cheaper than higher gauges. Next up is length of cable: when buying an extension cord always remember to measure how far away from an outlet you’ll be plugging it in so there’s enough slack on either.
What to consider before buying a large extension cord?
Buying an extension cord can be a confusing task because there are so many options to choose from. There are indoor and outdoor cords, heavy duty or lightweight, long or short. There is even the question of whether you want grounded plugs for safety reasons.
- The first thing you should do before buying any extension cord is asking yourself if it will be used indoors or outdoors. If you plan on using your cord outside, then it might need to be waterproof with additional insulation. You also need to consider how much power your device needs in order to ensure that the right length of cable has been purchased for your use case scenario. Finally, make sure to buy one with plug type that matches what your appliance requires
- Be sure the cord is rated for outdoor use before using it outside or in damp areas like basements or near water sources.
- Never coil up an extension cord on top of itself because this can lead to kinks and breakages which could cause a fire hazard.
- If possible, purchase only three-wire grounded extension cords because they’re safer than two wire ones
Extension cords are an essential part of many homes. They provide power to our homes when we need it most, but can be dangerous if not used properly.
