When installing electrical equipment at home or at work, it is crucial to choose the right cord.
That said, a significant number of people are unaware that using the wrong cord can lead to ineffective power delivery, overheating, or risky events such as fires.
However, with so many options of extension cords available, it can be challenging to select the one that best meets your requirements.
Therefore, it’s essential to consider the factors stated below before choosing an extension cord. Realizing these factors and extension cords’ features can foster robust performance and sound safety practices.
By keeping utility and safety in mind, this guide will help you in choosing the best extension cord for your needs.
1. Determine the Right Length
The first step to choosing the right extension cords is to determine the right length for both convenience and safety.
Extension cords that are excessively long can bring about a voltage drop, subsequently decreasing the effectiveness of your device, while very short cords might mandate risky modifications.
Thus, before making a purchase, ensure you measure the distance from the power source to the area where the device will be set up.
As a rule of thumb, going for a slightly longer cord is advisable to prevent strain on the plug or stretched too tightly. However, it is important not to buy a very long extension cord to avoid entangling and falling.
2. Understand the Cord Gauge
The gauge of the extension cord is linked to the thickness of the wire within it, and this defines the amount of current that it is able to handle. Thicker wires that can deal with greater power are denoted by lower gauge numbers.
It is advised to use a 12-gauge cord for heavy-duty tools and appliances, while a 14- or 16-gauge cord is appropriate for powering lamps or small electronics for light-duty tasks.
Make sure to always assess the power requirements of your equipment so you can choose the correct gauge and avoid overheating or causing damage to your devices.
3. Choose among Indoor or Outdoor Cords
Extension cords are purposefully made for indoor and outdoor use. For household electronics, indoor cords are usually thinner and more delicate.
In contrast, cords designed for outdoor use are stronger and possess thicker insulation to protect against exposure to factors like moisture, UV rays, and severe temperatures.
When working outside, always seek cables labeled “outdoor use,” as these are sturdier and more suitable for harsh environments.
4. Check the Cord’s Amperage Rating
Every extension cord has a rating for amperage, symbolizing the amount of current that can securely move through it. This is usually seen on either the packaging or the electric cords.
Correspond the amperage rating of the cord to the power required by your appliance or tool.
For example, devices that require higher power, like air conditioners or space heaters, require cords that have higher amperage ratings.
Surpassing this rating might cause overheating, so verifying the requirements before connecting heavy-duty equipment is essential.
5. Pay Attention to Plug Type
Extension cords differ in the kind of plugs they have to match multiple outlet types and power needs.
For the most part, cords come with the standard two-prong or three-prong plugs, but if you need to power several devices, you can consider a cord with multiple outlets.
Certain outdoor power cords might have three-prong grounded plugs for increased safety, particularly during use with heavy equipment.
In addition, angled plugs can assist in fitting narrow spaces and protecting against damage if the cord gets tugged. Ensure that the plug conforms to your specific needs.
6. Look for Safety Features
Safety ought to be a top concern when selecting an extension cord. Cords with built-in safety elements such as surge protection are critical for the defense of sensitive electronics against power surges.
Similarly, cords with ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCI) are fantastic for outdoor or moist sites because they automatically turn off power if they sense an electrical problem.
In addition, specific cords are manufactured with childproof caps or tamper-resistant outlets, rendering them a safer choice for homes with children.
7. Consider the Flexibility and Durability of the Cord
Extension cords come in a wide array of qualities, ranging from durability to flexibility. For example, cords crafted for industrial settings or outdoor environments frequently feature thicker, more resilient insulation.
Moving on, to find an extension cord that can be bent and coiled without damage, you should seek one marked as “flexible.” Cords covered in rubber or vinyl provide higher flexibility and durability, making them ideal for heavy lifting, frequent use, and usage in adverse weather conditions.
8. Pick a Cord with the Right Certifications
Finally, confirm that the extension cord you select has the required safety certifications. Thus, seek cables that adhere to safety regulations established by reputable agencies like the National Electrical Code (NEC).
It gives you peace of mind to use a certified cord at home or at work since it lowers the chance of electric shock, fire, and other hazards.
Conclusion
While selecting the appropriate extension cable may seem like a small matter, it is essential to preserve the effectiveness and security of your electrical system.
You can make sure that your extension cable satisfies the needs of your gadgets while avoiding risks by taking into account elements like length, gauge, amperage, plug type, and safety features.
Furthermore, avoid compromising on quality by always giving preference to cables with the appropriate certifications.
A suitable extension cable will shield you and your house from electrical hazards while also enhancing the performance of your appliances and tools.
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