We all have at least one extension cord, but is it the right one, or even the best one, for what you need it for? To the average consumer, an extension cord is an extension cord. Most of us dont understand the differences in things like wire gauge (size) or environment (indoor or outdoor or both), or purpose (extended use for a power tool or other device that will be left on for long periods of time, or for short-term use such as running a vacuum cleaner, or shop-vac). Another thing consumers fail to realize is that regardless of the gauge or rating of the cord, an extension cord is always a temporary solution. Extension cords were never meant to be used as a long-term extension of your households electrical system. If you dont have an outlet where you need it, youre better off, in the long run, having a licensed electrician install another outlet and the proper connections to run whatever appliance you need to run in that location. What is an extension cord? An extension cord is usually simply a cord with a plug on one end and an outlet on the other. Depending on the gauge of the cord, it may or may not have wires of a thick enough gauge to carry the full current (usually 15 amps) that a homes main electrical circuit is rated for, at least not for long-term use. Wire gauge matters Not all extension cords can be used for all purposes. There are generally three kinds of extension cords light or occasional use, medium to frequent use, and heavy duty or rugged. These terms refer to the cords wire gauge. The gauge of wire indicates whether the cord can be used for heavy-duty or continuous use, such as power tools, computers, heaters etc., and not necessarily whether it can be used indoors or outdoors, although most heavy duty extension cords tend to be outdoor rated cords. Gauge numbers can be confusing. The larger the gauge number, the smaller the cords actual gauge. Most common gauges are American Wire Gauge (AWG) AWG 16, AWG 14, AWG 12, AWG 10, and AWG 8. The lower the number, the thicker the wire, or bundle of wire, and the thicker the wire, the more watts you can expect to power through it. So a 10-12 gauge cord would be a heavier duty cord than a 16-gauge cord, which would be a lightweight cord typically used for less energy demanding applications. Indoor vs. Outdoor Extension Cords Outdoor extension cords have tough covers made from rubber, plastic, or vinyl. Using indoor extension cords outdoors can lead to overheating, electrocution, cord failure, or fire. So what should you know before you buy? Know what you intend to use the cord for and whether you intend to use it indoors or outdoors. Occasional use cords. Occasional use cords are very lightweight, light gauge 16-gauge extension cords. Theyre suitable for light duty indoor applications, like running holiday lights, portable fans, your electric hedge trimmers, or your [...] The post Things You Should Know Before Buying an Extension Cord appeared first on Homes.com.
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