What is the purpose of extension cord?

An extension cord is used to connect an electrical cord to the outlet if the main cable falls short. Extension cords vary in length and type of outlet plug. They can be anywhere in length from two feet to as long as one hundred feet. It's important to use the right cord size for the job you need.

What are the benefits of making an extension cord?

Should you use extension cords?

Using extension cords properly is critical to your safety. With continuous use over time, an extension cord can rapidly deteriorate, creating a potentially dangerous electric shock or fire hazard.

How do you use an extension cord?

What should not be plugged into an extension cord?

Extension Cords Explained

Does extension cord use more electricity?

An appliance plugged in using an extension cord will use more electricity than if it was just plugged into the wall. For small items, this increase is negligible, but it will add up over time for more significant things.

Can I plug fridge into extension cord?

Using a grounded extension cord with a three-prong plug is always the best choice for major appliances including refrigerators. When it comes to amperage, check the owner's manual for your refrigerator to determine the amperage rating and then choose an extension cord with an equivalent rating.

How long can you use an extension cord?

National Electrical Code (NEC) does not allow extension cords in lieu of permanent wiring (NEC 400.8(1) – 2014 Version). General rule– if equipment is powered from an extension cord for more than 30 days, permanent solutions should be installed.

What is the difference between a power cord and an extension cord?

However, the main difference between the two lies in the purpose: If you want to multiply the number of electrical outlets from a single source, use a power strip. If you want to stretch out a power source towards a distant appliance, use an extension cord.

How do I know if my extension cord is overloaded?

What is the disadvantage of using extension wires?

Extension cords can overheat and cause fires when used improperly. Overheating is usually caused by overloading or connecting appliances that consume more watts than the cord can handle. Damaged extension cords can also cause fires. Extension cords should only be used temporarily.

What are the different types of extension cords?

Can a TV be plugged into a power strip?

Don't forget about TVs, lamps, and other household items. All these items plugged into a power strip can put stress on it. Most people probably don't give much thought to how many devices are plugged in at any given time.

What kind of extension cord do I need?

Look for cords that can handle 15 amps

We recommend skipping indoor/outdoor extension cords rated for 10 A or 13 A. Instead, get one rated for at least 15 A. (If the cord doesn't list a maximum amperage, you should skip it entirely.)

What counts as an extension cord?

Extension-cord definition

(electronics) An electrical cord with a plug one end, and a single socket or a multi-port socket at the other end, used for powering one or more devices at a distance, too far from the wall outlet to be reached by the normal cords of the device or devices. (slang: trip cord).

Is it OK to leave extension cord outside?

Although outdoor extension cords are tough, you still must not leave them outside for more than a day or two. Leaving this outside for an extended period will make your cord susceptible to breaking down, which can result in sparking, fire, and shock.

Is it OK to use an extension cord for a lamp?

It's possible to use 16-gauge extension cords to rewire table and floor lamps. The cord should be flexible and without twists and pinches. If it is old, discolored, stiff or damaged in any way, throw it away.

Are extension cords safe in the rain?

Water is a good conductor of electricity; therefore, any contact with rainwater could lead to electric shock or electrocution. It could also damage the cord. It is imperative to shield your extension cord from Rain whenever you are using it outdoors to prevent these hazards.

Can you plug microwave into extension cord?

We strongly recommend that an extension cord not be used with a microwave due to potential safety hazards under certain conditions. Your microwave should be plugged into its own properly grounded, dedicated electrical outlet to prevent the flickering of the lights, blowing of a fuse or tripping of a circuit breaker.

Why do some appliances say not to use an extension cord?

Certain high wattage appliances should not use an extension cord when possible (check the owner's manual). Using an extension cord on these appliances could cause excessive heat and voltage drop, this could damage the appliance or motor.

Is it safe to use an extension cord for a washing machine?

Washing machines draw a large amount of electrical current to operate. Most user manuals will indicate that using an extension cord for a large appliance such as a washing machine is not advisable. Generally speaking, using an extension cord for your washing machine should be avoided.

How much electricity does a TV use?

Modern TVs use, on average, 58.6 watts when in On mode and 1.3 watts in standby mode. The power consumption of modern TVs ranges from 10W to 117W (0.5W to 3W on standby). On average, TVs consume 106.9 kWh of electricity per year, costing $16.04 annually to run in the US.

Which extension cord is best?

How many devices can I plug into one outlet?

Never plug more than two appliances into an outlet at once or “piggyback” extra appliances on extension cords or wall outlets. Use only outlets designed to handle multiple plugs. Know the amount of power you're placing on an outlet or circuit. Some recommend each outlet or circuit should not exceed 1,500 watts.

How much can you plug into an extension cord?

As the cord gets longer, the current carrying capacity of the cord gets lower. For example, a 16 gauge extension cord less than 50 feet in length can power a 1625 watt (W) appliance. A 16 gauge cord that is longer than 50 feet in length can only power an appliance up to 1250W.