Extension cords are indispensable in my home. They give me the flexibility to use devices with short power cables wherever I want to use them when they can't reach an outlet. Whether I need extra slack to run a circular saw in my backyard or simply power up my PlayStation 5 on the far side of a room, these cords frequently come in clutch. But not every extension cord is created equal.
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Before you buy an extension cord there are three things you should always look for. These considerations are; how much power you need to draw, length the electricity needs to travel, and whether or not the cord is weatherproofed for outdoor use. Keep reading to see how all of these factors work together to make or break your experience.
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HUANCHAIN 100 FT 16 Gauge outdoor extension cord: was $33 now $27 @ Amazon
This hybrid extension cord can be used both indoors and outside. It has a 3-prong outlet with a 10 amp, 125 volts, watt power rating. It even comes with velcro packing so it's easy to wind up and store away after each use.
Every extension cord is rated for a maximum wattage or amperage. You'll first want to determine the total amperage required by the devices you plan to plug into it. That way you can buy an extension cord with a rating that accommodates or even exceeds that. If your device doesn't receive enough power this will hinder its performance.
It's crucial to match your wire's power rating to your equipment to ensure it functions not only properly, but safely too. You should almost never plug energy-hungry appliances into extension cords. That's because they draw large amounts of power that often exceed the rating of the average extension cord. Increased demands on a thinner cord can cause overheating, fires, or even damage to equipment.
Additionally, you'll want to buy a cord of the appropriate gauge. Gauge is the thickness of an extension cord's conductive wires. Thicker wires (lower gauge numbers like 12 or 10) can carry higher loads without overheating or dropping as much voltage. For heavy-duty uses (saws, generators, etc.) or delivering the full amount of power over longer distances, go with a lower gauge extension cord.
(Image credit: Southwire)
POWTECH 15 FT Heavy Duty 3 Prong 14 Gauge Indoor Extension Cord: $15 @ Amazon
You can power heavy-duty tools and major appliances with this 14-gauge extension cord. At just $15 you're paying $1 per foot of wire. It features an angled plug to sit tighter against your outlet. You can expect a maximum of Watts, 15 Amps, and 125V from this model.
The length of an extension cord determines far more than its reach. All the power an extension cord supplies decreases over longer distances because wire introduces a resistance. Resistance increases with the length of the cord, so the further electricity has to travel the lower the voltage will measure at the appliance.
Machines that receive too little voltage compensate for the lack of energy by drawing more current to accomplish their normal workload. That can overload and overheat the cord, which will potentially cause a fire. This is why it's important to consider the distance between your gadget and the intended power source and buy the right fit.
Opting for a longer cord than you think you need can provide added versatility and prevent you from needing to buy multiple cords. At the same time, a cord that's too long can both create unnecessary tripping hazards and underdeliver on amperage. For example, while a cord may provide 15 amps, that can change after the 25 or 50-foot distance mark and drop as low as 12 amps.
(Image credit: HUANCHAIN)
Southwire 50 FT Heavy Duty 3 Prong 12 Gauge Outdoor Extension Cord: was $44 now $33 @ Amazon
This hybrid extension cord is rated and UL-listed for indoor and outdoor use. It features a lighted end to let you know you have power to the end of the cord when you need it. The Vinyl jacket is moisture and abrasion-resistant and will resist prolonged exposure to sunlight.
Not all extension cords are suitable for outdoor use. Outdoor-rated cords are constructed with weather-resistant materials like rubber and vinyl for added durability. That's in addition to reinforced insulation and weatherproof connectors that help them withstand exposure to sunlight, moisture, and temperature changes. You should always opt for an extension cord specifically labeled for outdoor use when using electrical tools or appliances outside.
In general, it's better to spend a few dollars more to buy an overspecced extension cord rather than be underprepared. It might be more than you need for something light like a charger, but the stronger durability can come in handy if you need to use it with more demanding equipment down the line.
You should not use a device that draws a significant current with an extension cord. But if you must in an emergency, make sure it's a thick, short extension cord that provides a high amount of voltage to prevent motor or part damage and see proper performance. Even better, if it's versatile enough to work outside in a variety of conditions. By selecting the right extension cord for your needs, you can comfortably power your equipment knowing its parts won't be worn down or likely to cause a fire.
More from Tom's Guide
An extension pole is a versatile tool that serves a variety of purposes in both professional and household settings. Designed to extend the reach of the user, extension poles are commonly used in activities like painting, cleaning, and maintenance. They come in various lengths, materials, and designs, making them adaptable to numerous tasks. Here, we explore the primary uses of extension poles in detail.
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One of the most common uses of an extension pole is in painting and decorating. When painting ceilings or high walls, an extension pole allows you to apply paint without the need for ladders or scaffolding. The pole can be attached to paint rollers, enabling a smooth and even application over large areas. This not only speeds up the painting process but also ensures safety by reducing the need for constant climbing. For detailed work, such as cutting in around edges or painting trim at a height, extension poles fitted with specialized tools can make the task more manageable.
Aluminum Telescopic Pole with Spring Button Lock
Cleaning high or hard-to-reach windows is another task where an extension pole proves invaluable. Extension poles can be equipped with squeegees, scrubbers, or other window cleaning attachments to make this chore easier and safer. By using an extension pole, you can clean windows on upper floors from the ground or a stable platform, minimizing the risk associated with using ladders. Some extension poles even have water-fed capabilities, allowing them to be connected to a hose for thorough and efficient cleaning.
Window Squeegee Cleaner Tool with Extension Pole
Dust and cobwebs often accumulate in places that are difficult to reach, such as ceiling corners, ceiling fans, light fixtures, and high shelves. Extension poles can be used with various dusting attachments to clean these areas effectively. They allow you to maintain cleanliness in high spaces without the need for risky maneuvers on furniture or ladders. This use is especially beneficial in commercial settings like offices, schools, and public buildings, where high ceilings are common.
Clogged gutters can lead to water damage and other issues. Extension poles equipped with specialized gutter cleaning tools enable homeowners and maintenance personnel to clean gutters from the ground level. Attachments such as scoops and brushes can be used to remove leaves, debris, and dirt, ensuring that gutters remain functional and reduce the need for frequent repairs.
In gardening and landscaping, extension poles are often used to prune tall trees and shrubs. Pruning saws or shears can be attached to the pole, allowing gardeners to trim branches without using a ladder. This not only makes the task easier but also reduces the risk of accidents. Extension poles with saw attachments can be used to cut dead or overhanging branches, promoting healthy plant growth and improving the safety of outdoor spaces.
China Telescopic Tree Pruner with Saw
For photographers and videographers, extension poles serve as a way to capture unique angles and perspectives. By attaching a camera or a GoPro to an extension pole, it's possible to take aerial shots, crowd shots, or photos over obstacles. This is particularly useful in event photography, nature filming, or when documenting hard-to-reach areas.
Changing light bulbs in high fixtures can be a hassle, especially when they are located in stairwells or high ceilings. Extension poles with light bulb changers make this task safer and easier. Some models even feature suction cups or spring-loaded grippers to securely hold and twist bulbs into place. This eliminates the need for ladders and reduces the risk of falls during the process.
Extension poles can also be used for various home maintenance tasks such as hanging decorations, installing bird deterrents, or reaching into tight spaces to retrieve items. With the appropriate attachments, these poles can help with applying caulking or sealant to high areas, performing minor roof repairs, and even clearing snow from satellite dishes or solar panels.
Extension poles are a multifunctional tool that enhances safety, efficiency, and convenience in numerous tasks around the home and in professional settings. By eliminating the need for ladders and other risky maneuvers, they make tasks like painting, cleaning, pruning, and maintenance more accessible and less time-consuming. With the right attachments, an extension pole can become an essential part of your toolkit, offering a solution to reach and work on those high or difficult-to-access areas with ease.
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