Electric appliances play a major role in our daily lives, such as making juice with a mixer grinder or watching TV while relaxing on the couch.
However, every electrical appliance needs to be plugged into a socket or a power outlet to operate or charge. Sometimes, these sockets or power outlets are far from the appliances, leaving us frustrated.
That said, you don’t have to fret about this problem because the growth of technology has bestowed us one of the best creations of humans; extension cord.
An extension cord acts as a connection between the power outlet and the appliance, or, you can say, a portable outlet. But with so many options available in the market today, how do you choose the best one?
Calm down! This article will discuss all the factors to consider while buying the best extension cord.
Understanding Extension Cord Basics
There are a few basic elements to know before choosing an extension cord.
1. Gauge and Amperage Rating
The thickness of the wire within an extension cord is indicated by its gauge. That said, thicker wire has lower gauge number and carries more current. On the contrary, thin wire has high gauge number and carries less current. For example, a 10 gauge extension cord has a higher power handling capacity than a 16-gauge cord.
Moving further, the maximum amount of electrical current that a cord can securely transport is indicated by its amperage rating. It is imperative that the cord’s gauge and amperage rating correspond with the power needs of your devices to prevent overheating and potential fire threats.
2. Length
The power delivery capacity of an extension cord is influenced by its length. Higher resistance in longer cords can cause voltage dips and decreased efficiency. As a result, it’s critical to select a cord length that balances power supply and convenience for your demands.
3. Indoor vs. Outdoor Use
Extension cords are made to work in particular settings. Moreover, as compared to outdoor cords, which are designed to endure harsher weather and more demanding circumstances, indoor cords are usually lighter and less durable.
There are safety hazards when using an indoor cord outside, such as electrocution or short circuits.
4. Plug Type
There are three different plug types that are included with extension cords: standard, grounded, and twist-lock. Since they shield users from electrical shock, grounded plugs have a third prong as an added safety feature.
In industrial environments, twist-lock connectors are frequently utilized to provide a reliable connection that is difficult to unplug.
Factors to Consider When Choosing an Extension Cord
It’s important to carefully consider your unique demands and circumstances while selecting the ideal extension cord. Consider the following important factors.
1. Power Requirements of Devices
The first step in picking an extension cord is to determine the power needs of the gadgets you wish to attach. Check each device’s wattage or amperage rating to ensure the cord can withstand the overall load.
For example, if you’re running a 1500-watt heater and a 600-watt television, the extension cord should be rated at least 2100 watts. To ensure a safety margin, use a cord with a larger capacity than is necessary.
2. Length of the Cord
Although one could be tempted to purchase the cord with the greatest length due to mobility, one must note that the length comes at the cost of voltage drop. For instance, a cord with a length of 100 feet will be associated with more power loss than a cord measuring 25 feet.
It is always advisable to use the shortest cord possible while still fulfilling the need at hand so as to minimize complications. If a long cord cannot be avoided, then it is advisable to use a lower gauge or thicker wire to reduce the effects of voltage drop.
3. Cord Durability and Insulation
The durability of the extension cord is a very important factor, especially if it is going to be used in a very hard environment.
For outdoor applications, ensure it has a strong and resistant jacket typically used in outdoor applications. These are often referred to as “W” (Weather) cords.
Also, cords with ‘SJ’ (Service Junior) are suitable for outdoor uses, which are not very rigorous, while those with ‘SO’ (Service Oil-resistant) are manufactured for extra heavy usage.
4. Safety Features
Another factor to consider while choosing an extension cord is safety, which should always come first. Look for the following features.
- Grounded Plugs: These plugs have three outlets to allow an additional path to the power current in the event of a short circuit. This minimizes the chances of an electric shock occurring.
- Surge Protection: Depending on the type of extension cords, some of them can protect your devices from surges. This was especially important for delicate machinery, including computers and televisions.
- Circuit Breakers: Power cords that include circuit breakers can shut off power if the current reaches dangerous levels, reducing the risk of overheating and the possibility of fire.
- UL or ETL Certification: Make sure the cord has been approved by safety testing agencies such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL) or Intertek’s ETL mark. This signifies the cord complies with safety requirements for use in a home.
Bottomline
Choosing the best extension cord can be challenging, so always make sure to check the features and amp rating of your cord for proper functioning.
Lastly, remember that extension cords should only be used as a temporary electrical solution. Unplug them when they are not in use, and always use a surge protector to protect expensive electronics or equipment.