How to Choose a Safe Extension Cord

The process of choosing the right extension cord is a very crucial factor that must not be overlooked when the need arises to avoid compromising the safety of the home or workplace.

Due to the large number of providers and varieties, it is difficult to find out which option is the most suitable for you.

As always, extension cords vary in quality, and if not chosen correctly, a person may end up with a hot extension reel, a dangerous electric shock, or a fire. read A Safety Guide to Handling Power Cords.

These are aspects that have to be looked into, such as the cord length, wire diameter, and power supply. This information is presented for the purpose of helping you make the appropriate decision. In this blog, we shall expound on features that can assist you in choosing a safe extension cord.

How to Choose the Right Extension Cord?

1. Don’t Exceed The Cord Rating

It is also advisable to consider an extension cord's number of volts or amps with respect to the devices being used.

The amperes refer to the ability of the cord in as far as the amount of electrical current it can manage. However, if the rating of the cord is crossed, the cord is likely to become hot and hence become a potential fire threat.

Some electrical equipment may use more watts or amperes when turned on hence, always check this aspect of the equipment that will use the socket first.

Ensure that the extension cord's rating is higher than the total load wattage. This will help ensure that devices are safe and operate optimally.

2. Don’t Use The Wrong Gauge

The one aspect that matters when selecting an extension cord is the gauge. The gauge, in this case, is the thickness of the wire used in the cord.

A lower gauge number indicates a thicker wire so that it will carry more electricity compared to a number with a higher value. The wrong choice of gauge is always perilous.

When the gauge number is too high, and the wire is too thin for the device's power demands, it may get hot and perhaps cause a fire.

Remember to always use an extension cord that matches the gauge to the power requirement of your equipment to avoid any danger.

3. Length

Length is an essential factor to consider when selecting an appropriate extension cord. A longer cord means more convenience but less power at the other end. The longer the cord, the more resistance it offers, and therefore, more voltage drop occurs. This means that your devices may not get the power they require.

Less cable may be preferable for high-power tools or appliances because less cable length will lead to less resistance. It is always good to choose the shortest length that is possible for your CFI.

4. Check For Damage

When selecting an extension cord, it is a very important function to check for damages. Observe the surface and structure of the cord along its entire length. This would include any cut, crack or even exposure of any wires present.

Using a cord with defects is dangerous as it may cause electric shocks or even fires. Check on the plug and the socket to make sure they are in good condition as well.

An extension cord should never be used if the cable is damaged in any way, even if the damage seems insignificant.

5. Safety Practices

An extension cable should be chosen according to certain safety precautions.

Choose cords with adequate insulation to allow the safe passage of electricity without causing electric shocks. If you intend to use the cord with devices that have 3- 3-prong plugs, ensure that it has a grounding option.

Ensure the cord can carry the power load; using a cord that cannot bear the load may lead to overheating and fires.

It is recommended that you always use approved cables that carry labels such as UL or ETL, among others. Finally, it is essential not to use cables that are worn out or appear to be frayed since they are very dangerous.

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