Have you ever wrestled with tangled cords or struggled to plug something in?
Well, the extension cord often acts as a lifesaver in providing you with a way out of these difficult places. However, like everything else, extension cords have some potential for accidents if not used properly.
You may not believe it, but just a few simple mistakes from your side can invite hazards such as electrical fires or damage to equipment. In this article, you’ll learn how to choose the correct extension cord, its usage, and the essential safety habits you need to put into the product.
How To Choose The Right Extension Cord
Choosing the right extension cords involves considering several factors.
1. Length
When choosing an extension cord, consider the length you want, the wire gauge for safety, and the amperage rating you would need for your device.
Also, consider whether it will be used indoors or outdoors, including other safety features such as circuit breakers. Always check for certification so that the accessory is both safe and reliable.
2. Gauge
The thickness of the wire, more correctly known as the gauge of the wire, is very important from many points of view.
Wire with a smaller gauge number has a larger cross-section. A lower number means the wire is thicker and can carry more current; for general use, 16 gauge is typical, though 14 gauge or lower should be considered with high-power devices.
3. Amperage Rating
Consider the amperage rating of the extension cord, at least to the requirement of the device you are operating. This is a major way of preventing overheating and other probable safety hazards when it is in use.
4. Type Of Plug
When choosing the right extension cord, it is preferable to select those with a three-prong plug. This is because it is safer when operating equipment with high power input.
Due to the use of grounding in preventing electrical shock, you should avoid the connection of many cords in a series but instead have one highly-rated cord that allows for optimum functioning and safety.
5. Surge Protection
An extension cord should be selected with surge protectors built to protect your sensitive electronics against voltage spikes.
These protections block a voltage spike from events like lightning strikes or power surges. A surge protector cord adds more years to the life of your device and creates safety for you and around you.
Proper Usage
To ensure safe and effective operation, it’s crucial to follow the proper usage guidelines for extension cords.
1. Avoid Overloading
The extension cord should not be overloaded. It will be overloaded if the total amperage drawn from all its attached devices exceeds its maximum rated amperage.
You may overheat the cord if you plug devices into the cord, drawing more power than it was designed to supply. Such overheating can damage the insulation and result in an electrical fire or a short circuit.
Always check the rating of the cord – usually on the label or molded into the plug. For example, a 15-amp cord should be used with no more than a 15-amp draw from devices put together.
If you need to connect multiple devices, a power strip will work, but don’t overload those, either. Remembering how many watts each device you plug in draws will help you stay within the limits.
With such caution, you assure your safety and the longevity of the equipment.
2. Keep Away From Water
One of the important reasons why you should keep your extension cords away from water is to prevent electrical hazards. Water and electricity do not mix well; therefore, being exposed to moisture increases the possibility of shock or even a short circuit.
When using any extension cord outside, choose those rated for outdoor use, knowing they can bear exposure to the elements. These usually have thicker insulation and are more resistant to moisture and ultraviolet rays.
Even with outdoor-rated cords, try to avoid running them through puddles, wet grass, or areas where they could be splashed. If you have to use an extension cord in a damp environment, use a GFCI outlet.
The latter is designed to automatically shut off the power when detecting a fault.
3. Don’t Daisy Chain
It may be extremely tempting to daisy chain numerous extension cords together. However, the practice dramatically raises the chances of overheating and electrical fires.
Each extension cord has an amperage rating, and hooking up several can result in an excessive power draw load greater than what the cords can handle safely. When you chain a daisy, you create several points of resistance that can generate heat and potentially damage the cords.
Instead, use one longer extension cord that would suffice for your needs or invest in a power strip with multiple outlets and surge protection built into it. In that respect, you can plug in more devices without compromising on safety.
Safety Measures
Taking the right precautions can greatly enhance safety when using extension cords.
1. Use GFCI Outlets
Using GFCI outlets when using extension cords outdoors or in moist conditions is important. The GFCI outlets are designed to afford additional protection against the flow of electrical current through water or a person by detecting imbalances within the electrical current.
Not only do GFCI outlets switch the power off automatically in case a fault is detected, but they also substantially reduce the risk of electrical shock. Check to ensure that your outdoor outlets are GFCI-protected; if they are not, you may want to consider installing them with the help of an electrician.
Test your GFCI outlets regularly by using the test button to ensure they work as intended. Prioritize GFCI outlets and ensure excellent safety when working with electricity, especially in hazardous conditions.
2. Keep Elevated
When using outdoor extension cords, keep them as high as possible. Doing this will prevent them from tripping and also being exposed to water.
You can also avoid touching puddles and damp ground with an elevated cord since electrical shock from these sources is serious and quite real. Make certain connections sound, and consider cable ties or clips to secure the cord.
The above precautions make a big difference in safety and the longevity of the extension cord, hence enabling the convenience it provides without compromising on safety.
Always opt for a clean and safe environment!
Conclusion
An extension cord is concerned with safety to avoid accidents, ensuring dependable power.
You minimize possible hazards when you choose the proper cord, do not overload it, and follow necessary safety precautions such as using GFCI outlets.
In doing so, not only will it keep them out of harm’s way, but it can also add some years to its life. With these guidelines, you are in the best position to meet your electrical needs both indoors and outdoors without compromising on safety.
It only requires a little caution to go quite a distance to keep yourself and your appliances safe. Be aware, be safe, and enjoy the convenience of extension cords!
