Cord length | What thickness you need |
---|---|
25 feet | 14/3 (14 AWG) |
50 feet | 12/3 (12 AWG) |
100 feet | 10/3 (10 AWG) |
What gauge is best for extension cord?
Tech Specs & Details
- 100 Feet
- Flame resistant
- Water-resistant
- 10 Gauge
- Heavy duty
- 10/3 Extension Cord
How to tell the gauge of an extension cord?
- Understand how much current you need to draw for your tool or appliance
- Properly size the wire gauge to the length and current draw required
- Keep your cables as short as possible for higher current tools
- Unroll extension cords fully so they aren’t coiled during use
How can make a super thin extension cord?
Instructions
- Take the extension cord and then section the outlet end with help of a box cutter. ...
- You need to get the pull-light socket and separate it apart. You will get four pieces which are outer casing, top cap, socket and the cardboard shell.
- Now you need to loosen the screws on both sides. ...
- Next you need to check whether the lamp works properly or not. ...
How thick is an extension cord?
How thick is a typical extension cord? Common household extension cords are available in 16 gauge (smallest), 14 gauge, 12 gauge, and 10 gauge (biggest). The lower the number, the bigger the gauge and the greater the amperage and wattage is. Can an extension cord be too thick? The thicker the copper wire, the more electricity it can carry.
How thick is a 12 gauge extension cord?
0.1084 inchesThe most important thing is to consider the thickness and length. 12-gauge cords are thicker than 14-gauge. Note that 12-gauge steel sheets come with a thickness of 0.1084 inches, while the 14 gauge metal sheets are 0.0785 inches thick.
What gauge wire is in an extension cord?
100-foot Extension CordsCurrent DrawMinimum Wire GaugeVoltage Drop20A10-gauge4.00%15A12-gauge5.00%*12A12-gauge4.00%10A12-gauge3.33%
How do I know if my extension cord is 14 gauge?
A lower AWG number indicates a thicker wire and a higher capacity. The lower the number, the higher the cord's capacity to deliver power. Gauge is typically listed along with the number of conducting wires in the cord. For example, a 14/3 cord contains 14-gauge wire and has three conductions inside.
What is a 12 gauge extension cord?
12-gauge extension cords are used for most tools and high power appliances. A 12 gauge extension cord rated at 20 amps is a versatile extension for both indoor and outdoor use. Over 100-feet, it can safely handle 16 amps. It lets you run a single high-wattage power tool or two to three smaller tools or appliances.
What type of wire is used in extension cords?
With simple devices, such as lamps, radios, televisions, and other electronics, the familiar basic household extension cord is perfectly acceptable in most cases. Usually, these basic extension cords use 16-gauge wire.
What gauge is heavy duty extension cord?
10- to 12-gaugeRugged cords. A 10- to 12-gauge cord is for heavy and extra heavy duty applications (chainsaws, circular saws, shop vacs, air compressors, etc.). These are the heavier weight, and heavier duty cords designed for continual use on job sites, even in extreme weather, and are suitable for very high-amperage tools.
Which is better 14 or 16 gauge extension cord?
Within 50 feet of your outlet, use a 16-gauge light-duty cord for blowers. For a higher Amp or a greater distance from the outlet, go with a 14-gauge medium-duty cord. Look for a "W" on the jacket if the cord is rated for outdoor use.
What is a 16 gauge extension cord?
Sixteen-gauge cords are low wattage and are intended for use with small appliances such as portable fans, alarm clocks, table lamps, or floor lamps (note: an electronic device such as a TV or computer should be connected to a surge protector).
Is AWG same as gauge?
Both Gauge and AWG are ideally the same. When writing, we call it a gauge for clear understanding. AWG measurements do not consider the insulation of the conductor. The higher the AWG number, the smaller the conductor.
Which is better 12 or 16 gauge extension cord?
When using 100 feet extension cords, you'll need a: 16 Gauge for 1-10 Amps. 14 Gauge for 11-13 Amps. 12 Gauge for 14-15 Amps.
What does 14 AWG mean on an extension cord?
Larger numbers mean smaller wires, which in turn means it can carry less power. A cord measuring 14 AWG is the thinnest we recommend—and at lengths of only 25 feet or shorter—and the much thicker 10 AWG is likely the thickest gauge you'll find in an extension cord.
Can I use a 14 gauge extension cord for refrigerator?
Experts advise that the extension cord must be of the right length, voltage, and rating for the appliance to work properly. With no problem, you can connect your refrigerator to a power strip cord with conductors of 14 gauge or thicker-12 gauge. Most houses use 14 gauge wiring or better.
Extension Cord Sizing Checklist
1. Determine amperage of tool/appliance 2. Calculate cord length - use the shortest possible cord. 3. Wire gauge determines amperage load 4. Watts...
How Do You Start to Size An Extension cord?
You start to size an extension cord by obtaining the motor amperage from the plate on the tool. You'll find this information on the small metal pla...
How Do You Size An Extension cord?
You size an extension cord by first determining the appliance or tool that will be plugged into the cord.Determine the amperage of the tool(s) bein...
Is The Length of The Cord Important?
Yes, the longer the cord is the greater the voltage drop will be. If you must go a distance greater than 100 feet, then upsize the extension cord.C...
What Does Wire Gauge Mean?
Wire gauge is the measure of the diameter of the metal conductors in the extension cord. Common extension cord wire gauges are: 1. 18 2. 16 3. 14 4...
What Load Can Each Gauge Wire handle?
16-Gauge Cords: Any 16-gauge cord between 0 and 100 feet long will adequately handle tool loads up to 10 amps. 14-Gauge Cords: Any 14-gauge cord be...
How far can you go with an extension cord?
If you must go a distance greater than 100 feet , then upsize the extension cord. Calculate the length of the cord you will need. Of course, you want to determine the maximum distance you think you will be from a permanent electrical outlet.
What happens if you undersize an extension cord?
The size of your extension cord is very important. If you undersize one you can start a fire or ruin an expensive tool. CLICK or TAP HERE or my face to ensure you get the CORRECT extension cord so you or your family doesn't DIE IN A FIRE. Fortunately, many common small hand-held electrical tools can operate without danger ...
How long is a 16 gauge cord?
Fortunately, many common small hand-held electrical tools can operate without danger of motor damage when powered by a 16 gauge cord that is 100 feet long . To make sure you're properly protected, use the following sizing guidelines below. CLICK or TAP HERE to get FREE ANSWERS from local electricians if you have extension cord questions.
What is the gauge of copper wire?
Remember, wire gauge refers to the thickness of the actual copper wire. As a wire gets thicker it can carry more electricity (amps). To confuse us, some idiot decided that as a wire gets thicker (bigger) the gauge number should get smaller! The orange cord is only 18 gauge.
What is wire gauge?
Wire gauge is the measure of the diameter of the metal conductors in the extension cord. Common extension cord wire gauges are: Use the following list to select the proper gauge extension cord. Remember, wire gauge refers to the thickness of the actual copper wire.
Can you have multiple tools on one extension cord?
Yes, you can have multiple tools operating on one extension cord. You just have to be sure the cord is large enough to handle the loads. I was guilty of this infraction many years ago before I fully understood all that's involved. On construction sites, we'd commonly feed multiple saws and drills from one cord.
What is extension cord?
Extension cords offer a means of extending a home's or workshop's electrical circuits when a lamp, appliance, or tool has an attached cord that is too short to reach the needed location. Most people have several extension cords they keep on hand for this purpose.
What is the importance of an extension cord?
What’s important when choosing an extension cord is to determine the amount of the wattage and amperage that will be drawn by the tool or appliance connected to the extension cord. With simple devices, such as lamps, radios, televisions, and other electronics, the familiar basic household extension cord is perfectly acceptable in most cases.
Can you use an extension cord with a motor?
The electrical load of these items is substantially higher, which means light-weight extension cords should not be used with them.
Can you plug a heater into an extension cord?
You should never use an extension cord to plug one of these heaters into a power source. Numerous house fires have occurred when heaters are plugged into extension cords, due to their high wattage and amperage demands.
Why do we need an extension cord?
Sometimes we only need a short extension cord to give us the ability to plug our tools in and complete the project.
Why do extension cords tripping?
As the power tools heat up, so does the extension cords that they are connected to. That, in turn, leads to circuit breakers tripping, often due to a heating up of the breaker and/or overloading of the circuit breaker. To be safe, try not to exceed the extension cord chart below. Be safe, not sorry.
Is copper wire a good conductor?
Long runs of wire encounter a variable that you may not have considered, resistance. Even though the copper wire is a very good conductor, it does have some resistance that causes heat .
How many amps does an extension cord need?
So, if your equipment requires 15 amps, it must get 15 amps. To properly size an extension cord so your equipment is getting enough power, consider the distance you will run the cord and the amps that your equipment needs to run (found on cord).
What happens if you use a longer extension cord?
The longer the extension cord, the farther the power has to travel. Increased length decreases the total amps getting to the machine, creating strain on the outlet and the machine. You should use the shortest extension cord possible that will reach where the operator is trying to go.
Why does my extension cord melt?
Overheating is usually caused by overloading or connecting equipment that needs more power than the cord can handle. Overheating can occur at the plug, at the socket, or even over the entire length of the cord, causing the cord to melt. Using damaged extension cords can also lead to fires.
What is an AWG cord?
Extension cords have an AWG (American wire gauge) rating. This rating is a standardized wire gauge system for measuring electrical wire. In general, the lower the AWG number, the thicker and higher capacity the cord. Using the incorrect gauge electrical cord can cause equipment or outlet overheating. To select the right size gauge cord ...
What does it mean to grade an extension cord lower?
One grade lower will mean that the extension cord is thicker and will be able to provide adequate power to your machine. In some cases, you may need to choose an even lower gauge. For example, many burnishers have a 14 gauge cord and will require a 12 gauge electrical extension cord.
What happens if you use an incorrect gauge cord?
Using the incorrect gauge electrical cord can cause equipment or outlet overheating. To select the right size gauge cord for your equipment, first identify the gauge on your equipment’s power cord. This is typically engraved on the cord. Once you have identified the gauge of the cord on your equipment, you will need an extension cord ...
How to reduce the risk of extension cords?
The best way to reduce the risk associated with extension cords is properly sizing, using, and storing them. There are numerous types and sizes of electrical cords. Some are meant exclusively for indoor use while others can be used indoors or outdoors. There are also several different extension cord gauges and lengths.
What gauge is the thickest extension cord?
Instead, gauge refers to the thickness of the wires inside the extension cord. Extension cords range anywhere from 18 gauge to 10 gauge, with 10 gauge being the thickest.
What is an extension cord?
Extension cords are one of the most common household items, but there are many different kinds of extension cords built for different purposes. Here’s what you should know about extension cords and when they can and can’t be used.
How many prongs does an extension cord have?
The moment you set eyes on different extension cords, you’ll notice one glaring difference: the plug will either have two or three prongs. The third prong is a ground connection, which provides a return path for excess electrical current to prevent damage to the appliance, or even worse, electrical shock to the user if there’s a short.
What is a lower gauge extension cord?
Lower gauge (aka thicker) wires allow more electrical current to flow through the extension cord, making lower-gauge cords better for larger appliances and tools that need a lot of juice.
What is AWG wire?
The Different Gauges (aka AWG) The wires inside an extension cord come in all different thicknesses, which is denoted as “gauge”. It’s also sometimes referred to as “AWG”, which stands for American Wire Gauge. However, don’t get this confused with the actual thickness of the cord itself (though the thicker the gauge, the thicker the cable, ...
Can you use extension cords inside a wall?
Furthermore, extension cords should not be installed inside of walls and used permanently, because they’re unshielded and not heat-resistant, whereas true romex electrical wire is. As for using extension cords to power high-wattage appliances like a space heater or a hair dryer, it’s generally frowned upon.
Do outdoor extension cords have insulation?
Outdoor extension cords, however, have much better insulation and more of it.
Extension Cord Gauge Chart (Amperage)
Check out the below usage and amp rating chart of different extension cord sizes, to know what size suits your requirement.
Types of Extension Cords
Plug-type: Most of the extension cords are either 2 prongs or 3. The 2 prong plug is not grounded while the 3 prong plug is by default. The purpose of a grounded prong is to reduce the risk of electrical failure or heat emission at times.
Conclusion
You should always take precautions while using an extension wire. Extension wires lead to overheating and failures if multiple devices are connected. This is due to overloading. Take extra precautions for preventing shocks and heating issues. Hope with this extension cord gauge guide, you are now clear about which extension cord you should pick.
What is extension cord?
A cord with covers over the outlets to protect against electrocution. Extension cords power devices with cords that are too short to reach an electrical socket and help power systems and appliances when you have more devices than wall outlets. To help you find a model that’s right for your home, the This Old House Reviews team researched ...
How many outlets does a GE extension cord have?
This GE indoor extension cord has two two-prong outlets on the front and one two-prong outlet on the back, all of which have coverings that you can slide over them when they’re not in use to prevent electrocution. This cord is rated for indoor use and should only be used in dry areas, such as your office or living room.
How many amps does a power cord handle?
Most extension cords are rated to support around 13 amp s, though some models like the Southwire Outdoor Extension Cord can handle up to 15 amps.
How long is an Amazon Basics cord?
This Amazon Basics extension cord is available in a variety of sizes, including a 100-foot length. Additionally, customers have the option of buying a four-pack of 50-foot cords or a two-pack of 100-foot cords for 200 feet of reach.
How long should a power cord be?
Cord Length. Power cords can be as short as six feet and as long as 100 feet. If you need an extension cord to power indoor electronics, a cord under 20 feet should suffice. If you need to power corded tools like electric chainsaws, a cord that’s 50 feet or longer may be a better choice.
What is a power cord?
A power cord helps power devices that have cords that are too short to reach a wall outlet. Keep reading to learn about the best extension cords available on Amazon. The products included in this article are available at various home improvement stores and online retailers like Amazon.
Can you plug in multiple outlets with an extension cord?
Most extension cords come with just one outlet that supports a single device. If you want to plug in more than one device, select an extension cord with multiple outlets like the Anker Power Strip Surge Protector.
Indoor Cords and Outdoor Cords
It is important to know where they will be used when getting extension cords. Indoor cords are very different from outdoor extension cord with multiple outlets. Indoor extension cords are generally thinner and shorter. These cords also don’t carry that much power.
Type of Plug
Different electrical cords have different plugs. The plugs of an extension cord can either be two-pronged or three-pronged. A 3 prong extension cord greatly reduces the risk of an electrical shock since these plugs are grounded. A two-pronged plug has no such function.
Cord Size
Another important factor to consider is the length of the cord. A short extension cord provides the minimum voltage loss. The longer a cable, the more voltage is lost, traveling across the length of the cable. Thus, it is best to use a shorter cord for running any appliance with high voltage consumption.
Amperage Rating
When buying extension cords, it is vital to know their amperage rating. The amperage rating is the power/voltage that the cord is designed to handle. Electrical appliances have their voltage rating written on them. When getting power outlet extension, it is important to ensure that the cord has an amperage rating equal to the appliance.
American Wire Gauge (AWG)
The American Wire Gauge is the unit used to measure the size of the copper wire inside the extension cord. A lower AWG represents a thicker wire with greater electricity carrying capacity. Vica-versa, a higher AWG represents a thinner wire with low electricity carrying capacity.
Other Special Features
Certain cables come with special features that make them safer to use. One of the more common features is a ‘ground fault circuit interrupter’ (GFCI). This feature cuts power to the cord in case of a fault adding another layer of safety. Other features include plugs that light up when powered, locking socket, connector box, etc.
How to Roll Up an Extension Cord?
There are different mess-free ways to roll up your extension cord. You have to follow different methods to wrap the cord based on its length.
