Extension cords come in various lengths, from a few feet to 100 feet. Although copper wire is a very good conductor, it does have an amount of resistance that generates heat. This heat can potentially damage the extension cord as well as the devices and appliances that are connected to it.Mar 29, 2018
Is a shorter extension cord better?
Every extra foot of cord increases the electrical resistance. This decreases the power the cord can deliver to connected devices. For best results, use the shortest extension cord possible. Tip: If you're replacing an old cord, look for the AWG number printed on the jacket to select a new cord with the same gauge.
Can a 12 gauge extension cord handle 30 amps?
A 12-gauge aluminum extension cord has a rating of 20 amps at 167°F and 25 at 194°F. On the other hand, a copper wire of the same AWG has a rating of 25 at 140°F, 25 at 167°F, and 30 at 194°F.
How many watts can a 12 gauge extension cord carry?
Which is better 10 gauge or 12 gauge extension cord?
Round down = 10 Gauge. Most devices will do fine with 12 gauge extension cords. Power hungry devices such as lawnmowers, heavy machines, require a lower gauge such as 10AWG. Keep in mind, the lower the gauge means the thicker the cord.Jul 31, 2018
How long can a 12 gauge extension cord be?
The essential extension cord 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.
Should an extension cord be long or short?
Longer extension cords can't handle as much current as shorter cords of the same gauge, so use the shortest possible cord to get the best electrical current. Choose cords with polarized or three-prong plugs. Thick, round, low-gauge extension cords are best for large appliances and tools.Apr 24, 2018
What is a good length for 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.Aug 9, 2018
Is it safe to shorten an extension cord?
Things You'll Need Another feature that makes these cords very valuable and a must for any jobsite is that they can be shortened and cut to any length you need and still be quite usable—even if shortening the extension cord happened quite by accident.
Does length of extension cord matter?
As the cord gets longer, the current carrying capacity of the cord gets lower. For example, a 16 gauge extension cord less than 50 feet in length can power a 1625 watt (W) appliance. A 16 gauge cord that is longer than 50 feet in length can only power an appliance up to 1250W.
Will a 12 gauge extension cord run a refrigerator?
Best Extension Cord for a Refrigerator Using a grounded extension cord with a three-prong plug is always the best choice for major appliances including refrigerators. ... Extension cords with a lower gauge number—like 10 or 12 gauges—are considered heavy-duty cords because they have a higher capacity to deliver power.