Extension cords make life a little more convenient, letting you plug in the iron or your Christmas decorations even when the outlet is not exactly where you need it. Lengths range from 6, 10, to 20 feet or more. But while the length of the cord you choose is important, even more important is the gauge of the cord: This helps you determine which cords are appropriate and safe for the job at hand. Extension cords are no place to skimp on quality because the extra money you spend on the cord means not only longer life for the extension cord, but safer operation as well.
Heavy Duty vs. Basic Extension Cords
Basic extension cords are standard gauge double-wire cords usually found in brown, white or green housing and they are suitable for small appliances, such as an iron or hand mixer, lamps, alarm clocks and other household electronic devices. They can be found in lengths ranging from 6 feet to one-hundred feet. However, just because this type of cord may be long enough for the task at hand, that does not mean that it is the right cord for the job.
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Basic extension cords are not safe for use with items that draw large amounts of voltage, such as power tools and space heaters. For heavy duty use and for outdoor use, you should choose heavy gauge, triple-cord extension cords; these are usually found in vibrant colors like bright orange or yellow. This makes them easy to spot when being used around power tools. Always use a grounded electrical outlet with this type of three-wire cord so that the third prong is correctly grounded.
How to Choose the Best Cord
Your primary consideration in choosing a cord is the use intended for it. If you're going to use an extension cord for small appliance - for instance, to run a clock radio to the outlet behind your bed - a basic two-wire extension cord will be sufficient. On the other hand, if you'll be using a cord to run a power saw, you should opt for the heavy gauge triple-wire version. Always choose a cord that is UL (United Laboratories) certified: The UL designation will be visible on the cord's label and it signifies that the cord has met or exceeded all industry standards set for extension cords. A heavily insulated cord is recommended for an extension cord that will be used outdoors, for power tools, machinery or major appliances.
Other features that may be important to you include child-proof locking mechanisms, grounded terminals, polarized plugs and surge protectors and power-on indicators. There is a great range of prices in cords, from a low of three-dollars for a light duty cord to a much as thirty dollars for a heavy-gauge three-wire extension cable. Heavy duty versions often come on a wheel that lets you safely and conveniently roll up the cable when not in use.
Increase Function with Power Strips
If you need to plug in several items at one location, such at your computer desk or in a music room, a power strip is a good investment. This will allow you plug in up to eight different items and you can turn everything on with the flick of one switch. A power strip with surge protector also protects the electronics that are plugged into it from potentially damaging power surges. Prices for power strips range from approximately ten to thirty dollars.
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