How to Pick the Best Extension Cord Size for Your Project
Picking the right extension cord for the job is something most people don’t think about, but it is incredibly important. Using the wrong length or gauge extension cord can have damaging consequences.
There are many extension cords such as c20 power cords, c5 power cords, and c13 power cords, so it can be tricky to know what is best for you. Keep reading to learn how you can pick the best extension cord size for your project.
First, make sure you understand how much current you need for your tool or appliance. For larger tools, it is not enough to use a nearby outlet. You need to ensure if your tool needs 15 amps, it gets 15 amps.
Second, make sure you properly size the wire gauge to the length and current draw. Using an extension cord that does have the right gauge wire can starve your tool. This creates a dangerous situation. As the extension cord heats up over time, it could cause melting if used for a long period of time.
Third, keep the cables as short as possible for higher current tools. This means if you can use a 10-foot extension cord instead of a 100-foot cord, you should.
To learn more about how you can pick the right extension cord size for you, watch the video above!
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