Selecting the right extension cord for your workplace depends on several factors, including the environment, how far you need the cord to extend, the equipment you’re powering, and how much power you need to safely operate it. Let’s take a look at all of these factors in more detail so that you can make an educated choice.
Types of Extension Cords
Indoor: Indoor extension cords are usually available in shorter lengths than outdoor cords and commonly feature a two-prong plug.
Outdoor: Outdoor extension cords feature weather-resistant properties: this is indicated by a “W” that’s printed on the cord or on the packaging.
Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor/outdoor extension cords offer the ultimate in versatility because they’re suitable for all environments.
Light Duty: Light-duty extension cords are suitable for lower-amperage or lower-wattage lights, equipment, tools, or appliances such as indoor holiday lights.
Medium Duty: Medium-duty extension cords are usually suitable for electronics such as computers, vacuum cleaners, or microwaves. Always make sure the cord can handle the amount of wattage the machine requires to operate.
Heavy Duty: Heavy-duty extension cords are designed to power higher-watt, higher-amp tools and feature thick insulation and jackets. They’re often used on jobsites to power machines such as table saws and compressors.
Other Important Considerations
Once you figure out whether you need your cord for indoor or outdoor use (or both) and know which types of machines you’ll be powering with your cord, it’s time to take a look at some of the finer details.
Amperage: Amperage (or amps) indicates how much power a cord can withstand. For example, high-amperage appliance extension cords are made to carry at least 20 amps. Every extension cord will have an AWG rating (American Wire Gauge) that measures electrical wiring. The lower the AWG rating, the thicker the wire and the higher the capacity for the cord to deliver power.
Gauge: An extension cord’s gauge number is usually listed along with the number of conducting wires inside. For example, a 14/3 cord has a 14-gauge wire with three conductors.
Voltage: Voltage is a measurement of the electrical force that causes the electrons to move. The stronger the electrical force, the greater the voltage number will be.
Wattage: The wattage measurement determines how much electricity has been used. Appliances, light bulbs, and other electrical devices are often rated in watts.
Length: Extension cords come in a few standard sizes: 25', 50', and 100'. Remember, never daisy chain extension cords—always use one cord for one job.
Safety Tips for Extension Cord Usage
As with any type of electrical equipment, there are precautions that need to be taken in order to keep all of your employees safe and compliant. Let’s take a look at a couple.
Amperage and Watts
Extension cords are rated for how many amps or watts they can carry while in use. The extension cord you choose must be rated for at least the same number of amps or watts as the equipment that will be powered. Otherwise, the cord can overheat and cause a fire. Find the extension cord’s amperage or wattage on the UL or ETL tag. Devices often display their power requirements on the device or owner’s manual.
Avoid Foot Traffic
Do not place extension cords through walkways where they will be trampled upon. Invest in longer cords and find ways to keep them away from foot traffic. Never staple cords to baseboards, flooring, or other surfaces. Puncturing the cord will damage it beyond repair and can even cause electrocution.
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Now that you know the types of extension cords that will best meet your business’s needs, it’s time to start shopping. Zoro has extension cords for every environment and amperage specification. Plus, find everything else your business needs today at Zoro.com.
Product Compliance and Suitability
The product statements contained in this guide are intended for general informational purposes only. Such product statements do not constitute a product recommendation or representation as to the appropriateness, accuracy, completeness, correctness, or currentness of the information provided. Information provided in this guide does not replace the use by you of any manufacturer instructions, technical product manual, or other professional resource or adviser available to you. Always read, understand, and follow all manufacturer instructions.