Do's And Dont's Of Different Types Of Extension Cords

By Author: Jennifer Truong
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From grocery stores to hardware stores, extension cords are available everywhere in the market. Extension cords are a popular and practical solution, as they help bring power to electrical devices. 
However, if not used carefully, they might become fire hazards, endangering your safety. Wondering how to keep your home and everyone else safe when using extension cords? Here are some dos and don'ts to follow with extension cords:. 
Things to DO and NOT to DO with the Extension Cords
Select the Right Cord
When purchasing, always select the right extension cord. Check to see if the cord is made for indoor or outdoor use, as you shouldn't use outdoor power extension cable for indoor use. Also, check how much electricity the cord uses to determine if it can meet your power requirements. 
Some useful tips:

Always read the instructions before purchasing or using. 
Opt for cords that have been approved by an independent testing laboratory.
Do purchase low-gauge extension cords to use with larger appliances and thin ...
... or flat cords to use with smaller appliances. 
Before using, check the cord for damage. 

Do you purchase Extension extension cords? 
Do purchase standard extension cords such as two or three prongs. The first prong is hot, the second is neutral and the third is a path to the ground wire. Wondering why you should buy a standard extension cord? The third prong is a worthy investment, as it reduces the risk of shocks and fires. 
Some useful tips:

Purchase cords with polarized or three-prong plugs. 
Do read labels before buying extension cords, as people often confuse extension cords with surge protectors. 

Place Extension Cords Correctly 
correct placement of extension cords is very important. Make sure you don't staple or nail them to the wall. Also, do keep them uncovered. I wonder why it shouldn't be hidden. When run over through ceilings, floors, doors or walls, they are more susceptible to heat, which as a result poses a fire risk. When talking about an outdoor power cable, make sure there is no standing water or snow on the extension cords. 
Some useful tips:

Avoid placing cords behind furniture or carpets. 
Never tape them to the floor or bend or coil cords.
In moist environments, use ground fault circuit interrupters.
Always store outdoor power cords indoors. 
For longer use of extension cords, install permanent wiring. 

Do Check the cords regularly.
Do regular inspection of extension cords to avoid using damaged cords. If you've damaged cords, don't fix them yourself. Always regularly check for wear and tear. 
Some useful tips:

If you find something unusual or dangerous, call a qualified person to identify and fix the issue. 
To prevent electric shocks, you must install GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter). 

Don't Use it During Bad Weather Conditions 
Don't use outdoor extension cords when the weather is unfavourable. Harsh weather not only damages the cord but can also harm you or your surroundings. 
Some useful tips:

Don't keep the cord plugged into the socket when it's raining. 
Don't neglect frequent electrical equipment inspection and condition of your building.  
Don't leave cords unorganized in areas where people could trip over them. 

Don't Overload Extension Cords 
Another thing to keep in mind when using extension cords is to never overload them. This is because there is a maximum amperage rating or amount of electric current that a cord may conduct safely. Using a single cord to power many electrical devices is never a good idea. In simple words, refrain from connecting many extension cords to one another. If necessary, you must consider purchasing more. 
Some useful tips:

Always choose the right length of the cord to reduce power loss. 
Also, never touch cords with wet hands. 
Don't use extension cords for major appliances, such as refrigerators. 

Don't forget to Take Care 
Be it an indoor or outdoor power extension cord, when not in use, always keep it unplugged from the outlet. When disconnecting, make sure to pull the plug, rather than the actual cord. If you've damaged cords, throw them away immediately. Also, if the cords are hot to the touch, unplug them right away, instead of overheating. 
Some useful tips:

When using it, make sure the extension cord plug fits into the outlet all the way. 
Keep children and pets away.
Unplug when not in use. 
Don't wrap your extension cords in such a way that they end up tangled. 

Don't Use Cords for Fixed Wiring 
Some people think of swapping out fixed wiring for extension cords. But this isn't a great idea as these cords do not provide long-term fixes for your power source. You should never substitute permanent wiring in its place, as inadequate handling during installation can lead to deterioration. 
Some useful tips:

If you require additional electricity for longer periods, opt for an electrician to install convenient outlets in your building. 
Don't leave cords neglected if they are in bad condition. 

Different Types of Extension Cords and Don'ts to Follow 
Here are some different types of extension cords and things you need to know:
2-Wire Extension Cord
2-wire extension cords are used for indoor purposes and low-wattage devices. These cords have no ground wire or connection. 
Don't's

Don't plug a 2 wire extension cord into a grounded electrical device.
Don't use a 2-wire to 3-wire adapter. 

3-Wire Extension Cord
3-wire extension cords are used for outdoor purposes and high-wattage devices. These cords have a ground wire and connection. 
Don't's

Don't use an indoor-rated cord for outside purposes. 
Don't use sensitive appliances with regular extension cords.

Always Focus on safety. 
Extension cords are truly an essential accessory and very handy. From homes to offices, it offers great help. However, this doesn't mean it should overwhelm your attention to Safety. When using cords, it all boils down to being cautious and making sure you're using the right cord. By following the right safety measures, you can always rest assured that your extension cords will not hurt you or anyone else. Besides, you can also stay in peace so that there is no risk of injuries or accidents. 

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Jennifer Truong is the owner of SF Cable, a California based online retailer of all kind of cables, wires, cords, and other related accessories for computers and other consumer electronics. SF Cable is well known in the market for providing high-quality products at low prices by sourcing them directly from manufacturers. Jennifer has extensive experience in the cable industry and has been instrumental in the growth of SF Cable and in establishing it as one of the leading providers of cables online.