Extension cords are meant to supply power from an electrical outlets to various household and office devices. However, this cord must be used rightly to avoid shock, fire outbreak or any form of hazard. Although extension cords from LifeSupplyUSA are safe for use, here are some dos and don’ts you must keep in mind while using them.

Dos and Don'ts of Using a Retractable Extension Cord

Do make use of the right extension cord type

Make sure to read the label, packaging, and product information on the extension cord from LifeSupplyUSA carefully before making a choice of which one will suit your needs. Extension cords that are made for outdoor usage should only be used outdoors. Likewise, extension cords made for indoor usage should only be used indoors. Extension cords for outdoor usage are normally thicker and made with protective orange or yellow coat that helps with insulation. Cords for indoor usage are thinner than those for outdoor usage and do not have a thick coat.

Do make use of an extension cord with a 3-prong plug

A 3-prong plug extension cord’s third prong gives an avenue for an electricity surge to be dissipated in the earth. It helps to reduce the risk of fire occurrence and electric shocks. Always plug the 3-prong cord completely into the correct outlet.

Do inspect the extension cord before usage

Before making use of extension cords, ensure to check them for cuts or any other type of damage that may cause them to malfunction, especially if they have been in storage for a while. If it is damaged, ensure to replace it. If the extension cord has also become curly, it should be replaced before it gets too damaged to be fixed.

Do make use of approved cords

Before making the choice of an extension cord, ensure that it is tested and verified by an independent testing lab. An example of an independent testing lab is Underwriter Laboratory.

Do unplug extension cords

Extension cords from LifeSupplyUSA are made for temporary usage. If they are not being made use of, they should be unplugged and properly stored away. Extension cords not in use should always be stored indoors. Before plugging a device/appliance into an extension cord, check the wattage rating of the device to ensure that it is within the range of the maximum capacity that the cord can handle to avoid the cord overheating and probably damaging the appliance in the process also.

Do ensure that the extension cord is not within reach of pets, children, and insects

It could become a hazard, and it could also get damaged.

What Not to Do:

• Do not make use of an extension cord that is damaged: A damaged extension cord is a hazard as it could give an electric shock. It is especially dangerous when a damaged cord is used indoors and more so when there are children around.
• Do not connect multiple extension cords: If multiple extension cords are connected together, it could lead to a reduction in the effectiveness of their circuit breakers. If the circuit breakers become less effective, the extension cords could get overloaded. An extension cord of sufficient length should be gotten instead.
• Don’t use an extension cord as a surge protector: Normal extension cords can’t perform the functions of a surge protector, even if it is a 3-prong plug. Surge protectors have features in them that help to protect devices from electrical surges, while extension cords basically connect devices that are far away from the outlet.
• Don’t overload an extension cord: Even after making sure that the wattage rating of a device is with the maximum capacity of the extension cord, do not connect multiple devices that can overload the extension cord. This could cause overheating of the cord and eventually lead to a fire.

• Don’t make use of extension cords permanently: Extension cords are made for temporary usage. They should not be substituted for permanent wiring as they can overheat.
• Don’t remove the third prong from the plug: The third prong of a 3-prong plug is for grounding. If you remove the third prong, it could lead to damage to the cord and any device that is plugged into it.
• Don’t run an extension cord through snow or water: This could cause an electric shock.
• Don’t staple or nail cords to surfaces like walls: This could puncture the insulation of the cord.
• Don’t stuff extension cords together when bundling them: This could damage the insulation of the cord.

Conclusion

Since the wrong usage of an extension cord could be hazardous, it is important to know the dos and don’ts and adhere to them in order to avoid any form of home accidents. In addition, it is vital to buy only high-quality cords from LifeSupplyUSA, these cords are made from sturdy materials that could last a long time.