Extension cords from LifeSupplyUSA are naturally built to be safe while in use. However, it is vital to understand and observe some safety protocols in order to avoid electric shock and fire outbreaks which could lead to property damage and even loss of human lives.
This article takes a detailed look at some extension cord safety tips. Read on to find out more.
What Are the Best Extension Safety Tips and Best Practices?
Avoid Overloading
This is a very important safety tip to observe. This is because overloading and overusing your extension cord could lead to deterioration, shock, or fire outbreaks. Extension cords are primarily meant to be used for a short period. Therefore, you should avoid overloading or overusing your extension cord.
Get the Appropriate Extension Cord
Next, you need to choose the right extension cord customized for the purpose you need it. Outdoor extension cords come with insulation that helps protect them from abrasion, sunlight, and moisture. Therefore, they are perfect for outdoor activities. In comparison, there are other cords built primarily for indoor purposes. Choose a cord from LifeSupplyUSA that matches its purpose of use.
Do Not Connect Multiple Extension Cords
While picking an extension cord, ensure you choose one that will serve its intended purpose. Also, ensure that you avoid short cords that may demand you connecting a new cord to it. This could lead to shock, overheating, or fire.
Use Plugs in the Right Outlet
Avoid trying to use a three-prong plug into a two-prong outlet. This will likely cause a false reaction, and the effects could be quite devastating.
Don't Run Extension Cords Through Walls and Ceilings
Running extension cords through walls and ceiling could lead to fire hazards due to overheating. Therefore, you should avoid doing this in totality.
Avoid Using Damaged Extension Cords
For safer use at home, damaged or burnt extension cords should not be used for indoor and outdoor purposes. Instead, they must be properly disposed of for a cleaner and safer environment.
Always Check Your Cord Wattage Rating
Your home extension cords wattage rating, and the amount of electricity transmitted by the cord, are checked in watts and volts. The wattage rating could be obtained by multiplying the amps and volts. The cord rating must be adequately checked when multiple appliances are used in the home. Ensure that you use the right amount of appliances based on the rating of the extension cord wattage. Remember that overloading your cord with too many appliances can lead to an electric shock or fire.
How to Pick the Right Extension Cord for Your Project
You will find many high-quality extension cords in the LifeSupplyUSA store. In order not to be confused, here are a few ways to pick the right extension cord and avoid fake ones that could lead to home fire accidents:
Opt for a Longer Cord
If you do not have the exact measurement of the room where your cord will be used, it is recommended that you opt for a longer cord to avoid any form of error. A longer cord is convenient, safe, and can be moved around in different parts of the home. It can also be extended to reach your home workstation.
Opt for Thicker Cords
Apart from cord length, another important factor that determines how safe an extension cord is and how much power it can hold is the thickness. Thicker wires are built to carry more power over longer distances. If you're getting a cord at a big-box store, the cord should meet the minimum requirements to run low-power gear like lights, battery chargers, and probably a stereo. Going with the minimum won't do much if you will likely want to run power tools such as drills and saws safely and at the peak of power.
Recommended Wire Gauge for Extension Cords
Cord length and thickness:
- 25 feet - 14/3 (14 AWG)
- 50 feet - 12/3 (12 AWG)
- 100 feet - 10/3 (10 AWG)
Cord thickness is usually measured in terms of gauge or AWG. Larger numbers mean smaller wires, which carry less power. Smaller numbers, on the other hand, imply larger wires which carry more power.
Opt for Cords That Can Take Up to 15 AMPs
If you do not understand the relationship between length and cord thickness, the least you can do is locate the amperage rating on the packaging. We suggest skipping indoor or outdoor extension cords rated for 10 A or 13 A. Rather, you should opt for a cord that is rated for at least 15 A.
Conclusion
Extension cords perform quite a huge role in our homes. Adequate care and precaution must be taken when buying an extension cord to be used in the comfort of the home. This is because the wrong cord could lead to electric shock and fire that causes damage to properties and human lives.
If you have a project that requires the use of an extension, the guide above should enable you to make the right choice on the right cord to opt for. In addition, you can visit the LifeSupplyUSA store to get some of the best, most durable, and high-quality extension cords you will find in the market right now.
