Everything you need to know about extension cords

Okay, question time: do you know what to do when your extension cord starts sparking? Or how to choose the right extension cord for your needs? Did you even know there were different types of extension cords for different needs?

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Extension cords can be a surprisingly confusing topic, especially if you're not super familiar with all of their features and capabilities. I've done the research and I’m happy to share what I learned about choosing the right cord, using cords safely, and most importantly, how to prevent electrical fires.

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1. What do extension cords actually do?

Extension cords, in a nutshell, extend the reach of your electrical outlets. They come in a variety of different sizes, lengths, and colours, so you can really be choosy about which one you decide to use. Beyond the obvious, extension cords also provide a boost of extra power. This makes them an excellent option for temporary lighting setups, powering small appliances, and charging electronic devices. 

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With that said, it's important to note that extension cords shouldn’t be treated as a permanent solution. They’re really only meant to be used on a temporary basis and ideally, should be removed once you no longer need them. Additionally, extension cords can be dangerous if you don’t use them correctly. Did you know that improper use of extension cords is one of the leading causes of electrical fires? I sure didn’t, but that's why it's so important to understand how to use them safely.

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2. The different types of extension cords

When it comes to the types of extension cords, there are three main categories: indoor, outdoor, and heavy-duty.

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Indoor extension cords are typically made from plastic and usually have either a two or three pronged plug. They're designed to be used with small appliances and electronic devices. 

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Outdoor extension cords are made from rubber or PVC and have a three pronged plug. These cords are usually used for tools, outdoor lights, and other larger outdoor appliances. These cords can technically be used both indoors or outdoors, but avoid using them in super wet conditions. Also - double check that the cord is in fact meant for the outdoors, an indoor cord won’t last against the elements.

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Heavy-duty extension cords are made from thicker gauge wire and have a four pronged plug. These bad boys are equipped to power large appliances such as air conditioners and refrigerators. They can also be used indoors or outdoors, but they should only be used in dry conditions.

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3. How to choose the right extension cord for your needs

Okay, so now that we’ve gone through the different types of extension cords, it’s time to choose the right one for what you need. 

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The first step is to determine what type of appliance or device you need the cord for. If it's on the smaller end, like a coffee maker, then an indoor extension cord will suffice. However, as I mentioned earlier, something like a refrigerator would require a heavy-duty extension cord.

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The next step is figuring out the length of cord that you require. Surprisingly enough, a lot of people fail to take this into consideration and buy cords that are way too short or way too long. But, because cords do come in a variety of lengths, make sure you measure the distance to your outlet so you can choose one that's long enough. And just a little tip to keep in mind, longer cords are typically more expensive than shorter ones.

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4. How to use extension cords safely

Now it's time to learn how to use them safely. And a reminder in case you forgot, but improper use of extension cords is one of the leading causes of electrical fires!!

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Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind:

• Take some time to inspect your extension cord before using it. If it’s been away in storage for a few months, look for any signs of damage, such as frayed wires or exposed insulation. If you do see any damage, please don’t use the cord.
• Do not overload your extension cord. There is a rating on the cord to determine how much power it can handle and you should definitely respect the rating. It’s easy to exceed this rating by plugging in too many devices or appliances.
• Avoid running your extension cord through doorways or windows. This is a surefire way to damage your extension cord.
• Do not use extension cords in wet conditions. Let’s all go back to first grade science class when we learned that water and electricity do not mix. If you must use an extension cord in a wet area, make sure it is rated for outdoor use.
• Don’t nail or staple your extension cord to walls or floors. Just like windows and doors, this can also damage your extension cord and create a fire hazard.
• And lastly, but one of the most important tips, is that when you’re finished using the extension cord, unplug it from the outlet and coil it up. Try not to leave it lying on the ground where someone could trip over it. 

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If you're having problems with your extension cord, here are a few troubleshooting tips:

• It could be the outlet, not the cord. Make sure the outlet is working properly by plugging in another device. If the outlet is not working, you'll need to have it repaired or replaced (we’ll save that for another blog post…)
• It could in fact be the cord. If you haven’t already, check to see if it’s damaged at all. 
• And of course, double check the rating on the cord. It could be that you’ve got too many high-powered devices plugged in.

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5. Extension cord storage tips

Once you’re finished using the cord, it's important to take the time to ensure you store it properly. This will save you time and money in the future as you avoid damaging the cord, and bypass any struggles to untangle it when you go to use it again.

1. Start with coiling the cord up and tying it with a rope or zip tie. Don’t just pick it up and toss it in a bin. 
2. Make sure wherever you store the cord that it’s dry. Don’t leave it lying on the wet ground, and assess the area around the bin to make sure there are no overhead leaks. 
3. Another option is to hang the cord on a hook. If the space is sheltered and secure, this is a great storage solution.

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Well, that’s about all I’ve got in me when it comes to extension cord talk… but now that you’re an expert on the topic, it's time for you to go out and buy some! Key takeaways are: be sure to choose the right type for your needs and store them properly so you avoid any electrical mishaps. Oh, and bring all this knowledge to your next dinner party, you’ll be such a hit!

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