Image address: https://unsplash.com/photos/5xf-OUM83RA
With our growing reliance on electronic gadgets, finding the ideal location to plug them all is becoming increasingly difficult. The primary issue arises when you want to connect many devices simultaneously and only have one charging station. In this situation, a functional extension is a lifesaver. Cords help suspend lights at events or power appliances at home like connect a lamp to that socket concealed behind the sofa, making them necessary for everyday living. However, ensure that the extension cord you buy is of high quality to prevent it from burning owing to the heat generated by the connected wires of your gadgets.
When choosing extension cords, adhere to the following guidelines to keep your house safe;
- Only buy cords certified by a third-party testing facility.
- For outdoor activities, utilize only extension cables labeled for external application.
- Check the guidelines applicable for details on using the extension properly and how much power it consumes.
- Choose extensions that can handle the watts of the connected gadgets; for instance, a 20 amp extension cord goes with a device with a wattage of 20 amp and below. An extension’s gauge denotes its size, and the lower the number, the bigger the wires and the greater power it can handle.
- Also, consider the cord’s length because shorter cords can accommodate more current than longer ones even though they are of the same gauge.
- Pick extension cords with three-prong or polarized connectors.
- Thick, circular, low-gauge cords go well with larger equipment. However, for smaller gadgets, you can utilize flat or thin wires.
Image address: https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-in-red-shirt-with-black-and-red-hair-5090652/
Also, look out for the following letters;
- S: This denotes a flexible extension cord made for general application.
- W: Denotes that the cord is suitable for outdoor use.
- J: The cord has insulation to a standard of 300 volts. If you can’t see a J, it means the extension cord has greater, 600-volt insulation and is suitable for heavier applications.
- P: Shows parallel wire design used in household extension cords and air conditioner extension cables.
- T: Denotes that the extension cord jacket is composed of vinyl thermoplastic.
- E: This means the cord jacket is composed of thermoplastic elastomer rubber.
- O: This Shows that the extension cord is oil-resistant.
Extension Cord Don’ts
- Never detach the cord’s grounding pin to make it plug into a two-prong socket.
- Avoid connecting many gadgets using one extension cord.
- Don’t use indoor cords for outdoor activities.
- Do not connect numerous cords.
- Avoid running cords under furniture or rugs.
- Don’t tape cords on the floor or staple or nail them to surfaces.
- Avoid bending or coiling cords when in use.
- Cover any unused extension cord receptacles with covers.
- Avoid using extension cords that get hot.
Gadgets You Shouldn’t Connect to a Cord
Image address: https://cdn.pixabay.com/photo/2020/02/24/06/14/electric-4875313_960_720.jpg
Using medium or lightweight cords on high-energy consumption devices poses a fire hazard. Since cords are usually very long, many individuals coil the additional cord and put it behind the appliance. The coil generates energy, causing the cord’s insulation to melt and burst into flames. Below are gadgets you shouldn’t attach to a cord.
Hair Dryers – They consume 15 amps on average and can make a cord overheat and catch fire.
Irons — Appliances, such as irons, consume around 12 amps of electricity, far more than most household extension cords can handle.
Coffee Pots — These appliances use around 10 amps of power, far exceeding the limits that most indoor cords can sustain.
Toaster — heat-generating equipment such as toasters also uses more current than cords can safely accommodate. Hopefully, your kitchen setup will allow you to keep tiny, movable appliances near a power source and away from the sink.
Benefits of Extension Cords
Delivers electricity to Previously Unreachable Areas
Image address: https://unsplash.com/photos/GCdyqIqfGSQ
Some houses and apartments lack adequate electrical sockets, yet people want the convenience of using all their electrical gadgets without stressing about finding a nearby socket. One advantage of using extension cords is charging your gadgets regardless of where the power source is.
Keeps Your Home Tidy
Having cords lying around can look messy and disorganized, and you probably wouldn’t want your house to look ugly and unkempt; thus, buying extension cables to avoid this problem is a good option. You can tuck all of your cables away for a cleaner and tidier look.
Safety Reasons
If you have problems with your cables, you may end up in an unsafe environment. You wouldn’t want someone tripping over tangled cords. When you utilize extension cables, you can keep cables away from where people pass so that your family and guests at home are safe and can move about comfortably.
Enables Use of Multiple Gadgets
You may occasionally need to use many gadgets or appliances simultaneously, and it can be aggravating to have to unplug one thing to plug another. Fortunately, after purchasing extension cords, it will be a thing of the past. Most cords have multiple electrical outlets, enabling you to use several electronic devices simultaneously, thus enhancing convenience.
Conclusion
Always use the cord that is most suited for the area and gadget; furthermore, the appropriate extension cord will give you the required energy. Cords also extend the reach of electrical outlets and allows you to position gadgets wherever you like but ensure you unplug them when not in use. Additionally, use a surge guard to safeguard your pricey gadgets or appliances.