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Yes, the use of an extension cord is safe, as they have been underwriter laboratory tested. An extension cord is meant to be used as a means of bringing power to a portable device for a temporary period of time. They should only to be used as a temporary fix until a permanent installation can be installed.

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13y ago
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14y ago

The electrical code considers an extension cord as a temporary device and not to be used in permanent installations. The maximum length allowed by code for flexible cord is five feet and is only to be used as a connection between stationary and equipment that moves or vibrates.

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13y ago

No, an extension cord is not rated for direct burial. An extension cord is meant to be a temporary power supply where a permanent outlet is not available. Use approved direct burial cable for your installation.

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9y ago

None. Experts tell us that extension cords are by their nature unsafe. For example, here where I work, we are not allowed to use extension cords, at all.

A long extension cord is more likely to heat up in use than a short one, especially if it is still wound up. Using an appliance that uses more power (current) than the cord is rated for, will heat up the extension cord.

Your question cannot be answered any more than the above without knowing its wire gauge and the amount of current being drawn by the device plugged into it.

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6y ago

It depends on the wire gauge, total length, and the amperage you are drawling. The longer and smaller the wire, the more resistance you have thus causing overloading and possible fire or equipment damage.

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7y ago

Yes. Though the term heavy duty extension cord is a misnomer. Extension cords are not rated as heavy or light duty but by the wire size within the cord. When using an extension cord plugged into another one, to extend the distance to the portable device, their efficiency is judged by the load at the end of the cord. In other words, the higher the load amperage, the larger the wire size in the extension cord must be.

It is all about voltage drop. Using undersized wire extension cords will drop the voltage to the connected load at the end where you need to use the portable device.


Judge the amperage of the portable device that you are plugging into the cord and use the appropriate cord size. A #10 cord is good for 30 amps, a #12 cord is good for 20 amps, a #14 cord is good for 15 amps and a # 16 cord is good for nothing but maybe a radio or small hand drill.


If you have cords of different wire sizes, always plug the smallest wire size that will handle the load into the supply source and the larger size into that one. This way you will be negating the voltage drop over the total length of the run.

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10y ago

The total current along each extension cord must not be more than that cord can take.

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Q: Is it safe to use 3 heavy duty extension cords together?
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How long can you run an electric extension cord?

It depends on the gauge of the wire, the length and the total current draw of the appliances. You said "heavy duty outdoor extension cord" so I'll assume 12 gauge wire. You can run a MAXIMUM of 20 amps for a MAXIMUM of 100 Ft on that wire. If the current draw goes up, so should the wire size. If the distance goes up, so should the wire size. 10 Ga wire - 30 amps for 100 Ft.


Is it safe to plug a 1500 watt space heater to a heavy duty extension cord?

Answer for USA, Canada and countries running a 60 Hertz supply service.If the voltage is 120 volts at 1500 watts then the current is 12.5 amps (A = W/V). The term "heavy duty extension cord" has no meaning unless a wire size, voltage rating and insulation temperature factor is mentioned. An extension cord with #12 wire in it will work fine. Try and keep the cord as short as possible so as cord heating does not become a problem.


Why are wires covered in plastic when extension cords are made?

As with any cable or cord set the outer jacket is used to protect the inner current carrying conductors. Jackets are made of various hard wearing materials depending on the type of location and duty use the cords and cables will be subjected to. The wires are covered with insulation to stop them from shorting out between themselves and between themselves and ground.


Why wires are covered in plastic when extension cords are are made?

As with any cable or cord set the outer jacket is used to protect the inner current carrying conductors. Jackets are made of various hard wearing materials depending on the type of location and duty use the cords and cables will be subjected to. The wires are covered with insulation to stop them from shorting out between themselves and between themselves and ground.


Can you plug a refrigerator into a surge protector?

If you mean that the (heavy duty) extension cord has a wire size of #14 or #12 wire in it and that the length is not over 50 feet then you will have no trouble running a refrigerator. Keep in mind that you only use extension cords as a temporary measure and that they are not to be used as replacements for permanent wiring.

Related questions

Can you use an extention cord with a table top microwave oven?

Yes, and extension cord can be used with a microwave. But it is critical to pick an extension cord with a sufficiently high rating on it. Hardware stores and large home stores have extension cords specifically for use as appliance extension cords. They are heavy, and they have only a single place on the end to plug something into. They cost a bit, but are worth it in peace of mind.


Using The Right Cords With An Electric Generator?

When using an electric generator in the home it is important that the extension cords and cables that connect to the generator are strong enough to accept the electrical charge. Cords that are unrated or that are not designed for heavy-duty use could quickly overheat and cause a fire. It is also important to keep any flammable fuel away from the generator and the cords to prevent stray sparks from igniting the fuel.


What capacity of power cord is necessary to charge up a VW EuroVan and is it detrimental to use a cord that's not heavy duty enough?

12 Ga. wire cord,, Most extension cords and 14GA and 16 GA.. they can burn up and ruin the charger..


Is a 125v extension cord ok to use on a 1100w microwave oven?

Yes. It should be a 'heavy-duty' extension cord, rated for 15A or 20A .


Is it a problem to use a two prong electrical cord outside?

Maybe. Many light duty 2 wire cords are only rated for indoor use. A heavy duty cord rated for outdoor use may be used with double insulated tools- they will only have two prongs on their plug. The heavy duty cords generally have two layers of insulation over the wires, and one male/ one female plug.


What belt goes on a Murray explorer go kart?

37x98 or Comet 203597A which is USA made with Kevlar cords. Much more heavy duty than standard belts.


Is your truck light duty or heavy duty?

The one I own is light duty. The one I drive for work is heavy duty.


What sewing machine has the most heavy duty needles?

Janome 11558 Heavy-duty Sewing Machine has some heavy duty needles.


How long can you run an electric extension cord?

It depends on the gauge of the wire, the length and the total current draw of the appliances. You said "heavy duty outdoor extension cord" so I'll assume 12 gauge wire. You can run a MAXIMUM of 20 amps for a MAXIMUM of 100 Ft on that wire. If the current draw goes up, so should the wire size. If the distance goes up, so should the wire size. 10 Ga wire - 30 amps for 100 Ft.


Where is a heavy duty truck dealer?

Freightliner, Kensworth, Peterbilt and Sterling sell heavy duty trucks. Chevy Silverado and Dodge Ram are heavy duty pick-ups. A new heavy duty truck can cost up to $150,000.


Is it safe to plug a 1500 watt space heater to a heavy duty extension cord?

Answer for USA, Canada and countries running a 60 Hertz supply service.If the voltage is 120 volts at 1500 watts then the current is 12.5 amps (A = W/V). The term "heavy duty extension cord" has no meaning unless a wire size, voltage rating and insulation temperature factor is mentioned. An extension cord with #12 wire in it will work fine. Try and keep the cord as short as possible so as cord heating does not become a problem.


What education do i need to be a heavy duty mechanic?

what education do I need to become a heavy duty mechanic