Using extension cords properly is critical to your safety. With continuous use over time, an extension cord can rapidly deteriorate, creating a potentially dangerous electric shock or fire hazard.
Extension cords should only be used on a temporary basis; unplug and safely store them after every use. Continual exposure to harsh environments can cause the insulation to rapidly deteriorate, creating a dangerous shock and fire hazard.
Extension cords always conduct electricity when plugged into an outlet, even if it is not being used. Therefore, always unplug the cord when you are finished with it.
Only use extension cords temporarily; permanent wiring should be installed when use of the cord is no longer temporary. National Electrical Code (NEC) does not allow extension cords in lieu of permanent wiring (NEC 400.8(1) – 2014 Version).
Never Use Extension Cords as Permanent Wiring
Use extension cords only to temporarily supply power to an area that does not have a power outlet. Keep extension cords away from heat, water and oil. They can damage the insulation and cause a shock.
According to the Energy Saving Trust, any switched on charger that is plugged in will still use electricity, regardless of whether the device is attached or not.
An improperly sized extension cord can cause a tool or appliance motor to burn out if allowed to run for too long. It can also cause a dangerous situation if it overheats.
In general, extension cords should not exceed 100 feet in length. However, by plugging one extension cord into another, the maximum cord length can be easily exceeded. If the job requires more than a 100-foot distance, a temporary power distribution box is required.
The National Electrical Code and OSHA do not permit extension cords to be used for permanent wiring.
Power Strips
Larger appliances, such as microwaves and refrigerators, may not be plugged into a power strip or extension cord. Such appliances must be plugged directly into a properly installed outlet.
The maximum length of an extension cord is set at 100-feet by OSHA standards. Any worksite that needs a longer extension must put a temporary power distribution box in place. 100-foot extension cords are ideal for both continuous use equipment like running power from a generator or powering a compressor.
While it's fine to use an outdoor power cord indoors, never use an indoor-rated extension cord for an outside job— doing so could cause electric shock or create a fire hazard.
Extension cords are intended for temporary use and should never be used to connect a major appliance. The biggest concern with using an extension cord to power an appliance is using the wrong cord, which can lead to overheating of the cord, damage to the appliance, and increased risk of fire or electric shock.
The National Electrical Code and OSHA do not permit extension cords to be used for permanent wiring.
No - you should never run two extension cords together. Connecting two or more extension leads together (sometimes known as 'daisy-chaining) is unsafe for several reasons. Only use one extension lead per socket and never plug an extension lead into another extension lead.
220/240V extension power cords are perfect for operating high-end power tools and appliances over an extended distance. Remember, you can safely connect a 15-ampere cord to a 20-amp receptacle, but you can't use a 20-amp cord on anything other than the right device.
In this scenario, the circuit may overload, overheat, and melt the cable's protective plastic component; and in the worst-case scenario, lead to electrocution and fire outbreak, via PortablePowerGuides. Electricians call this a short circuit, and it is what makes extension cords hazardous.
Buy longer than you think you'll need
When you're guessing how long of an extension cord you need, leave yourself extra room for error and buy the next longest cord. Not only is a longer cord more convenient—it's annoying to just barely reach your work area—-but it's safer too.
When you leave your charger plugged in, even if your phone is not connected to it, the charger is still using power from the outlet. This means that all of that wasted energy is going into heating up your home and making the air more polluted.
Be mindful of how you use your devices – laptops, desktop computers, chargers, and all other equipment draw a lot of power from your electrical outlet, boosting your energy bill and kicking money out of your pocket – unplug them when not in use.
Washing machines. Practically every appliance and electronic device you have plugged in at home is using some electricity — and adding to your utility bill — even when it isn't in use or even turned on.
What If My Indoor Extension Cord Gets Wet? Extension cords are insulated and have no electrical parts to damage with water. However, if water drenches the metal prongs or enters the plug outlet, it could cause a short, a fire, or electrocution for the person who touches it. Never use an indoor extension cord outdoors.
What is this? Water is a good conductor of electricity; therefore, any contact with rainwater could lead to electric shock or electrocution. It could also damage the cord. It is imperative to shield your extension cord from Rain whenever you are using it outdoors to prevent these hazards.