Extension cords can lead to dire consequences
Often many do not think of that innocent extension cord as a potential safety issue. From the Electrical Safety Foundation they estimate that roughly 3300 fires in homes are attributed to the use of extension cords.
Here are some things to remember when using an extension cord:
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- Use one design for the purpose and rated for such
- Do not overload the extension cord
- Never use one as a substitute for permanent wiring
- Do not run through doors, walls, ceiling or floors.
- Do not use for more than one appliance.
- Do not remove the grounding pin
- Never nail or staple a cord
- Buy only approved cords that have been tested from Underwriters Laboratory (UL), Intertek (ETL), or CSA
Extension Cord Designations
S: Designed for general Use
W: Rated for Outdoor Use
J: Standard 300 Voltage Insulation
T: made from Vinyl Thermoplastic
P: Parallel Wire Construction (Air Conditioner Cords and Household Extension Cords)
O: Oil-Resistant
E: Made from TPE
Code Length and Amperage Limits examples:
25 – 50 Feet Extension Cords
16 Gauge(1-13 Amps)
14 Gauge (14-15 Amps)
12-10 Gauge (16-20 Amps)
100 Feet Extension Cords
16 Gauge (1-10 Amps)
14 Gauge (11-13 Amps)
12 Gauge (14-15 Amps)
10 Gauge (16-20 Amps)
150 Feet Extension Cords
14 Gauge (1-7 Amps)
12 Gauge (8-10 Amps)
10 Gauge (11-15 Amps)
Caring for extension cords:
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- Always store cords indoors.
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- Unplug extension cords when they’re not in use.
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- Throw away damaged cords.
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- Use the plug and not the cord when disconnecting from the outlet.
Here is an example from Washington State Dept. Of Labor and industries of a house fire caused by an extension cord.
If you find any errors or have additional information that would expand on any code, building standards or manufacturer requirements please let me know.
NCW Home Inspections, LLC is a Licensed Washington State Home Inspection service located in Wenatchee Washington serving Chelan County, Douglas County, Kittitas County, Okanogan County and Grant County Washington and the cities of Wenatchee, Leavenworth, Cashmere, Oroville, Cle Elum, East Wenatchee, Quincy and many more…
Your Wenatchee and Chelan Professional Real Estate, Home and Structural Pest Inspection Service
Coordinator & Instructor- Fundamentals of Home Inspection- Bellingham Technical College
Former WA Home Inspector Advisory Licensing Board
www.ncwhomeinspections.com 509-670-9572
You can follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and on my website Blog.
If you find any errors or have additional information that would expand on any code, building standards or manufacturer requirements please let me know.
NCW Home Inspections, LLC is a Licensed Washington State Home Inspection service located in Wenatchee Washington serving Chelan County, Douglas County, Kittitas County, Okanogan County and Grant County Washington and the cities of Wenatchee, Leavenworth, Cashmere, Oroville, Cle Elum, East Wenatchee, Quincy and many more…
Your Wenatchee and Chelan Professional Real Estate, Home and Structural Pest Inspection Service
Coordinator & Instructor- Fundamentals of Home Inspection- Bellingham Technical College
Former WA Home Inspector Advisory Licensing Board
www.ncwhomeinspections.com 509-670-9572
You can follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and on my website Blog.
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