Can you hardwire an extension cord

Usually, these basic extension cords use gauge wire. Things get more complicated when you are using an extension cord for devices with motors, or which produce heat of any kind. The electrical load of these items is substantially higher, which means light-weight extension cords should not be used with them.

Further complicating the issue is the length of the extension cord. In longer extension cords, the resistance of electrical current is higher, and the potential for overheating is greater. A 5-foot-long heavy-duty extension cord powering a table saw rarely overheats, but a foot-long extension cord of the same wire gauge may well be undersized for the job.

Extension cords should be rated for loads that are at least equal to, and preferably greater than, the requirements needed to run a tool effectively. Extension cord lengths of 50 feet or less can be used based upon the chart shown below, but runs over 50 feet should implement the next heavier-sized cord to accommodate voltage drop due to the natural resistance of the wire. Special caution should be taken with electric space heaters. You should never use an extension cord to plug one of these heaters into a power source.

Numerous house fires have occurred when heaters are plugged into extension cords, due to their high wattage and amperage demands. Instead, space heaters should be plugged directly into electrical outlets, but even there you must be careful not to exceed the amperage rating of that circuit. If you find that a circuit breaker trips or a fuse blows when you plug in a space heater, you should try another circuit with heavier wire and a larger circuit breaker amp rating.

Discard or repair extension cords that are missing ground connections, show signs of extreme wear, or have cracks or cuts, or if you can see bare wire exposed through the outer jacket of the cord. Read these 4 easy steps to help you rewire and replace your extension cord. The prongs on extension-cord plugs are easily bent—and easily straightened with pliers.

But after a few such re-straightenings, the metal can fatigue and snap off. For about five bucks, you can attach a replacement plug. Looking for help with home repairs? Cookie banner We use cookies and other tracking technologies to improve your browsing experience on our site, show personalized content and targeted ads, analyze site traffic, and understand where our audiences come from.

OSHA Construction: When unplugging a cord, pull on the plug, not the cord. Only use two-wire extension cords with double insulated tools and two-wire appliances. Never by-pass the ground pin on a power cord. Use only three-wire extension cords for outdoor use.

Substitute extension cord for permanent wiring. Use indoor extension cord in outdoor environments. Use an extension cord that has a lower current capacity than the tool being used with it. Overload extension cords. Use caution when connecting cords together in a series. The longer the cord the more resistance and less amperage the cord can provide. Force a plug into an outlet. Use a cord if it feels warm or heated during use.

Drive over cords with vehicles or allow heavy loads to be placed on cords. Place cords under rugs or carpets. Run through walls, doorways, ceilings or floors. Use a 3-wire cord that is missing the grounding pin on the plug end. Do not use extension cord to power heating units. Plug extension cords into power strips. Secure extension cords with conductive material.