Do flat extension cords exist?
For many years, round extension cords have been the industry standard. However, technological advancements have led to the introduction of flat cables that are now being seen as a worthy alternative to the traditional option.
Is a drop cord An extension cord?
An extension cord (US), power extender, drop cord, or extension lead (UK) is a length of flexible electrical power cable (flex) with a plug on one end and one or more sockets on the other end (usually of the same type as the plug).
Why are extension cords not recommended?
Extension cords can overheat and cause fires when used improperly. Overheating is usually caused by overloading or connecting appliances that consume more watts than the cord can handle. Damaged extension cords can also cause fires. Extension cords should only be used temporarily.
Is it OK to run an extension cord under a rug?
Don’t run extension cords under rugs or furniture. Never tape extension cords to floors or attach them to surfaces with staples or nails.
What is flat wire?
Flat wire is generally defined as a thickness to width ratio of less than 5:1. Flat wire products start as round wire and are rolled or die drawn to size by custom processes through a series of operations engineered for your specific requirements.
What are the different types of extension cords?
Common household extension cords are available in 16 gauge (smallest), 14 gauge, 12 gauge, and 10 gauge (biggest). The lower the number, the bigger the gauge and the greater the amperage and wattage is.
What do extension cord colors mean?
The green wire is the ground wire, the white wire is the neutral wire, and the black wire is the hot wire. Light-duty interior extension cords often lack the ground wire, but if a ground wire is present, be sure to connect it.
What cable is used for extension leads?
Generally most extension leads use cable with a CSA of 1.5mm2, however there are some leads with smaller cables in service. As a general recommendation all extension leads (unless essential) should be restricted to 5m or less in length.
What should not be plugged into an extension cord?
Rule two: never plug high power capacity appliances, like space heaters, refrigerators, or microwave and toaster ovens into power strips or extension cords. These appliances have higher power capacity and need to be plugged into a wall outlet directly.
Is it OK to plug a refrigerator into an extension cord?
The biggest concern with using an extension cord to power a refrigerator 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. Never try to plug a three-pronged appliance into an un-grounded extension cord.
Are ungrounded extension cords safe?
You’ll mostly see light-duty extension cords sport only two prongs, which is also known as an ungrounded extension cord. These can be used safely with items that don’t draw a lot of power (lamps, fans, clocks, etc.).