Extension Cords
By
User:LPNalini @timeAndDate(1274231739)
I always tell my friends, if you want to get rich, figure out how to transmit electricity across thin air. That will get rid of the need for gasoline or natural gas or really anything other than good, clean power plants (nuclear, wind, water-turbine, whichever). Until then, we'll continue to need extension cords, though, and especially when you're trying to drag that lamp to the other side of the room or even outside for a bit of nighttime R&R. So, let's talk a bit about what to look for when shopping for a good extension cord.
Cord Applications
First things first, take a look at what you plan to use your extension cord for. Lowthickness wire should suffice.
Feature It!
How about some other safety features? Polarized plugs are just about universal nowadays; polarized plugs are of the type where one prong is slightly bigger than the other, to make sure you can't plug it in backwards. Any extension cord that isn't polarized is probably too cheaply made to be worth your time. Certain cords are specifically manufactured for use outdoors or in wet conditions. These cords will be specially insulated to prevent accidents. Consider where you'll be using your cord, and buy appropriately. You should never use an improperly insulated cord outside where it might contact water.
If you're looking for something more like a power strip than a single-line extension cord, check for safety features such as overload protection. A power strip with overload protection will incorporate its own fuse that will trip whenever the load climbs outside its working range. This will do two things for you: first, it will protect you from accidents, and second, it will keep the main circuit breaker for your house from tripping, forcing you to make that long, dark trip down the basement stairs. Many power strips also incorporate a GFCI, a safety feature that detects electrical leaks and shuts the device down once those are detected. What that means to you is, say you decide to test your power strip by sticking your tongue in its socket immediately causing 120V to leak through your head, down your body, and into the ground, the GFCI will detect that leak and automatically shut the circuit down before your tongue gets too crispy. Sweet.
Additional Advice
Another factor to consider when purchasing an extension cord is its total length. Long wires can cause a mess around the house or work area, so try to carefully consider exactly how much wire you'll need. Also keep in mind that long wires are a safety hazard and must be protected throughout the length, as opposed to a shorter wire which hopefully will be well hidden behind some furniture. If anything, consider getting an extension cord reel; that will allow you to get the longer wire and keep things relatively neat and safe as well.
Top Sellers
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