Extension Cord Safety Tips Follow These Points

 Extension cord manufacturers provide a convenient solution to many of your home and work electrical needs. However, they could also be risky fire hazards in the event that you do not utilize them properly. To ensure that you are using the extension cord in a safe manner, whether at home or at work, make sure you follow these basic guidelines:

 

Pick the best cord to complete the job. Various types of cords can be utilized based on their intention. Search for a cord designed for outdoor use if you intend to work outside. It should also have a thicker outer cover constructed from plastic, rubber or vinyl. If you use indoor extension cords outdoors, it could result in excessive heat. In the case of your work and the environment you work in, you might prefer cords that are especially suitable for use with chemicals, oils and extreme temperature.

 

If you intend to connect multiple devices on the cord simultaneously, make sure you add your current needs for every device. The energy requirements are usually listed on the device's own or in the manual for the device. The power requirements of some devices are stated in watts rather than amps. A straightforward formula for converting the rating is amps = 110 watts. If the extension cord does not contain a maximum amp rating, you can determine its capacity by studying the American Wire Gauge (AWG) ratings. The smaller the AWG, the more power the cord has to supply.

 

Make sure you check the cords prior to use.

 In addition to selecting the right cord for the job, it is also important to regularly check and maintain the extension cords. Examine the cord for signs of wear, degrading or any other damage. Be cautious in handling cords that are damaged. even touching one exposed strand could cause the sensation of a burn or electric shock. You can avoid damaging your extension cord by correctly taking them out of outlets - make sure you don't pull the extension cord away using the actual cord while taking it out of the outlet. If you spot any sort of damage to the cord, then you'll be required to throw it away and replace it with a new one.

 

Review cord position.

 Extension cords should be utilized in areas where they aren't normally walked on. The placement of cords in busy locations can cause slips and falls, while cords that are walked over are more likely to degrade. Extension cord must be run through walls or baseboards or tucked behind equipment or furniture to keep them far enough away from the area. If your cord isn't sufficient to connect across the wall between your outlet and the device, don't connect a second cord. In the event that you plug two extensions cords and you reduce the efficiency and operating voltage of the appliances and tools you'll be using, and may cause damage to motors.

 

Other crucial tips for safety include:

 Do not replace extension cord for wire that is permanent.

 Large dependence on cords can be an indicator that you have limited outlets to satisfy your requirements. Make sure you have additional outlets in the places you'll need they.

 Do not use plugs with three prongs with outlets that have only two slots for plugs. Don't remove the pin that connects to ground in order to make a fitting. This is not the point of a three-prong plug, and can result in an electric shock.

 

Extension cords are a basic and common electrical solution that can be used in the office and home, but they could be extremely dangerous in the wrong way. Before connecting an extension cord to a device ensure that you've chosen the right cord, make sure it's working properly and ensure that the cord is properly placed.