Extension Cords

If you're working on a project and you need an extension cord, don't just grab the first one you see. You need to make sure that you get the right cord for the job. You need to consider: where, what and how long.

First, where are you going to use the cord? If you plan to use the cord outdoors, it must be rated for outdoor use. Second, what are you going to use it for? What kind of tool or appliance? The more power you need for your tool, the larger the diameter of the cord or the gauge of the cord.

If you over power the cord, for example if you use a small lamp cord to power a table saw, it could possibly overheat and be a fire hazard. Finally, how long of a cord do you need? If you use a 100 foot cord for a ten foot job, you're actually going to experience a power drop over the length of that cord, and you won't get as much efficiency out of your tools. So remember, use the right cord for the right job and more power to you.