The use of extension cords is convenient, however it is not safe to misuse extension cords. There are extension cord safety errors concerning overloaded circuits, fire hazards, and …
The use of extension cords is convenient, however it is not safe to misuse extension cords. There are extension cord safety errors concerning overloaded circuits, fire hazards, and …
The use of extension cords is convenient, however it is not safe to misuse extension cords. There are extension cord safety errors concerning overloaded circuits, fire hazards, and safety errors among others and this article outlines the errors that need to be comprehended by homeowners and do it yourselfers. These are 6 of the most typical extension cord errors and how one can be able to keep his or her home safe. Also look for 7 kitchen Pest Hacks That Works
Plugging too many high-watt equipment is one of the most common extension cord mistakes. There is a weight limit to the extension cords, and surpassing it may lead to overheating and even to a fire. The power rating of the cord and other appliances, is a must to look at. When in doubt, then you get a heavy-duty cord and no overloading of heat-producing equipment such as heaters or microwaves.
Did you know? You can check with a wattage calculator or manufacturer specification on how it measures well within the safe range.
This is one of the worst neglected mistakes in the installation of extension cords. There is no fabricated use of indoor cords to resist rain, sunshine and changes in temperatures. Their usage in the open areas may result in the insulation breaking, short circuit and danger of electrocution.
Remedy: Only the cords labeled as outdoor can be used. They are weatherproof and extra protection has been put in place against wearing and tear in the environment.
Using carpets or furniture to conceal extension cords may appear to be a safe solution to tripping but this happens to be one of the worst extension cord safety errors. With the cords covered, there is no way they can heat out quickly, and this raises the chances of overheating and fires.
Best Practice: Take the cords in sight but not in the path, put cord covers or clips over them. When aesthetics matter, then pay to have decorative cable managing devices.
The most common DIY extension cord safety error is used by many people to take an old cord and reuse it without checking it. Inspecting it, frayed insulation, broken insulation or prominent metal means that the cord has become unsafe to use.
What to Do: Check cords regularly and make sure that there is no wear and tear. In case of a frayed cable, change it immediately; do not even try to do it with a piece of tape or a piece of cloth.
Another extension cord error is plugging an extension cord into other extension cord, or daisy-chaining as some call it. It poses a danger of overloading the electrical sources and slows down the power supply.
Alternative: A longer heavy duty extension cord or additional outlets via a licensed electrician can be purchased in the case of additional length or number of outlets.
Every cord is not the same. Applying power-wasting devices such as tools or appliances with a light-duty cord may overheat or burn out the cord as well as appliance.
Fix: Pick the correct gauge. The lower the AWG (American Wire Gauge) the thicker/ more powerful the cord. Wires with a 12 or 14-gauge should be used in high-demand appliances to allow effective flow of power.
Cords and extension cords are not permanent and they are only temporary and supposed to be quick fix. With awareness of and prevention of such common extension cord errors, you can also somewhat eliminate the danger of electrical hazards in your home.
And, in case you are using extension cords quite frequently, you may want to make sure that more outlets have been put or that you use those power strips that have the circuit breaker built-in. Making extension cords safety one of your priorities is one of the easiest and critical things you need to do to safe-guard your property and children.
