There can be many reasons for having an electrical cord, but the most common reason why you need an extension cord would be the unavailability of an electrical outlet. Either you don’t have an electrical outlet, or if you have one, then it is not positioned where you would like it to be. And if you are fond of doing outdoor activities, then you must know what is the best outdoor extension cord for your needs. This article contains knowledge by one of the best electricians in eastern suburbs, and it will tell you everything you need about an outdoor extension cord.
If you think that all the electrical cords are the same, then you are wrong. Each extension cord has its own features, and if you want to get yourself an outdoor extension cord, you need to keep some things into consideration. And if you’re going to ensure the safety and protection of you and your loved ones, it is essential that you can successfully tell the difference between an indoor and outdoor extension cord.
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Outdoor Extension Cords
You will find three general categories of outdoor extension cords in the market. And choosing the right one for you depends on the situation you are going to use it in. And if you fail to do so, you can get yourself in serious trouble. For any electrical emergency, you can contact the best electricians in Sydney from Mr. Switch who offers 27/4 electrician services right at your door steps.
For Occasional Use: This type of extension cords is best for providing power for a short interval of time and is not meant to be used for something that requires constant power for a longer time. For example, you can use these cords for powering a drill machine or a circular saw.
For Frequent Use: This type of outdoor extension cords is specially made to provide power to more extensive tools and equipment for an extended period. For example, if you have a table saw, then you would need this kind of cord to meet the power requirements.
For Rugged Use: This type of outdoor extension cords is designed for more robust and rougher and sturdy use where you have to power high voltage appliances. These extension cords come with relatively better weather resistance.
What to Look for In Out Extension Cords
You can always tell by the look of an extension cord that it is designed for outdoor use. There are some symbols as well as a physical structure that differentiate an indoor extension cord with an outdoor one. Let’s see some of these features.
- If you find a letter W written on the packaging of an extension cord, then you should automatically understand that this is designed for outdoor use.
- If we talk about the physical appearance, then outdoor cords have way better insulation as compare to the indoor ones. The socket board is heavy, plus the extension cord has rubber, vinyl, or plastic covers, which are helpful in protecting the extension cord from all the moisture and temperature changes. The insulation on the cord also protects it from the sunlight, which can cause the cord to deteriorate.
- Another feature that distinguishes and outdoor extension cord is the plugs it has. An outdoor extension will always have three-prong plugs. The reason is that when you are working outdoors, you are more prone to electrical shock, and this is why the outdoor extension cord has a three-prong plug; the third prong serves as a grounding wire, which reduces the risk of an electric shock.
- If you notice, most of the outdoor devices need more amperage to operate as compared to indoor ones. And this is the reason why you will find more amperage rating on the outdoor extension cords.
How to Keep You Extension Cord Safe in Rain
When working outdoors with an extension cord plugged in, it is essential to keep it away from any kind of moisture or wetness. This is a special trick that will be very useful to keep your extension cords dry. All you got to do is shield your extension by following the steps given below:
- Get yourself some plastic containers, and if you have them at home, that is perfect; you won’t have to buy new ones.
- The plastic containers are hard, so when you place them on the ground, they won’t move. You can use them to make your own ‘dry box.’
- Now, you need to make a hole to the container so that the cord could pass through it.
- Open the lid of the container, place your extension cord inside, pass the wire through the hole, and you have your very own ‘dry box’ which will prevent any water from getting inside.
You don’t have to buy a costly container; any standard plastic container will do the work. This trick will provide the protection you need. The plastic container will keep your extension cord, dry and off the ground, enabling you to work with the peace of mind, even in rainy seasons.For more electrical help contact your local electricians such as Mr Switch Electrician and seek help from professionals.
