Table of Contents
What is the best gauge for an extension cord?
Recommended wire gauge for extension cords A cord measuring 14 AWG is the thinnest we recommend—and at lengths of only 25 feet or shorter—and the much thicker 10 AWG is likely the thickest gauge you’ll find in an extension cord.
How much power can a 16-gauge extension cord handle?
16-Gauge Cords: Any 16-gauge cord between 0 and 100 feet long will adequately handle tool loads up to 10 amps. 14-Gauge Cords: Any 14-gauge cord between 0 and 50 feet long will adequately handle loads between 10 and 15 amps.
What does 12 AWG mean on an extension cord?
heavy duty
12 gauge=heavy duty. 10 gauge=very heavy duty. The longer the extension cord, the bigger the drop in amps. It’s important to use a cord which is a heavy enough gauge for the tool or appliance.
How long can a 12 gauge extension cord be?
The essential extension cord A 12 gauge extension cord rated at 20 amps is a versatile extension for both indoor and outdoor use. Over 100-feet, it can safely handle 16 amps. It lets you run a single high-wattage power tool or two to three smaller tools or appliances.
What gauge extension cord should be used for refrigerator?
Best Extension Cord for a Refrigerator Extension cords with a lower gauge number—like 10 or 12 gauges—are considered heavy-duty cords because they have a higher capacity to deliver power. Since the 10-gauge cord is an extra heavy-duty extension, it makes the best choice for big power loads like a refrigerator.
What size extension cord?
The most common size for the extension cords are 16 AWG, 14 AWG, and 12 AWG. The smaller the number, the heavier the wire.
What gauge wire for extension cord?
The extension cord consists of a wire conductor wrapped inside the extension. The thickness of your wire is known as the gauge and most extension cords come with a gauge of between 12 and 22.
What does extension cord gauge mean?
Extension cords range anywhere from 18 gauge to 10 gauge, with 10 gauge being the thickest. Lower gauge (aka thicker) wires allow more electrical current to flow through the extension cord, making lower-gauge cords better for larger appliances and tools that need a lot of juice.
What size wire for welder extension cord?
It’s always best to size welder circuits and wiring based on the input current requirements of the welder. For example, 240-volt, 40- to 50-input amp welders will require a 50-amp circuit breaker and 6-gauge wiring. Welders operating at 30 to 40 input amps require a 40-amp breaker and 8-gauge wire.