An extension cord is a great and easy way to gain some extra power in and outside your home. Though convenient, there is a bit of caution that should come along with them, and if the right one isn’t used, you could be putting your family at risk. So here’s is what happens when you use the wrong extension cord.

You Can Ruin Your Equipment

Your extension cord needs to support the type of voltage your equipment provides and don’t ignore cord length. No matter what the gauge is, longer cords can’t handle as much current as shorter ones. By struggling to provide the right power to your equipment, the wrong extension cord can cause it to burn out and break down sooner than it should.

The Cord Can Overheat

When an extension cord is plugged into an appliance that it wasn’t made to handle, it consumes more wattage than normal. With the extra wattage, it becomes overloaded which can then lead to overheating and worse — fire and that is not something you want to risk. Knowing the precise wattage you need to power and pairing it with the right extension cord is the safest way to obtain electricity.

You Risk Injury

Outdoor and Indoor extension cords are built with different needs in mind. One thing is sure though — neither should be a permanent solution. An outdoor extension cord is built to withstand bad weather and has built-in shock protection too. If you blindly use an indoor extension cord outdoors and it gets rained or snowed on — it could short out and trip the breaker in your home. If you touch an indoor extension cord while wet — you are risking getting shocked. So to safely add electric outside, make sure your extension cord is outdoor approved.

TFC Electric provides residential and commercial electrician services to homes and businesses across Suffolk County, Long Island. With more than 20 years of experience and a 98% A-rating on Angie’s List, don’t look any further than us for your next electrical project. Contact us online to get started with a free estimate, or call (631) 589-2800.