Attention Do-It-Yourselfers: Use Proper Extension Cords When Using Power Tools
By Keith Kleinholter

As a dedicated do-it-yourselfer, like me, you ve probably done your share of home projects over the years to fill a scrapbook 4 inches thick. Everything from replacing old windows, to finishing the game room in the basement downstairs. And in that time, I ve gone through many different power tools. But it took just one time for me to realize how dangerous an over-heated (and badly-repaired) extension cord could be. I was just never aware of what an over-heated cord could do - really quickly - with what I thought was an extension cord in fine shape.

As I was cutting lumber for a deck one day, I noticed my saw was getting hot real fast. As I continued to cut, I noticed a “pop”, and then the circuit went dead. Luckily, that s all that happened, but as I examined the cord, I noticed the casing had melted, and the interior wires were exposed! Needless to say, I went to purchase a new extension cord. But first, rather than buy something I knew little about, I decided to do a little basic research to find the right cord. But what would determine “right” cord?.

Here s what I found:

Ampacity

- This is the ability of a conductor/wire/cord to safely handle a certain amount of current.

Gauge

- The thickness of the wire (in this case, the wires wrapped in insulated casing) is what determines the ampacity of the cord.

Resistance

- Each size, or gauge wire has the ability to carry a certain amount of current, otherwise, it gets hot. What gets it hot, is the amount of resistance that s introduced. Resistance is the opposition to the flow of electricity. Hence, if too much resistance is offered, the cord will heat up quickly.

What are Normal Indicators of Resistance?

- The smaller the gauge (or, the higher the number), the more resistance is present. A good example of this, would be to connect a power tool rated at 15 amps with a #16 gauge extension cord. This particular cord (#16 gauge) does not have the necessary ampacity to carry 15 amps. The result would be your cord over-heating, as well as the motor of your power tool working harder, and eventually wearing out. The correct cord to use would be a # 14 gauge.

- the longer the length of cord, the more the resistance, because there is simply too much cord for the current to pass through. This will put a drag on the tool s motor as well. That s why, when using multiple cords, just be aware that you are providing a lot of resistance (drag on the power tool motor) and therefore, wearing out the motor faster.

Final Determination

I use these guidelines anytime I need to purchase a new, or replace an old, worn-out cord.

# 14 gauge can safely carry 15 amps

# 12 gauge can safely carry 20 amps

# 10 gauge can safely carry 30 amps

Also, I use only an appropriate length cord when needed. For instance, I would not use a 50 cord when only a 10 footer is needed. I have on hand, several different length, and gauges of extension cords to use for several different applications. If you have not done so, you might want to consider doing the same. By reading and following the manufacturer s guidelines on the label, you will ensure longer life to your power tools, and, in the process, present less of a fire hazard to to yourself, and your property.

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