Get The Best Extension Cord For The Task -

Details for Get The Best Extension Cord For The Task

ID:	6719
Author:	Jessica Ackerman
Title:	Get The Best Extension Cord For The Task
Article:	Using an extension cord can make the function of a space much more serviceable, and while you may not use one regularly you certainly do use one from sometime. An extension cord can make it convenient to plug your electrical devices into an outlet regardless of how obscure its location is. You will have no difficulty reaching an electrical outlet across the room. You can find longer and shorter extension cords depending on what they are designed to do, and while extension cords may all look identical on the outside, looks can be deceiving. When you get a quality built extension cord, it will last for many years while supplying extended energy safely. Extension Cords Come in a Variety of Strengths and Sizes If you need an extension cord just to use around the house for electrical lamps, radios, modern clocks or small electronic items, then the regular double-wire extension cord will serve your purpose nicely. You can find these extension cords as long as one hundred feet and as short as six feet. For appliances and electronic devices that use more voltage like power tools and space heaters, the double-wire cord is not sufficient. For these larger machines a heavier capacity extension cord is needed. This is the type of cord that is often associated with outdoor use. They are usually brightly colored, either yellow or orange, which makes them highly visible. Being easily seen is a huge benefit when you use one for yard work or when a construction professional uses one on a construction project. Because a three-wire extension cord has an ungrounded third line, ensure that you always plug it into a grounded outlet. Picking the Perfect Cord If you plan to buy an extension cord, think about what you plan to do with it. If you simply plan to plug in a lamp or a radio, then a standard, two-wire extension cord will work well for you. If, however, you plan to operate a power tool like a saw or a sander, then, in order to be safe, you have to use a heavy-duty extension cord. Another thing to keep in mind when you are shopping for an extension cord is that there are major quality differences between extension cords. So when you are evaluating an extension cord for purchase, check for a UL listing, which ensures that it is tested to meet or exceed the United Laboratories power cord safety standards. Find an extension cord that is well insulated, and insulation is paramount if you plan to use the cord for a heavy appliance. High quality extension cords often offer other features like a childproof cover for open outlets. Other features that a quality cord may have are grounded terminals, polarized plugs, a power on indicator as well as surge protection. The cost of your cord can range between several dollars for a simple cord to thirty plus dollars for a very durable extension cord. Expanding Capabilities with Power Strips To begin with using an extension cord is a great way to give yourself some design options as you are arranging electrical equipment in a room, you may also use an extension cord to increase the number of usable outlets that you have in a room. This is when, instead of utilizing a basic extension cord, you will probably want to use a power strip. Using a power strip lets you attach up to eight items to a single outlet, and it will protect your machines from power surges at the same time. You can shell out up to thirty dollars for a quality, power strip. About the author of this article: jessica ackerman, author and staff designer at walldecorandhomeaccents.com, specializes in wall lamps for wooden wall clock .
Category:	Home: Home-Management
Date:	March 20, 2010 08:03:05 AM

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