Which is better 12 or 16 gauge extension cord?

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Which is better 12 or 16 gauge extension cord?

When using 100 feet extension cords, you’ll need a: 16 Gauge for 1-10 Amps. 14 Gauge for 11-13 Amps. 12 Gauge for 14-15 Amps.2020-10-15

How much power can a 16 gauge extension cord handle?

As the cord gets longer, the current carrying capacity of the cord gets lower. For example, a 16 gauge extension cord less than 50 feet in length can power a 1625 watt (W) appliance. A 16 gauge cord that is longer than 50 feet in length can only power an appliance up to 1250W.

Can any extension cord be used outside?

Be certain to only use extension cords marked for outdoor use, which are designed to withstand moisture, temperature changes, the sun, and a bit of foot traffic. Never use indoor extension cords outside, they are not built for such rugged use.

Can indoor extension cords get wet?

Extension cords get wet. However, you can use them afterward if you take the proper precaution. You don’t have as much to worry about if the water only touched the plastic and rubber sections. Things become far more complicated if the plug becomes wet or if the liquid enters the outlets on the extension cord.

Is it OK to use indoor extension cords outside?

An outdoor extension cord can be used indoors, but you should never use an indoor extension cord for outdoor tasks. Knowing the differences between indoor and outdoor extension cords will help you eliminate safety hazards.

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.2018-08-09

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Which is better 12 or 14 gauge extension cord?

For 100 feet, the 14 gauge cord works for 11-13 Amps, while the 12 gauge cord is best suited for 14-15 amps. If your cord is 150 feet long, the 14 gauge is best suited for 1-7 Amps, whereas the 12 gauge will support 8-10 Amps. This shows that the extension cord’s length also plays a part in the power it helps safely.2021-09-23

What is the difference between a 14 and 16 gauge?

16ga steel is . 065” inches thick, that is about 1/16th of an inch thick. 14 gauge in comparison is . 083 inches thick which doesn’t sound like much except it is almost 30% thicker (27.6% to be exact).2020-06-16

Is a 16 gauge extension cord better than a 12 gauge?

The lower the number, the bigger the gauge and the greater the amperage and wattage is. In addition, a cord with a larger gauge will carry power a greater distance without dropping as much voltage compared to a cord with a smaller gauge.

What are 16 gauge extension cords good for?

Sixteen-gauge cords are low wattage and are intended for use with small appliances such as portable fans, alarm clocks, table lamps, or floor lamps (note: an electronic device such as a TV or computer should be connected to a surge protector).

Is 16 gauge or 14 gauge extension cord better?

What is the difference between 14 gauge and 16 gauge extension cord? Within 50 feet of your outlet, use a 16-gauge light-duty cord for blowers. For a higher Amp or a greater distance from the outlet, go with a 14-gauge medium-duty cord. Look for a “W” on the jacket if the cord is rated for outdoor use.

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How can you tell if an extension cord is indoor or outdoor?

Rating Indicator — Look for the letter “W” on the cord or on the packaging. That’s the letter used to identify cords that are designed for outside electricity use. Insulation — Extension cords rated for outdoor use have additional insulation around the wires in the cord.2021-03-30

What gauge is a heavy duty outdoor extension cord?

Rugged cords. A 10- to 12-gauge cord is for heavy and extra heavy duty applications (chainsaws, circular saws, shop vacs, air compressors, etc.). These are the heavier weight, and heavier duty cords designed for continual use on job sites, even in extreme weather, and are suitable for very high-amperage tools.2018-04-24

Is there a difference between indoor and outdoor extension cords?

Outdoor cords are designed to withstand moisture, sun damage, and temperature flux. Cords for indoor use are not designed to endure the elements. Another way these cords differ is the amperage rating. Indoor appliances generally require less amperage while outdoor devices often require more.2020-05-22

What is a 12 gauge extension cord used for?

12-gauge extension cords are used for most tools and high power appliances. 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 is the highest gauge outdoor extension cord?

10 gauge

Can you use an indoor extension cord on the patio?

A home’s exterior has become as festive as the decorations inside. But it’s a definite no-no if you’re considering using an indoor extension cord and running power outside your home for your Christmas lights. Indoor extension cords are not designed to withstand the searing sun, moisture and temperature changes.2020-12-18

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How can you tell the difference between an indoor and outdoor extension cord?

Many indoor-use extension cords only have two prongs. While this isn’t a fail-safe method for determining if your cord is only for indoor use, all outdoor extension cords will have three prongs. Outdoor extension cords are often brightly colored in orange rubber, plastic, or vinyl.2020-05-22

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