Wind might have a big power cords on our wallets joe blanton
2 Y" b! N$ }9 z6 x' W! J
- a9 ^+ f% t j7 a
When you’re in need of an extension cord in the office or at home,
power cords it’s critical to know the cord’s length isn’t the only requirement for the job.
9 M; `7 a! r3 Q- V! L+ ~
FK
: a" j$ F9 E( v! W+ r9 c4 g7 F: D
“Power extension cords are not created equal, but rather are manufactured for use in specific applications and environments, and to carry varying amounts of electrical current,” says an information release from Paul Holstein, COO of CableOrganizer.com, on online retailer of cord, cable and wire management
www.homepower.com equipment and devices. “By basing the extension cord choice on each task’s specific requirements, you can greatly reduce the risks of fire, electrical shock, and injury that come with improper use.”
# b' y" Y# M/ o2 @. _0 l
Classifications: Extension cords are classified for either
replacement power cords indoor or outdoor use. The insulation, or jacket, of an outdoor-rated extension cord is made of a tougher material, which is designed to withstand temperature changes, moisture, UV rays, and (sometimes) chemicals.
) @/ }/ w7 Q8 Z3 J p. t( f* E+ @' B
& @; u5 s5 S. H6 n5 [( GWattage rating: The number of watts an extension cord can safely transmit (given its length and gauge) is known as a wattage rating. Before plugging an appliance or power tool into an extension cord,
power cords it’s extremely important to be sure that the power demand (or pull) of that tool doesn’t exceed the cord’s wattage rating.
& {# U5 ~1 }8 [' a
4 t$ m/ m) ^! x7 fGauge is indicated by a number; the lower the number,
generator power cords the thicker the wire is. A wire’s thickness directly affects the amount of current (or wattage) it can carry over a certain distance.
- e& k% U8 _5 y% x; [
Power requirements: It’s important to know how much electricity is required to run a given device before you plug in. For the most part, you won’t need to do more than consult the manufacturer’s
www.cordsinfo.org instructions.
, A. N& t$ K1 A8 V' ^Another good place to look for wattage specs is on the tag often attached to a device’s power cords. And if all else fails, a quick call to the product’s manufacturer or a look justin timberlake clothing line at the manufacturer’s Web site should clear up any questions.
" \5 l+ _' _2 M! q$ G5 x% v& W9 w, g
Storage: Extended exposure to outdoor conditions can cause cords to deteriorate,
power cords so whether they’re rated for indoors or outdoors, store all extension cords inside when they’re not in use.
