Shifting an office setup from one location to another can be a nightmare experience for many. One has to rearrange the workspace once again and the biggest hurdle that one faces is repositioning electronic gadgets like monitors, CPUs, fridges, etc. appropriately. It becomes tiresome when you have a single power socket for plugging all the devices. Your rearrangement schedule can get stuck only for this reason.
Hey! Stop; you needn’t worry anymore because extension power cords can solve all of your problems at once. Plug your gadgets into the extension cord board and arrange your office space as you want and when you want. In this article, you will read about the various applications of an extension power cord and the safety tips that one must follow to use it safely.
Extension Power Cord: Why is it so Popular?
You can use an extension power cord anywhere you like. It can be anywhere indoors or outdoors. It is a very handy item with a power connector at one end and several ports on the other to attach the gadgets of your choice.
It offers uniform and minimum resistance and can often be used to attach a gadget several meters away from the power source, like in places where big social gatherings take place.
Applications and Safety Tips for Using Extension Power Cords—Indoors and Outdoors
Uses of Indoor Extension Cords
Even today, many houses have a single power socket in their rooms, which makes it very practically impossible to connect and run multiple appliances all at the same time. But an extension power cord with indicators and a simple indoor Power Strip Power Extension can do the trick.
These wonder cords can also be used to conduct big office conferences indoors. It can also be used in small shooting zones to connect the projector lamps, speakers, mixers, cameras and lights—all at the same time. In short, these remarkable extension power cords not only save money and time but also help keep the workspace clean and tidy.
Safety Tips to be Followed for Indoor Extension Cords
Extension power cords are quite safe to use but you should follow certain safety norms to use them safely every time. These safety measures should be followed for the tee because continuous use can rapidly deteriorate their structure and functioning capacity, making it potentially dangerous for use.
The user may get life-threatening shock from it or may face fire hazards as well. The Electrical Safety Foundation International or ESFI, asks the users to follow some useful tips to stay safe from these hazards:
- Overloading of the extension cords must be avoided completely.
- They should not come in contact with running water or snow on the ground.
- Extension cords are not an alternative to permanent wiring.
- Do not use it as concealed wiring, as heat buildup can cause severe fire hazards.
- Use one extension cord for one appliance. Arrange for additional plug points to insert the individual extension power cords for different appliances.
- Use extension cords according to the wattage ratings mentioned on the appliances and marked ones for indoor or outdoor use.
- A damaged or hot extension power cord should not be used
- Three-pronged plugs should not be used for a two-slotted power point by cutting off the ground pin for a forced fit.
Uses of Outdoor Extension Cords
Outdoor extension power cords are used to plug in various power devices, tools, and appliances that are positioned in places that are far away from an electrical outlet. They are indispensable in situations like:
- In Your Backyards
The extension power cords are used to power electrical objects like outdoor lights, speakers, and lawn equipment
- In the Workshops
The cords provide power to different tools and devices in the workshops
- In Construction sites
Delivers power to various heavy tools and devices
Safety Measures for Outdoor Extension Cord
Outdoor extension cords are an amazingly helpful electrical component that can be used to power any electrical appliances outdoors, but you should definitely follow some safety norms while using them to prevent electrical hazards.
You should follow these rules all the more strictly because the extension cords used outside face a lot of climatic hazards, temperature fluctuations, dirt, heat, etc while they are used for powering the appliances. Here are some of the rules:
- Follow the Label While Choosing the Outside Extension Cord
Use the extension cords that are specifically designed for outdoor use and come with a label “for outdoor use.” They should also have an SJTW or SJOW rating that indicates suitability for wet condition use.
- Needs Regular Inspection
Before each use, inspect the cord for any signs of damage such as cuts, fraying, or exposed wires. Damaged cords should be replaced immediately to prevent electrical shocks or fires.
- Check the Wattage Rating
The extension cords’ wattage ratings should match or exceed the wattage of the devices you intend to use them for. Overloading can lead to overheating, which will cause a big fire.
- Keep it Moisture-Free
Although the outdoor extension cords can resist moisture to a small extent, try to keep it as dry as possible. Do not use it near puddles or water bodies.
- Check for Pinched or Crushed Areas on the Cord Surface
The power extension cord should not face wear and tear that may cause damage to the insulation and wire exposure. It may cause severe electrical shock or fire.
- Unplug Immediately After Use
Unplug the outdoor extension cord from the power source immediately after use, as leaving it plugged in may cause damage or accidents.
- Consider Using the Built-in Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters or GFCIs
Try to use outdoor extension cords with in-built GFCIs. It protects against sudden electric shocks by immediately cutting off the power supply whenever there is a ground fault.
- Store with Utmost Care
Whenever you are not using the outdoor extension cord, store it in a safe place indoors, away from sunlight, moisture, rodents and pests.
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Conclusion
As you can already see, extension power cords are an extremely useful electrical component that must be part of any household and office setup. But it isn’t simply a plug-and-go electrical item as many treat it to be. You should strictly follow the safety measures while using them indoors and outdoors to avoid any unwanted hazards.