Using an extension cord can make the function of a space much more convenient, and when you need to place a lamp in a certain spot for your room design it really comes in handy. An extension cord can make it easy to plug your electrical appliances into an outlet regardless of how obscure its location is. You can even use a wall plug in another room if necessary. Extension cords come in many different lengths depending on what they are designed to do, and while extension cords may all look pretty much the same on the outside, looks can be deceiving. When you get a quality built extension cord, it will last for many years while providing extended energy safely.

Different Kinds of Extension Cords

When you just want an extension cord for regular, everyday applications like lamps, radios, wall clocks or small electronic items, then the basic double-wire extension cord will serve your purpose nicely. The regular double-wire extension cord comes in lengths up to one hundred feet. For appliances and electronic devices that are more powerful like power tools and space heaters, the double-wire cord is not sufficient. For these larger devices a heavier capacity extension cord is required. These heavy duty cords are generally used for construction or yard work. Bright orange and yellow color codes make them easy to spot. Being easily seen is a valuable asset when you use one for yard work or when a construction professional uses one on a construction project. Since the third wire is ungrounded in a three-wire extension cord, take care to always plug it into a grounded outlet.

Selecting the Appropriate Cord for the Task

If you plan to purchase an extension cord, think about what you hope to do with it. If you are just plugging in a lamp or a radio, then a basic, two-wire extension cord will get the job done safely and efficiently. If, however, you plan to operate a power tool like a saw or a sander, then, for safety’s sake, you must 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 assessing an extension cord for buying, check for a UL listing, which ensures that it is tested to meet or exceed the United Laboratories power cord safety standards. Look for an extension cord that is well insulated, and insulation is paramount if you plan to use the cord for a large piece of machinery. Another nice feature to look for on you extension cord is the childproof block that you can use to guard any unused extension outlets. Other traits that a quality cord might possess are grounded terminals, polarized plugs, a power on indicator as well as surge protection. The price point for your cord can range anywhere from several dollars for a simple cord to thirty plus dollars for a heavy-duty extension cord.

Expanding Capabilities with Power Strips

To begin with using an extension cord is a great way to give yourself some flexibility as you are arranging electrical equipment in a room, you may also operate an extension cord to increase the number of available outlets that you have in a room. This is when, rather than an ordinary extension cord, you will probably wish to use a power strip. Using a power strip allows a single plug to become as many as eight power connections, and it will offer you surge protection at the same time. You can shell out up to thirty dollars for a quality, power strip.