Pairing Computer with Long Extension Cord: Is It Safe?

What is your favorite – PC or laptop? Many people prefer the latter because of portability, and the fact you don’t have to think about electricity. However, that is only true if your device doesn’t run out of batteries. Once that happens, you face the same problem – finding a power outlet to keep using your laptop.

Have you ever thought about pairing your PC with an extension cord? You may be using that setting now, but have you wondered is it safe?

In this article, we are focusing on using computer extension cords. They exist for a reason, and their goal is to ensure that you continue using your PC safely even when you don’t have direct access to electrical outlets. Here is how to do things right and protect your device.

What Electrical Specifications Should You Have?

Everything starts by using the best computer power cord for your needs. The truth is that these units do not have any special components compared to “standard” cords. The trick lies in finding the right amperage and voltage.
The general rule is that 15 Amps is an adequate amperage rating for a computer power cable. It is vital to note that this varies, and here is why. Your PC might not consume more than 15 Amps, but what if you plug in your monitor and speakers into the power strip you use?
In that case, you will need to increase the amperage rating of the strip. The maximum rating should be more than enough for all the devices you plan to use with that unit.
Apart from the amperage, you should also consider voltage and wattage to determine the power rating. When it comes to voltage, you should go with the 120V setting in the US. Some other countries use the 240V setting, and that is something to keep in mind. The wattage should be around 1,825W to avoid potential issues. The more, the better rule applies here. As long as it fits your budget, go with the highest potential available.

How to Find a Heavy-Duty Cord

The next step in picking the right cord is to find a heavy-duty unit. You will notice that computer power cords come with different settings ranging from 12 to 18-gauge. An important thing to memorize is that the cord’s performance improves as the gauge number goes down. In other words, a cord that has a 12-gauge rating can carry more current than the one that has an “18” rating.
You will need a heavy-duty cord, which implies that you should find one that has a “14” rating. You can even go with a 12-gauge cable, but it’s not necessary. However, it is important to choose a grounded design of the cord. That means it should have three prongs, as that is the safest option to use with a PC.
Although it’s not a usual occurrence, you may want to use the cord outdoors. In that case, you need to find a suitable model that can handle bad weather and other elements.
You might have heard about the SPT-1 VS SPT-2 debate. The difference between these two is the insulation that goes around the copper wire. The SPT-2 has .045 thickness, and SPT-1 .030”, but the good news is that it won’t make much difference when it comes to computers.

It Is Time to Position Your Extension Cord

We hope that you now know how to choose the right extension cord to use with a computer. Once you choose it, you’ve made a huge step, but now it is time to consider the positioning of the cord.

Extension cords are very useful units, but you need to use them properly. That starts with optimal placement, which implies keeping them away from doorways, furniture, and carpets. Think about it this way – any concealment can shorten the time until the cord damages and becomes a safety hazard.

Putting a furniture piece over the extension cord is a surefire way to damage it, and the same can be told for foot traffic if the cable is under a carpet. You can repair a damaged or broken cord, but you will need bulk wire, and a bit of time and effort.

You shouldn’t use nails or staples to attach the cable to the ceiling or walls. However, you can use clips as they won’t damage the cord. Once everything is ready, connect the C13 plug, and plug in your device.

Safety Measures

At this point, your computer should be working with the extension cord. As long as you don’t use multiple extension cables, everything should function flawlessly.

If you want it to stay that way, here are some pointers:

• Turn the extension cord off when not using it – it is a safety measure that will keep you safe.
• Always pull the plug and not the cord – you should pull the cord by its plug as it ensures that you won’t damage the insulation and expose the wires.
• Don’t use multiple power strips - a single strip per cord is the maximum you should use.
• Don’t use more than a single extension cable – it may cross your mind to use another cord to extend the total length, but you should avoid doing that as it increases fire risk.
• The longer the cord, the less current it can handle – the maximum length of the extension cord to consider for optimal performance is 100 feet.
• Never touch the cords while they are in use – you shouldn’t play with cables, and you shouldn’t bend them. Furthermore, you shouldn’t do that anyway because you might damage the insulation.

Perform occasional inspections of the cord – make sure to be thorough and use your eyes and your hands. If you see or feel anything weird, inspect the area with a magnifying glass. You can repair small damage, but the experts don’t recommend using repaired cords.

Ultimately, you should be aware that pairing your computer with a long extension cord isn’t a tough nut to crack. You can use the extension cord for as long as you want once you follow the safety measures properly.