Gauge is one of the top factors to consider when shopping for an extension cord. The wrong gauge can spell doom for your extension cable and any connected appliances, even if all other aspects of the wire check out.
In this article, we’ll uncover the meaning of gauges in relation to power extenders and highlight the significance of matching specific gauges with the right appliance.
Understanding Extension Cord Gauge
Gauge measures the diameter of extension cords and other electrical cables. It denotes the thickness of the copper wires (conductors), exclusive of the insulation jacket.
Extension cord gauges are typically represented by a number and the initials AWG, which stand for American Wire Gauge.
Most extension cables have gauge ratings between 12 and 14. However, you could also find a power cord rated 8, 10, 16, 18, or 20 AWG.
The gauge ratings of extension cords increase with a decrease in the wire’s actual thickness. That means cables rated for larger numbers like 18 and 20 have smaller diameters than those rated for 8, 10, and 12.
An extension cord’s gauge also determines its current-handling capacity. The thicker the wire, the better it is at handling electrical current. So, when stuck between a 12 AWG and 14 AWG cord, you should definitely consider the former if you desire a cable that you can use to connect power-hungry appliances.
Different Gauge Ratings and Their Corresponding Applications
1. 8-Gauge Extension Cords
An 8 gauge extension cord is one of the most robust cables you’ll come across. This wire is suitable for powering extra-heavy-duty electrical equipment, such as those used in industrial and construction sites.
8-gauge extension cords can handle up to 50 amps of current.
Amp (short for amperage) denotes the strength of electrical current flowing through a circuit in unit time. It differs from voltage (the speed with which current flows through a circuit) and wattage (the product of amperage and voltage). Any of these measurements is critical when determining the suitability of an extension cord for specific electrical appliances.
2. 10-Gauge Extension Cord
10-gauge extension cords are a step below their 8-gauge counterparts. These wires can handle heavy-duty electrical equipment that require 30 amps.
Common appliances that you can connect to a 10 gauge extension cord include circular saws, planers, shop vacuums, and dust collectors.
3. 12-Gauge Extension Cords
Extension cords that come with 12-gauge copper wires are also considered heavy-duty.
While not as powerful as 10-gauge or 8-gauge wires, a 12 gauge extension cord can handle fairly power-hungry appliances like air compressors.
A 12-gauge extension cord is typically rated for 15 - 20 amps. That explains why the wire is alternatively referred to as a 20 amp extension cord.
4. 14-Gauge Extension Cords
Extension cords rated 14-gauge are suitable for medium-duty applications. These cables are commonly used to power standard home appliances like televisions, computers, portable fans, and lamps.
A 14 gauge extension cord can handle up to 15 amps of current.
Extension cords rated above 14 gauge, such as 16- and 18-gauge wires, are ideal for connecting lighter-duty appliances.
If you’re having trouble matching a cable with the right equipment, an extension cord gauge chart can provide further insights.
Many electrical stores have useful charts on their websites that spell out the gauge ratings recommended for specific appliances. Most of these charts have columns for an extension cord’s gauge vis-à-vis its ampacity and the ideal equipment to connect the wire to. Some may also rely on other essential cord aspects, such as voltage.
For instance, a 220 extension cord is rated for 220 volts. You realize that the focus here is voltage, not amperage.
Flat Plug Versus Round Plug Extension Cords
Flat-plug extension cords have flatter plugs, while their round-plug counterparts have more circular plugs. That seemingly insignificant distinction can make a huge difference in determining each cable’s efficiency.
A flat plug extension cord is more secure since it lays firmly on the ground, preventing tripping hazards.
Flat-plug power extenders also make your workspace organized, making it easier to run behind walls or screen dividers.
Other Terms Relevant To Extension Cord Gauge
1. 10/3 Extension Cords
10/3 extension cords are heavy duty extension cords rated for high-amperage equipment. These wires are ideal for outdoor use.
The number 10 in a 10/3 extension cord denotes the gauge, lending credence to the wire’s superior current-handling abilities.
On the other hand, the digit 3 means the cord has three wires, the third being a grounding wire.
2. 5-15P Plugs
A 5-15 plug is a 3-wire, 2-blade plug for standard 15-amp devices. The wire connects with a 5-15 receptacle.
3. C13 Plug
A C13 plug is a power cord designed with two ends, one with a regular AC and the other with three-prongs.
The three prongs include two flat ones at the top and a third one beneath. The third pin is round and serves as the grounding pin.
4. GFCI Extension Cord
GFCI stands for ground-fault circuit interrupter. It’s a high-responsive circuit breaker that shuts off the power supply during a ground fault.
A GFCI extension cord is ideal for use in wet or damp places, such as the bathrooms, kitchen, and outdoors.
Final Word
Remember that gauge is only one of the many considerations when looking for an extension cord. Other factors, such as cable length, weather resistance, and safety features, should also be considered before choosing the right power extender.