Extension Cord Question

as long as it is plugged into the correct voltage no harm. It's overkill but if it keeps you from needing to buy another cord, not an issue.

Shouldn't be a problem at all....
Any appliance can use a shorter or thicker, lower-gauge cord.

Thanks, fellas. I've been meaning to ask that for a long time. Appreciate your speedy responses.

Within reason using a larger pipe than necessary isn’t ever a problem.

Can you use a heavy cord on a light load: YES no problem other than weight and cost.

WHY: if you use a cord that is TOO SMALL the current will overheat it and there is a fire hazard. but using say a 30 amp capable cord for a 10 amp load. NO SUCH PROBLEM Have done in fact.

a RV only requires a heavy cord if you are going to use/run heavy loads. I use a standard yard type extension cord to keep my battery charged, etc.
bumpy

I never carry light duty cords. Anything can use a heavy duty cord.

This is one of those times a kill-a-watt would come in handy. Just leave it plugged in in the RV, and check the voltage after plugging in a load.

Good stuff, thanks to all of you. Bumpyroad: I actually use the heavy duty cord for my electric chain saw. I started using it to hook up the RV a couple of days before we leave because DW likes to vacuum, etc. Was afraid that might blow a fuse.

salem wrote:
I've learned on these forums that you don't want to use too small an extension cord to plug into something that requires a heavy load, such as electric heater, your RV, etc. My question is can you use a heavy duty cord on items that do not require one? Specifically, we're putting up Christmas lights and I'm wondering if I

can use the heavy duty cord I use to plug the RV into the house (via the adapter) to run low voltage lights? Will it cause damage?

Thanks.

No it won't cause any damage.

Just a FYI about using/protecting your RV extension cord while out in the elements for the duration of holiday season. And if you are using an extension to power your RV also! :C

You need to cover the connection to protect it from the elements. And raise it off the ground. Just google "waterproof" extension cord covers there are a ton of them to choose from.


http://littlegreenhouse.com/accessory/electrical.shtml

And in my experience the most important part is to take a look at the prongs of the RV cord. If they are black and not shiny gold take a file and grind/sand it down till you can see the original gold color.

If you don't keep these prongs clean and allow them to turn black they arc and will melt your extension plug as well as the RV cord plug.

Even with a waterproof extension cord cover in place I still place the covered connection on top of a big concrete brick when ever I use an extension cord to the RV.