Forum Discussion

garmp's avatar
garmp
Explorer II
Dec 23, 2019

25' 30 amp extension cord

I did a quick search on this forum and didn't find the answer so I hope someone out there can help as I am not an electrician. What is the difference between all the 25' 30 amp extension cords out there? The prices seem to range any where from $30 to over $100. All are 10 gauge wire. What else is there I should be aware of and look for?
Not really fond of using an extension cord to start with, but lately we have found some state parks, especially in Kentucky, with the power poles spaced between campsites and farther than my regular 25' power cord.
thanks
Seeking Advice
  • pianotuna's avatar
    pianotuna
    Nomad III
    Dec 23, 2019
    Hi,

    Once difference is whether the wire is flexible in cold weather. Another is Ultra Violet protection for the rubber sheath.

    Flexible in cold weather is nice.

    I had cords created for various lengths.
  • wildtoad's avatar
    wildtoad
    Explorer II
    Dec 23, 2019
    Also take a good look at the connectors. Are the cheap looking or well made. In either case if you use an extension cord, it’s good to not let the connections get wet.
  • CA_Traveler's avatar
    CA_Traveler
    Explorer III
    Dec 23, 2019
    wildtoad wrote:
    Also take a good look at the connectors. Are the cheap looking or well made. In either case if you use an extension cord, it’s good to not let the connections get wet.
    When my connectors fail (older cords) the replacement includes handles.

    I know some fill their DIY connectors with silicon calk but I want the ability to take they apart and clean with baking soda and vinegar and never had a rain problem. Plus the blades and then the inside will get wet anyway unless they are covered.

    Wire quality can be a concern. Copper coated aluminum for example.

    Lower voltage can be a concern depending upon load, wire quality and pedestal voltage.
  • CA_Traveler's avatar
    CA_Traveler
    Explorer III
    Dec 23, 2019
    The first 2 on Amazon had a 5 star rating and under $50. Check the reviews.
  • ScottG's avatar
    ScottG
    Nomad
    Dec 23, 2019
    time2roll wrote:
    For occasional use get the cheap one.


    X2. I've been using a cheap one ($30) occasionally for 15+ years and it works fine.
    If an end ever failed, I'd just replace that end.
  • CA_Traveler's avatar
    CA_Traveler
    Explorer III
    Dec 23, 2019
    I carry 2 30A extensions and 1 50A extension. Plus 2 more 50A that is kept at my sons house and gets heavy hot summer use (100' total). Never had a problem with any of them. Plug replacement as required of course because many CGs don't maintain the pedestal plugs.
  • SoundGuy's avatar
    SoundGuy
    Explorer
    Dec 23, 2019
    garmp wrote:
    Not really fond of using an extension cord to start with, but lately we have found some state parks, especially in Kentucky, with the power poles spaced between campsites and farther than my regular 25' power cord.


    Why? :@ Here in Ontario it's not uncommon at all to have to run 100' from the camper to the power post. I have a total of 140' and have on occasion have had to use it all. You just want to account for voltage drop across the length & gauge of cable you're using and long runs are quite doable. :)

    Voltage Drop Calculator
  • pconroy328's avatar
    pconroy328
    Explorer
    Dec 23, 2019
    CA Traveler wrote:

    Wire quality can be a concern. Copper coated aluminum for example.


    This will be the driving factor in lowering cost.


    As a woodworker, there's a saying when it comes to buying equipment: Cry once.

    Meaning one $100 cord, that lasts 20 years, might be a better investment that buying a $30 cord that lasts five.


    Thirty amps is a lot to push down a cord.
    I'd lean towards once I'm confident is a quality cord.
    YMMV
  • 2oldman's avatar
    2oldman
    Explorer II
    Dec 23, 2019
    pconroy328 wrote:
    As a woodworker, there's a saying when it comes to buying equipment: Cry once.
    x2. My experience is buying cheap stuff is a good way to have to buy it again.

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