Electric extension cord - what kind?
Hi, Does anybody knows what kind of extension cord I should buy (I found one in Lowes: Basic Connections 100-ft 10-Amp 16-Gauge Orange Outdoor Extension Cord for $17, but I am not sure about the amper...
Forum Discussion
A 15 amp outlet will go to a 15 amp breaker in the fuse box so you will be fine running a 20amp rated extension cord with a 15 amp adapter on it. If you draw more than 15 amps for any amount of time the 15 amp breaker in the breaker box will pop. So if you do not have access to the breaker box (Like at a school) be careful to not draw too much juice... like running a microwave and air conditioner. You will not be in any danger but the breaker will pop and you will not be able to reset it if you do not have access to it and you will not have any electricity for th rest of the night. You better plan for this eventuality as you will most likely pop an inacessible breaker atleast once.
If you are lucky and find a 20 amp outlet just remove the 15 amp adapter and you will be fine.
If you find a 30 amp outlet DO NOT use an adapter to run your 20 amp extension cord on a 30 amp circuit!!!! The 20 amp extension cord will heat up very hot, melt the insulation and start a fire!
If you buy a 30 amp rated extension cord you will be ready for any outlet you find, 15 amp, 20 amp or 30 amp with the appropriate adapter.
If you are lucky and find a 20 amp outlet just remove the 15 amp adapter and you will be fine.
If you find a 30 amp outlet DO NOT use an adapter to run your 20 amp extension cord on a 30 amp circuit!!!! The 20 amp extension cord will heat up very hot, melt the insulation and start a fire!
If you buy a 30 amp rated extension cord you will be ready for any outlet you find, 15 amp, 20 amp or 30 amp with the appropriate adapter.
