What gauge extension cord do I need for 13 amps?
14 Gauge
14 Gauge for 11-13 Amps. 12 Gauge for 14-15 Amps. 10 Gauge for 16-20 Amps.
How many watts can a 13 amp extension cord handle?
3000 Watts
You can run up to 2300 Watts with the 10 Amp extension and 3000 Watts with the 13 Amp extension.
What gauge extension cord is best for outdoor use?
For most home and outdoor use, look for a gauge rating between 10 and 18 AWG. You can typically find a cord’s AWG number, or gauge rating, on the cord’s outer jacket—the layer of thermoplastic that surrounds and protects the electrical wires.
How much wattage can a outdoor extension cord handle?
As the cord gets longer, the current carrying capacity of the cord gets lower. For example, a 16 gauge extension cord less than 50 feet in length can power a 1625 watt (W) appliance. A 16 gauge cord that is longer than 50 feet in length can only power an appliance up to 1250W.
Why does my 13 amp plug get hot?
Over time, the metal contacts within the socket which mate with the plug pins can become slightly loose. The loose connection generates heat, the heat increases the resistance of the connection, which in turn generates even more heat, until the contacts do not effectively clip around the plug pins.
What extension cords can be used outside?
Three-prong plug extension cords are the most common for outdoor use. The third prong essentially serves as a super ground for carrying high voltage. It greatly reduces the risk of electric fire caused by short circuits. It does need to be plugged into a three-prong outlet to work properly.
What type of electrical wire is used for outdoors?
Type UF cable
(Type UF cable is the most commonly used nonmetallic cable for residential outdoor wiring runs.) UF cable can be direct buried (without conduit) with a minimum of 24 inches of cover.
How do I know if my extension cord is for outdoor use?
Letter Designation On the extension cord packaging or on the cord itself, the letter “W” indicates that the cord is designed for use outside. Outdoor extension cords have a heavy-duty appearance and tend to have tough, bright orange covers that are made from rubber, vinyl or plastic.
Can outdoor extension cords get wet?
An extension cord can survive the rain if it is rated for outdoor use and if it is in good condition. However, the plug should be kept out of the rain.