Extension cords are one of those must-have pieces of equipment. Cords are essential for delivering power wherever it’s needed—indoors, outdoors, at home, or on a job site.
We carry a wide selection of premium and regular extension cords to cover all your needs from household to heavy-duty professional applications. It’s essential to choose the right type of extension cord or reel for the job at hand.
Types of Extension Cords & Reels
No matter the job, it’s important that you match it with the appropriate extension cord. It's really a matter of safety, but you’ll also get improved functionality and won’t find yourself wrestling or stretching to make a cord fit.
Here are the types of extension cords and reels to choose from:
Type | Key Features | Best For | Image |
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Heavy-Duty Outdoor Cords |
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Retractable Extension Cord Reels |
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By choosing the right extension cords and accessories, you'll get reliable performance, safe operation, and easy storage, no matter the job. Looking for the best power cord for your project? Explore our comprehensive selection of electrical supplies to find everything you need to power your project safely and efficiently.
How to Choose the Right Extension Cord or Reel
There are several factors to consider when you’re selecting an extension cord for a job. Here’s what you need to know to match performance and safety to your application.
Length
Use the shortest cord that reaches your workspace. The longer the cord, the greater the increase in voltage drop. This can reduce performance and may even damage delicate electronics.
For example, a 25-foot extension cord is ideal for garage work. Outdoor landscaping may require a longer cord, such as a 50- or 100-foot option. You want the cord to be long enough to stay plugged in, but not so long that it gets in the way of your work.
Gauge
The gauge refers to the wire thickness. The lower the gauge number, the thicker the wire and the more current it can support.
16-gauge: Ideal extension cords for light-duty uses, such as lamps and small appliances that draw up to 10 amps.
14-gauge: Extension cords are suited for medium-duty applications such as TVs, computers, and indoor power tools that run up to 15 amps.
12-gauge: Best heavy-duty cords for high-power equipment like table saws, air compressors, and multiple power tools up to 20 amps.
Amperage Rating
Match the extension cord rating to the tool’s current draw. Check the manufacturer’s note, usually placed on the tool. For example, a circular saw that draws 15 amps requires a 12- or 14-gauge cord, and a lighter 16-gauge cord wouldn’t be suited to this application.
Location
It’s also important to follow the location guidelines on your extension cord. Cords are typically rated for indoor or outdoor use. Be sure to use outdoor-rated cords for exterior applications like holiday decorations and landscaping tools.
“S” cords are for indoor use.
“W” or “SJTW” cords are resistant to sunlight, moisture, and temperature fluctuations, making them suitable for outdoor use.
Storage
Many extension cords come with storage options that help prevent tangling and tripping hazards. Retractable reels are ideal for busy shops that need to keep the floors clear. Wall-mounted reels can keep your extension cords off the ground, extending their lifespan and keeping your workspace tidy and organized.
Benefits of Using the Right Extension Cord
Using the right extension cord for your job isn’t just beneficial, it’s essential. By selecting the right cord, you’ll ensure safety, efficiency, and durability. Here are some of the reasons why it’s so important to match your cord to your job.
Safer Operation: The right cord prevents overheating and reduces your risk of fire.
Resist Damage: Outdoor-rated cords withstand weather and rough handling.
Better Performance: The correct gauge cords minimize voltage drop so your tools run at full power.
Multiple Tools: Heavy-duty cords let you operate multiple tools simultaneously without tripping breakers.
Extended Lifespan: Proper cord amperage prevents strain on motors and equipment.
Reduced Wear: Tangle-free reels reduce wear and tear on extension cords themselves.
Cleaner Workspace: Retractable cords stay out of the way and off the floor.
Organized: Storage hooks and reels extend the life of cords, preventing kinks.
Extension Cord Frequently Asked Questions
Plugging one extension cord into another is called “daisy chaining,” and it’s not recommended. By connecting extension cords, you increase your risk of voltage drop, exceeding the amperage rating, and even the risk of fire. Choose a single cord that’s long enough for the task.
No, some extension cords are designed for indoor use only. Only cords that are marked with a “W” or “SJTW” are rated for outdoor use. An indoor cord can crack and degrade when exposed to sunlight, moisture, or extreme temperatures, creating an electrical shock or fire hazard.
Check the details for your particular unit, but most manufacturers advise against using extension cords with space heaters and air conditioners, as these appliances draw a continuous high current, which increases the risk of overheating. If it’s absolutely necessary, use only a heavy-duty 12-gauge cord rated for 20 amps and never leave it unattended.
Check the amperage rating of the device you’re powering. Most devices will include a sticker or imprint stating the amperage. Match that to a cord designed to handle the load. For power tools, 14- or 12-gauge extension cords are usually a necessity.
Reels make it safe and fast to store your cords, with some even featuring auto-retract mechanisms to keep cords off the ground, prevent tangling, and extend the cord life. Reels are a handy feature in shops and garages, where cords are used and moved daily.
If you need to power up, choose from our wide selection of extension cords, including indoor, outdoor, and heavy-duty options. For more electrical solutions, explore our full range of cords, outlets & accessories and electrical supplies. At your local retailer you’ll find everything you need for safe power.