How To Avoid Overloading Your Extension Cord

Everyday convenience in powering electrical devices is not possible without extension cords. They make plugging into power sources in difficult places easy, whether you’re decorating for holidays, powering up tools in the garage, or setting up extra electronics in a home office.

The convenience of that, however, comes with serious risks, including the potential for overloading. In this context, the cord overheats if you plug in too many high-powered devices, which can create an electrical fire, shock, or damage your appliances.

But do not worry. Overloading of extension cords can be entirely preventable with the right knowledge and correct approach, enabling you to power your space safely without stressing about it.

Want to know how?

In this guide, we’ve put together everything you need to know about how to avoid overloading your extension cord so you can protect your home, your devices, and most importantly—your family.

1.  Know the Electrical Limits

Before plugging in multiple appliances or devices, it is important to understand how many amps your extension cord can handle. That said, almost all cords come with a label or imprinting with key specifications such as the amperage (typically 13A or 15A) with the voltage of usually 120V., as well as the maximum wattage capacity.

Plus, to determine its maximum loading capacity, you can multiply amps by the volts. For example, a heavy-duty 15 amp 120-volt GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) extension cord can have a total of 1,800 watts connected to it.

In other words, the total power consumed by all connected devices shouldn’t exceed this limit. Otherwise, it can quickly overload the cord, leading to overheating or fire. That’s why you should always check the cord’s label when using it and never plug anything into it more than it’s capable of.

You should also use only a high-quality GFCI extension cord from known brands or sellers, as others might not handle the load safely. Therefore, investing in a good cord and using it properly protects your home and devices.

2. Only Use One High Powered Device at a Time

In many old architecture homes or ones with few outlets, it is compelling to plug in different devices into a single extension cord. But it is risky, especially with powerful devices like space heaters, microwaves, toasters, or air conditioners.

These units require a lot of electricity and should either be plugged directly into a wall outlet or a heavy-duty extension cord with a high watt rating. On that note, using more than one high-wattage appliance on the same cord can quickly exceed its power limit, causing overheating or even fire.

Further, if you have to use more than one device, time your usage. For example, you should power your toaster first and, after use, unplug it before you turn on the microwave. This small step can prevent dangerous overloads.

3. Avoid Daisy-Chaining Cords

Plugging an extension cord into another to extend its reach is known as daisy chaining. It may be a convenient solution when you don’t have outlets nearby or want to reach across the room, but this is a serious safety hazard.

Extending the length of the wiring through daisy chaining does not increase the thickness or capacity of the wiring; it merely extends the length. As a result, it increases the electrical resistance, creating more heat buildup and a higher chance of overloading or even fire.

In other words, people plug more devices into the outlets and exceed the power limit. However, you should avoid this.

Instead, if your cord isn’t long enough, get or install one longer extension cord with the right gauge of wire, or use a power strip with a longer cord that’s properly rated. All in all, you should always remember that safety comes first.

4. Watch for Warning Signs

If you are noticing warning signs from your extension cord, it is overloaded or even unsafe to use.

Look out for these signs:

• The cord is too hot to the touch
• You smell burning plastic
• Plugs are loose or scorched
• Extension cord is crackling or sparking
• Circuit breakers trip repeatedly

It is important to be aware of these signs and act quickly by stopping using the extension cord immediately and unplugging everything. If such an action is not taken, overheating, damaged wires, or faulty connections can lead to electrical fire or shock.

More importantly, if you’re encountering these warnings repeatedly, it’s about time you get a new cord to replace your old one. It will help prevent you and your family from being harmed due to electrical accidents.

5. Don’t Use Cords Under Rugs of Furniture

Although it may be convenient to hide cords under rugs or furniture, it’s a dangerous practice. Besides that, using a cord under a rug can trap heat, especially if the cord is overloaded or excessively damaged.

Over time, this excess heat can lead to the cord becoming too hot and incites fire risks, especially when rugs are made from synthetic fibers.

Likewise, using cords underneath furniture can damage the cord, affecting the insulation and perhaps creating a short circuit. Over time, small pinches or frays in the wire can lead to serious hazards.

For this reason, it is best to leave your cables in open spaces, visible to your eyes. As a result, heat can escape properly and ensure there’s no wear or damage. Plus, if a cord is close to a high-foot traffic area, consider the use of a cord cover to reduce the chances of stepping on the cord and maintain safety.

6. Unplug When Not in Use

One of the most common things to forget while using extension cords is to unplug them after use, which can lead to several potential dangers. That said, when a cord isn’t actively providing power to a device, it will still slowly heat up the wiring, especially if it’s overloaded or even damaged.

At some point, this excess heat can result in electrical shorts or fire. Moreover, leaving cords plugged in can cause a tripping risk, especially in areas like hallways, kitchens, and living rooms that have a lot of foot traffic.

This risk is even higher in basements or garages or near water sources. Therefore, when you are finished using extension cords, be mindful and unplug them. This way, not only will your home be safe from any potential hazards, but it also prolongs the life of your cords by preventing unnecessary wear and tear.

Conclusion

Extension cords are extremely handy, but you should use them correctly to avoid overloading. You should follow the methods mentioned, like knowing your wattage limits, choosing the right cord, avoiding daisy chaining, using one at a time, watching warning signs, not hiding them under the rugs, and unplugging them when not in use.

These steps will help prevent overloading. So, next time you use extension cords, use such an approach to protect your home, family, and yourself.