What Is the Difference Between Regular and Cold Weather Extension Cords?

Electrical components, like most things, undergo gradual wear and tear.

However, cold temperatures have a way of exerting even more strain on electrical fixtures. The chilly conditions can cause an electrical cord to lose strength and flexibility. And while these changes are usually temporary, they can pose serious issues to an electrical system during the cold season.

It’s not surprising that cold weather is a leading cause of power outages in many US cities annually. That underscore distinguishing between a regular and cold weather extension cord before hitting the electrical stores.

Fortunately, we’ve researched and prepared a guide to the primary differentiators between cold weather and a regular extension cord.

How Does Cold Weather Impact Electrical Components

The first thing to note even before delving into the difference between regular and cold weather extension cords, is how chilly conditions impact electrical systems.

We’ve already pointed out that electrical cords can become weak and inflexible during cold weather. The resultant stiffness makes these components more susceptible to breakage.

A breakdown in your electrical system is probably the last thing you want to deal with when temperatures plummet to sub-zero degrees. That’s because a simple malfunction can cripple your home’s heating system, subjecting you to winter’s cruelty. Depending on the type of extension cord in question, you could incur hefty repair or replacement bills. Besides, there are glaring electrocution risks based on where and when the cords malfunction.

Cold weather also translates to higher consumer demand for electricity. It means space heaters will run considerably longer than they usually do. Operating heavy-duty electrical devices longer than necessary can impact their longevity. It's worse if such appliances are powered using inappropriate extension cables.

It’s also worth noting that small animals seek shelter in electrical equipment for warmth. This brings them dangerously closer to your electrical cables. If you’re operating an extension cord with switch, the sheltering animals may accidentally trip the switch.

Worse yet, they can peck on the cord insulation and expose the live wires.

Primary Differences between Regular and Cold Weather Extension Cords

1. Insulation Thickness

One best practice while shopping for extension cords is to insist on those which come with thicker insulation. Insulation thickness is an exceptionally huge consideration for cold-weather cords, as it helps protect the inner components from moisture damage.

Now, there’s no standard rule on how thick the diameter of a cable’s insulation material should be. However, a power cord for cold weather typically comes with a higher insulation diameter. This is especially true for an outdoor extension cord.

2. Insulation Material

Insulation diameter alone isn’t enough for a waterproof outdoor extension cord. There’s also the insulation material to consider.

Many manufacturers do not pay extra attention to the insulation material when designing regular electrical cords. But the opposite is true for outdoor extension cord cold weather.

While any water-proof material can be used for insulation, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is the most popular choice for its higher moisture resistance. The material is also reasonably affordable and incredibly durable.

PVC is also preferable for its higher chemical resistance. Besides, the material can maintain its shape and flexibility down to -55.

3. Gauge

Gauge refers to the diameter or thickness of the conductor wires enclosed in the insulation material. Higher-gauge wires have better current-handling abilities than their lower-gauge counterparts.

Note that the higher the diameter, the lower the numerical value. The implication is that a 10 gauge extension cord can handle more current than a 12 gauge extension cord.

Gauge differences impact both regular and cold-weather extension cords. But since winter often triggers a demand for heavy-duty appliances, you’ll naturally require an equally heavy duty extension cord to power this equipment.

The idea is to aim for a 12-rated extension cord or higher. And by ‘higher,’ we mean the number should be lower than 12.

4. Ampacity

Ampacity is the maximum current a power cable can carry continuously without exceeding its temperature.

Various factors can affect an extension cable’s ampacity. Noteworthy ones include the conductor gauge and insulation thickness.

Since cold-weather cords should have a thicker conductor diameter and insulation material, such cables should also have a higher amperage rating. A 20 amp extension cord may suffice for many regular extension cords. But when it comes to cold-weather cables with larger conductor diameters, it’s best to insist on a 30 amp extension cord or over. You could even opt for a 220 extension cord if powering higher-voltage equipment.

The key is to ensure the wire meets the power requirements of the appliances you’re using it for. The conventional wisdom is to use a cord rated for more amps than the device needs, not the other way around.

Other Considerations

There are other general considerations while shopping for the best cold weather extension cord.

For instance, you can opt for a bulk extension cord wire as long as 100 ft., depending on the intended use. You could also consider a flat plug extension cord, as these cables have a lower trip hazard.

And needless to say, only purchase extension cords from a trusted supplier.

Wrap Up

Cold-weather extension cords can keep electrical faults down during winter or while working outdoors. We hope you can use this article as your guide the next time you look for cold-weather cables.