Outdoor Extension Cord Guide - How To Use It Safely

We all want to decorate our homes the way we like them. This is a never-ending work in progress that requires learning new things and putting in a lot of work every day. The backyard is an essential part of the house. It’s the area where we spend a lot of time relaxing, making barbecues, playing with children, swimming and so on. Many of these things require different electrical devices and electricity overall.

Sometimes we simply can’t use our devices practically because we don’t have electrical sockets nearby. But don’t worry because there are different extension cords you can use outdoors to bring electricity where you need it. Here is what you need to know.

Always use extension cords that are specifically made for outdoor use.

Extension cords for home use are not an option to connect an electric grill to them. Not only are they designed for indoor use, but they also do not have the necessary power and electricity flow required for such devices to operate safely. For something like this, you will need a heavy duty extension cord. Especially if you have devices in the yard that require more wattage than an indoor extension cord can handle. So if you want to connect an electric barbecue in your backyard, keep in mind that you need to use an outdoor extension cord.

They are made of materials that can withstand various external factors, such as temperature changes or moisture. Keep in mind that there are different outdoor extension cords with varying ranges of power and wattage.

As we said, if you have an electrical appliance that requires higher wattage power, don’t use extension cords that are made for smaller machines. You can cause catastrophic accidents and endanger your family’s safety, and you will probably also damage a device that you have improperly plugged in.

Don’t leave the extension cord outdoor

Even though outdoor extension cords are made to withstand most external factors, you shouldn’t leave them outside for more than a few days, especially if you see that the temperature is frequently changing or if it rains for a couple of days. The chances are low that something terrible can happen, but if you want to extend the life of your extension cord, you may need to be extra careful about various elements. Outdoor extension cords can withstand foot traffic, sun, snow exposure, and they can even work in humid areas.

Extension cords for outdoor use are quality materials, with solid and durable insolation and large wires. They often have additional layers of insolation, making them heavy and capable of resisting freezing temperatures and water exposure.

That insolation serves to protect and shield the fragile wires inside the cord from suffering any more significant damage that can result in catastrophic accidents. But you must keep in mind that extension cords can become susceptible to breaking down if you leave them outside and exposed to weather changes.

If you want to avoid significant accidents like shock or fire, it is better to store the extension cord properly and use it only when needed.

Always check the condition of the extension cord

As already discussed, extension cords for outdoor use are made of quality material and are resistant to various external factors. This certainly does not mean that they are indestructible. In fact, like any electrical device, extension cords have a lifespan. If you use them properly, they can serve you for years. You will even forget when was the last time you had to replace an extension cord for backyard lighting that adorns your patio at night, especially if you set aside a fair amount of money to buy some higher-quality outdoor extension cord.

In any case, you must keep in mind that sometimes an unforeseen situation will occur, resulting in damage to the extension cord. We have already mentioned that this often happens if you forget to pack the extension cord after use and store it somewhere where it will not be exposed to weather changes.

So, the most important rule is to always check the condition of the extension cord before using it and whether there is any damage from one end to the other. If you notice any irregularities, never plug the extension cord into the power supply before calling an electrician to check the damage and repair the cable so that you can use it safely.

Use GFCI outlets for your extension cords!

GFCI outlets are perfect for extension cords. These are particular types of outlets that have a safe design that cuts down electricity in unwanted situations. You can recognize these outlets since they usually have two buttons, “reset” and “test,” with the same sockets as your typical electrical outlet. In some cases, they also have LED lights. These outlets have an automated safety system that turns off the power in case of electrical surges. In other words, if your extension cable is damaged, cut, or overextended by the electricity going through your device, the outlet will turn the power off.

Most homes today have a GFCI outlet, but we suggest installing it for this purpose if you don’t have one. According to National Electric Code standards and instructions, GFCIs should be located in areas of the house and yard where electrical outlets are exposed to moisture and humidity. It will protect you and your kids from electrical surges, especially when there’s water around your backyard. Even if you get shocked through your extension cable, this outlet will cut down the current, ensuring you don’t get any severe burns.

Additional safety tips

In addition to all these tips, here are a few more things to safely help you use your extension cord outdoors.

• Don’t use low-wattage extension cords for appliances that require more electrical power.
• Don’t plug in more than two electrical devices in a single extension cord
• Don’t pair multiple extension cords
• If you notice that the extension cord is heating up, throw it away immediately.
• Don’t bend the extension cord when you’re using it

• Try to find a dry and covered place for your extension cord and avoid putting it under furniture or any flammable surface

Conclusion

You should always be extra cautious and learn how to operate with electrical appliances and cords safely when it comes to electricity. Just follow these tips we’ve listed, and you will surely minimize the risk of getting into major accidents. You can also always call a professional electrician for advice.