Is an extension cord considered temporary wiring?

Extension cords, also referred to as portable cords, are used for temporary power connections requiring a flexible cord. They are not intended to be used as a substitute for fixed wiring of a structure, however they may (in some circumstances) be used as a temporary wiring solution (OSHA defines as less than 90 days).

Are extension cords permanent?

Extension cords that are not listed, labeled, or rated for permanent (long term) use are all temporary wiring devices. If you need to permanently connect an electrical device, you should use approved wires and/or cable assemblies installed in an approved manner.

Can you use an extension cord as a power cord?

This is the only time it is acceptable to plug an extension cord into a power strip. It is not acceptable to plug another power strip in to this type of power strip. Extension cords are only for temporary use and are not to be left plugged into wall outlets when not being actively used.

How long can an extension cord be used for?

In general, extension cords should not exceed 100 feet in length. However, by plugging one extension cord into another, the maximum cord length can be easily exceeded. If the job requires more than a 100-foot distance, a temporary power distribution box is required.

Can extension cords be used permanently OSHA?

Temporary Extension Cords & Power Connectors Should Not Be Used for Permanent Wiring. Improper use of easily overloaded, unapproved extension cords can present a serious fire safety hazard in the workplace as well as the home.

What is considered permanent wiring?

Permanent Wiring means wiring which forms part of the permanent electrical installation of a building or site and meets the requirements for fixed wiring as defined in the AS/NZS 3000 Wiring Rules.

Do long extension cords use more electricity?

There are two factors: cord length and thickness. The thicker the copper wire, the more electricity it can carry. However, because transmitted power diminishes over distance, longer extension cords require heavier wire to deliver the full current rating required by an appliance.

What are the disadvantages of extension wires?

Extension cords can overheat and cause fires when used improperly. Overheating is usually caused by overloading or connecting appliances that consume more watts than the cord can handle. Damaged extension cords can also cause fires. Extension cords should only be used temporarily.

Is it safe to plug an extension cord into a power strip?

It is o.k. temporarily to plug an extension cord to a power strip, but never a power strip to an extension cord. Also, do not connect multiple extension cords together. And rule number four: don’t use indoor power strips outdoors. If the power strip gets damaged by rain or snow, it can damage anything plugged into it.

Are surge protectors considered extension cords?

Surge protectors often look just like power strips, but not all power strips are surge protectors. Only surge protections actually help protect your gadgets against power surges. Many power strips are just glorified extension cords without any protection.

Are extension cords safe for permanent use?

Extension cords are built for convenience but also built for temporary use. The problem with extension cords is that they are not listed, labeled, or rated for long-term use. The Uniform Fire Code states that these types of cords are intended for the temporary and immediate use of an appliance and are not to be permanently “installed”.

Does using an extension cord use more electricity?

Longer answer, a short extension cord will make no difference to your electricity bill. If the load plugged into the extension was large enough to be at the rated current carrying capacity of the extension cord then it might get slightly warm to the touch.

Are extension cords bad for my electrical system?

However, most people don’t understand just how dangerous it can be to use the wrong kind of cord. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has found that extension cords are among the most dangerous electrical devices in our homes, due to improper cord sizing and use.

Can I plug my computer into an extension cord?

Always push the plug of an extension cord all the way into the wall and never pull it out by the cord. When you use power strips, only use one with each extension cord. Daisy-chaining them can overload a cord or the outlet it’s plugged into, and that could blow a circuit breaker or start a fire.