All You Need To Know About 10 Gauge Extension Cords

Considering that practically every household has at least one or two extension cords just lying around somewhere, it’s not surprising that few people give them much thought. “You don’t have a convenient outlet nearby – just grab a random extension cord. What’s the worst that could happen?” 

Unfortunately, many things could go wrong if you don’t use the right cord for your needs.  

If you want to be on the safer side, you’ll need to use the appropriate extension cords for the devices you’re plugging into them. The more powerful the device, the more powerful the cord you’ll need, and if you’re looking for the most heavy-duty option, you’ll need to go for a 10 gauge extension.  

Learn all there is to know about 10 gauge extensions and check out some of the best safety tips below.  

The fundamentals of extension cords 

Before we get into the specifics of the 10 gauge extension cord, it’s essential to go over the fundamentals of extension cords as a whole. When choosing the best option for your needs, you’ll need to pay attention to   

• Amperes, volts, and watts;  
• Gauge rating.  

Amperes measure the current or the amount of power that the cord can handle. Volts measure the electrical force, while watts measure the amount of electricity used. Your extension cord will usually carry a rating for the amperage and voltage.  

You’ll need to ensure that the cord can handle at the very least the same amperage and voltage as all the combined devices, tools, and appliances you plan to plug into it.  

The gauge, also known as the American Wire Gauge or AWG, refers to the diameter of electrical conductors inside your extension cord (aka the diameter of the copper wires).  

The rating is based on the number of drawing operations necessary to create a copper wire. Hence, the lower the rating, the thicker the wire, and the higher the capacity of your cord. Most commonly, you’ll come across:  

• Light-duty 16 gauge extension cords;  
• Medium-duty 14 gauge extension cords;  
• Heavy-duty 12 gauge extension cords;  
• Ultra heavy-duty 10 gauge extension cords.  

As a general rule, it’s much better to use a more powerful extension cord with a lower AWG rating than it is to use a cord with a higher rating.  

What is the ultra-heavy duty 10 gauge extension cord used for?

10 gauge extension cords are thicker and more powerful, with much higher capacity than the conventional cord in every household. It’s suitable for devices, tools, and appliances that need more power to run.  

10 gauge cords are commonly used for:  

• Generators;  
• Compressors  
• Tile saw  
• Lawnmowers  
• Heavy machinery.  

12 gauge cords can be suitable for:  

• Grinders;  
• Chainsaws;  
• Impact hammers.  

14 gauge cords are ideal for:  

• Hedge trimmers;  
• Drills;  
• Sanders.  

16 gauge cords are the most common, frequently used for:  

• Small household tools and appliances;  

• Fans;  
• Lamps.  

Regardless of the AWG rating, you’ll need to ensure that you use your extension cords in safe environments. 

Whereas you can freely use an outdoor cord inside, for example, never use indoor cords outside. Indoor cords aren’t designed to withstand extreme temperatures or moisture. 

Importance of the proper extension cord length  

As mentioned, it’s always better to use a more powerful extension cord that can handle higher amperage and voltage than your tools. Of course, you’ll also need to be aware that the length of your extension cord impacts the amps/volts it can handle. Longer cords always experience a significant power drop.  

Therefore, while a 25-foot 10 gauge extension cord can easily handle up to 20 amps, a 150-foot 10 gauge cord can only go up to 15 amps. Here’s a chart that can help you decipher which gauge and length of cord you’ll need:  

25ft extension cords:  

• 16 gauge for up to 13 amps;  
• 14 gauge for up to 15 amps;  
• 12 or 10 gauge for up to 20 amps.  

100ft extension cords:  

• 16 gauge for up to 10 amps;  
• 14 gauge for up to 13 amps;  
• 12 gauge for up to 15 amps;  
• 10 gauge for up to 20 amps.  

Although longer extension cords are usually more convenient, giving you greater flexibility, it’s always in your best interest to go for the shortest cord possible.  

Safety tips you’ll need to keep in mind when using 10-gauge extension cords

10-gauge extension cords can be a hazard when not used carefully. An overloaded cord can overheat, damage your appliances/tools, and even result in a fire. Some safety tips you’ll always want to follow when using 10-gauge (or other) extension cords include:  

• Never plug one extension cord into another extension cord;  
• Avoid using extension cords for permanent electrical connections;  
• Unplug extension cords that are getting hot;  
• Throw away damaged extension cords (exposed wire, abrasions, black prongs, etc.);  
• Secure extension cords in areas with high foot traffic;  
• Avoid exposing extension cords to extreme heat or cold;  
• Keep the extension cord away from moisture. 

 
Additionally, never try to create DIY solutions for your extension cord, like shortening/prolonging the cable or removing the grounding prong if you don’t have a grounded plug for it.

Final thoughts

Heavy-duty 10 gauge extension cords are beneficial for powerful machinery, but they need to be handled with care. Ensure that you’re using your extension cords safely and correctly to avoid causing damage to your tools and appliances, electrical installations, and others in your vicinity.