14-Gauge Vs. 12-Gauge Extension Cords: Which Is Best for Your Garage?

A garage is where innovation begins.

From investigating case studies of modern-day MNCs’ inception to commencing building projects, everything begins either in the backyard or a garage. And it would be an understatement to quote the benefits of working in a setup as exploratory as a garage. That being said, such a setting not only accommodates a diverse range of tools and equipment but also allows you the solitude of managing work uninterrupted. 

In all fairness, any garage where power tools hum and projects come to life depends on the safety and efficiency of the choice of equipment, such as extension cords. Often referred to as the unsung heroes of electrical configurations, extension cords link various devices and outlets. Choosing the incorrect cord, however, could cause overheating, voltage loss, or even damage to your priceless gear.

The commonly debated between 14 and 12-gauge extension cables is their respective benefits depending on the requirements of your garage. Knowing their distinctions guarantees that you will efficiently run your equipment without endangering safety.

Inside an extension cable, the gauge, also known as American Wire Gauge (AWG), measures the thickness of copper wire. A thinner wire, capable of holding higher electrical current, is indicated by a smaller AWG value. 

Americord, through one of their posts, states that whilst 12-gauge can withstand 15-20 amps, which makes them appropriate for larger loads, 14-gauge cord usually supports up to 15 amps.

Statistically, extension cords—often resulting from incorrect gauge selection—cause around 3,300 home fires yearly in the United States. 

While much has been discussed already, it would only be fair to discuss whether extension cords are safer in garages.

Wondering why we are addressing this concern?

Well, that’s due to the fact that garages usually accommodate various kinds and types of commercial equipment. As a result, one who often operates in a setting, such as a garage, must acknowledge a few details related to extension cords.

Are Extension Cords Safe to Use?

Using extension cables to temporarily power your power tools and other equipment is a simple solution. However, using an extension cord incorrectly can pose a fire and safety risk.

In response, it’s ideal to always check its rating to ensure your extension cord's amperage meets or surpasses the power requirements of your device. Additionally, keep in mind that extension cords, whether a 2-foot or 5 ft extension cord, are meant to be short-term fixes.

Furthermore, never connect two extension cords. Daisy-chaining is a practice that can overload extension cords, causing them to overheat and posing a fire risk.

Also, bear in mind that this is not an exhaustive list of all the safety precautions you should take when using extension cables. Always refer to the product’s safety guidelines prior to setting up.

14-Gauge Extension Cords: Features and Applications

• Technical Specifications You Must Know

Usually running up to 15 amps and 1,875 watts at 120 volts, a 14-gauge extension cord is rated for medium-duty uses. Tools and appliances with modest power consumption will find these cords ideal.

For a 10-amp drill or a 12-amp shop vac throughout a 50-foot length, a 14-gauge cord, for instance, can safely run without appreciable voltage loss. Voltage drop, particularly with high-draw devices, may become apparent for connections longer than 50 feet, though.

• Best Uses in a Garage Setting

In garages, 14-gauge cords are quite effective for running smaller- to medium-duty tools and equipment. 

Moreover, they're appropriate for:

• Usually using 5–10 amps, power tools include jigsaws, sanders, and drills.

• Shop appliances that include portable lights, fans, and battery chargers.

• Units pulling up to 12 amps are small compressors.

• Smaller garages or sporadic use, where cords are easier to coil or store than thicker ones. They are also reasonably priced, providing enough power for most do-it-yourself jobs without the more expensive cost of a thicker cord.

• Product Recommendations

1. 14/3 SJTW Indoor/Outdoor Extension Cord (15 ft)

• Features: black non-marring jacket, double-insulated for lifetime, molded NEMA 5-15 plug.

• Perfect for small garage configurations, running lights, or drills.

2. 14/3 Neon SJTW Extension Cord (50 ft)

• Features: Three-conductor construction, appropriate for indoor/outdoor use, brilliant neon color for visibility.

• Ideal For: Shop vacuum or fan, medium-length runs

3. 14/3 Flat Lighted Extension Cord (25 ft)

• Features: SJTW type wire; flat design lowers trip risks; illuminated plug shows electricity

• Ideal for neat garages using medium-duty machines that require a safe, obvious cord.

12-Gauge Extension Cords: Features and Applications

• Technical Specifications You Must Know

Designed for heavy-duty uses, a 12-gauge extension cord supports 15 to 20 amps and up to 2,400 watts at 120 volts. For longer cord lengths and high-power tools, its thicker conductors (2.053 mm) offer lower resistance. 

Even with equipment running 15 amps or more, a 12-gauge 15 amp extension cord guarantees consistent voltage throughout 50-100 feet, reducing the chance of overheating or performance problems.

• Best Uses in a Garage Setting

For heavy garage chores, especially for professional or frequent use, consider a 12-gauge cord. They are quite adept at running:

• Table saws (10–15 amps), angle grinders, or circular saws, and heavy power tools

• Big compressors using 15–20 amps

• Tools that need constant high amperage, such as welders or heaters

These strong cords are less likely to show voltage drop over extended distances and often feature weather-resistant coatings for outdoor use. Although their flexibility is relatively less than that of 14-gauge cord, their longevity makes them a mainstay for major garage projects.

• Product Recommendations

1. 12/3 SJTW Heavy-Duty Extension Cord (50 ft)

• Molded NEMA L5-20P plug locking plug to a molded L5-20R locking receptacle

• Best for running massive compressors or table saws in roomy garages.

• Temperature rating - 105°C

2. 12/3 Lighted Extension Cord (100 ft)

• Features: robust SJTW jacket, molded on NEMA 5-15P (male) plug to a lighted NEMA 5-15TT (female) for power indication, indoor/outdoor use

• Best for long runs for heavy tools like welders or grinders.

• Temperature rating - up to 105°C

3. 12/3 Flat Extension Cord (25 ft)

• Features: molded NEMA 5-15 plug, flat shape for less tripping, very visible color choices

• Perfect for light-duty chores in small garages with safety issues.

• Temperature rating - up to 105°C

14- and 12-Gauge Extension Cord Gauges: What You Must Know?

Now that you have an elementary comprehension of what to consider while selecting extension cables, you must determine which of the most prevalent gauges would suit particular situations.

Consequently, the 14- and 12-gauge extension cables are two types of cords. However, the length of the wire may influence how much power they can accommodate.

Take, for instance, a 12-gauge extension cable might function well for 16 to 20 amps. That being said, a 14-gauge cord, on the other hand, might be suitable for 14 to 15 amps for a 25 to 50-foot length.

Reflecting on it further, you’d soon come to realize that a 12-gauge cable can accommodate 14–15 amps. However, a 14-gauge cord can handle 11–13 amps for 100 feet. 

Making an electrical error that could be more harmful than beneficial is the last thing anyone needs.

What Should You Pick, Then?

It is clear from the information above that one's needs determine the different types of extension cords they choose. The length and power load that the cord can handle will serve as your reference. The most crucial factor is to take length and thickness into account.

When compared to 14-gauge, 12-gauge extension cables are reckoned to be thicker.

Remember that 12-gauge steel sheets are 0.1084 inches in thickness, while 14-gauge metal sheets are 0.0785 inches. This is so because the latter is 2 ¼" x 2 ¼" in dimensions, whereas the 14-gauge frame makes use of steel tubing of 2 ½" x 2 ½". 

Simply said, they are safe for settings such as garages, workshops, and commercial buildings. 

An Ideal Extension Cord for Garage Equipment

The length of the extension cable will also have an impact on its ability to power your garage equipment. The power must go a greater distance if the extension cord is longer. 

However, a longer length strains the outlet and the machine by reducing the total amps that reach it. The shortest extension cord that can go to the operator's intended destination is what you should use.

Generally speaking, the length of the extension cord and the power cord should never match. Resistance exists in extension cords. More resistance and less power reaching your device are the results of longer lines. 

Insufficient power from extension leads will deprive your machine of the proper quantity of electricity. Because the motors on your cleaning equipment must work harder to bring energy to the unit, longer extension cables will shorten their lifespan.

Therefore, your device must receive 15 amps if it needs that amount. The distance you plan to extend the line and the amps your equipment requires should be taken into account when sizing an extension cord to ensure it is providing enough power.

The Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) states that the following are the typical cord lengths and amp restrictions by length:

You will require the following when using 50 or 25 ft extension cords:

• 16 Gauge for Amps 1–13

• 14 Gauge for Amps 14-15

• 12-10 Gauge for Amps 16-20

You will require the following when using 100-foot extension cords:

• 16 Gauge for Amps 1–10

• 14 Gauge for Amps 11–13

• 12 Gauge for Amps 14-15

• 10 Gauge for Amps 16–20

Reading Letter Codes of Extension Cords

1. S: General use

The letter S signifies that the extension cord is ideal for general usage and without any distinguishing features. If no other letters are present, this extension cord is unsuitable for outdoor use and not oil-resistant. General extension cables are typically not rated for heavy-duty applications.

2. W: Rated for outdoor use

W implies that the extension cord is fit for outside use and resistant to weather. These extension cords' insulating shields protect the cables from dampness.

3. J: 300 Voltage Insulation

Usually representing junior in an electric extension, the letter J denotes the 300-volt rating of the insulation of an extension cord. Designed for lower-voltage uses below 600 volts, this extension cord is

4. T: Vinyl thermoplastic jacket

The letter T indicates that the extension cord has a jacket composed of vinyl thermoplastic.

5. P: Parallel wire construction

The parallel wire structure, represented by the symbol P, is ideal for air conditioners and domestic extension cords. It is formed by joining many extension wires.

6. O: Oil-resistant

A user can utilize an oil-resistant extension cord in situations where fuel and fertilizer may come into contact with the cable. The letter "O" indicates oil resistance and should not be mistaken for outdoor use. Oil-resistant extension cords can also be rated for outdoor or heavy-garage use with the letter W. E: Made from TPE.

Comparing 14-Gauge and 12-Gauge Extension Cords

Both 12- and 14-gauge extension cords have fuses in a garage; the ideal option depends on your specific requirements. This is a fair comparison:

• For over 50 feet, a 12-gauge cord keeps voltage better than a 14-gauge cord, guaranteeing steady power for high-draw equipment. For shorter runs, both do rather well.

• Small garages would find 14-gauge cord easier to move and store as they are lighter and more flexible. For constant, heavy use, a 12-gauge cord is relatively more robust.

• Usually less expensive, a 14-gauge cord is a reasonable choice for sporadic do-it-yourselfers. Though more expensive, 12-gauge cords provide professionals with more capacity and a longer lifetime.

• For smaller garages with tools under 12 amps or for lighter jobs, 14-gauge can do the job. However, for frequent use, extended cord runs, or heavy-duty equipment, consider employing 12-gauge.

Neither cord is intrinsically better; the choice depends on your gear’s power requirements, length, and usage frequency. Owning both gauges guarantees safety and efficiency by allowing you to match the cord to the job in a flexible garage configuration.

Selecting A Suitable Extension Cord for Your Garage

Choosing between a 14-gauge and a 12-gauge extension cord for your garage implies weighing environmental considerations, tool power needs, and cord length. 

An extension cord's gauge tells you how much safe electrical current it can handle. AWG (American Wire Gauze) ratings all throughout North America help define gauge size. Since smaller gauges of extension cabling are constructed from thicker cable, they have more capacity for current. A cable can provide its running equipment with more power the smaller its gauge number.

Lower gauges—or thicker cables—can run more current than thinner or higher gauges. A 12-gauge extension cord will thus have stronger wire and be able to handle more electricity than a 14-gauge cable. Reduced gauges also translate into reduced opportunity for overheating, which may cause an electrical fire.

When running a garage extension cord to power machinery, you want the correct gauge. Helping non-electricians grasp the flow of electricity via an extension cord comes from numerous directions. One of the better comparisons for understanding electricity is highways, where current is the number of cars that can go on them.

As a consequence, selecting premium Americord supplies guarantees dependability and safety for your garage tasks. Whether a handyman or a weekend DIY practitioner, knowing such cable guidelines assists you in making a wise decision to keep your garage effectively powered.