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How to Choose a Power Cord for High-Wattage Appliances With Load Charts
Using electrical wires inappropriately can cause devastating accidents. According to the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), extension cords account for some 3,300 residential fires and around 4,000 injuries annually.
Most electrical fires result from short circuits. These accidents may also be due to overloading, appliance damage, and normal wear.
Meanwhile, personal injuries are usually due to tripping over cords. Many people also report burns from inadvertently making contact with exposed electrical conductors.
Although the CPSC’s statistics primarily target extension cords, they can apply to pretty much any electrical attachment. That includes power cords.
Fortunately, you don’t need to be static. You can reduce the risks of power cord malfunctions in your home by choosing the right product.
Read below for a beginner’s guide to selecting a proper power cord, with a focus on high-wattage appliances with load charts.
Unveiling Power Cords
Power cords are electrical cables designed to connect appliances directly to an electrical outlet, enabling you to operate the plugged equipment.
A power cord features a plug on one end and a connector on the other. The plug fits into an electrical outlet, while the connector attaches to the electronic device.
Most power cords let you plug devices directly into the wall sockets. You can also use certain cables with extension cords, depending on their current draw.
Nearly all modern power cords are three-pin plugs. The 3-pin plug design provides additional safety against electrical hazards, as you shall find out.
Power Cords versus Extension Cords
You may come across some publications using the terms “power cords” and “extension cords” interchangeably. But while both are vital electrical attachments, they have distinct roles.
Power cords provide the shortest means to plug an appliance into an electrical outlet. A classic example is the cable your refrigerator originally came with.
Meanwhile, extension cords primarily extend the reach of electricity to appliances. They come with a plug on one end and a mini power strip on the other.
Extension cords are particularly resourceful outdoors. You can use them to connect lawnmowers, leaf blowers, and lower-wattage power tools like the oscillating multi-tool.
Indoor extension cords exist, too. These attachments are mostly rated for lesser-duty electronics, such as televisions, computers, and water dispensers. They’re ideal for use in spacious indoor spaces.
Power cords also excel extension cords in their superior current handling abilities. While dynamics may vary, there’s a limit to the appliances you can plug into an extension cord.
Another core difference between power cords and extension cords is in their duration of use.
Power cords are inherently meant for permanent use. Once plugged into a wall outlet, you don’t need to disconnect them after every use. Simply switch off the receptacle to avoid standby power usage.
In contrast, extension cords offer temporary power flexibility.
Power Cords versus Power Strips
Power strips are functionally closer to extension cords than power cords. These electrical attachments have a plug on one end and a block of sockets on the other.
Expectedly, a power strip helps connect multiple appliances simultaneously. It’s what you’ll find in standard residential areas instead of extension cords.
Modern power strips come with extra safety features, including surge protection. Some also feature USB ports for added convenience.
Lengthwise, power strips are considerably longer than power cords but way shorter than extension cords.
What Are High-Wattage Power Appliances?
High-wattage appliances are equipment that utilize large amounts of electrical power. While interpretations may vary, an electronic device falls under the “high-wattage” category if it requires 1000+ watts to operate.
Noteworthy examples include water heaters, hair dryers, and electric heaters. Others are ovens, microwaves, and toasters.
To understand the concept of ‘high-wattage’ appliances better, you’ll want to familiarize yourself with amperage and voltage.
1. Amperage
Amperage denotes the rate at which electrical current flows through specific points in a circuit per unit time, typically seconds. Higher-amperage power cords can handle more current than their lower-amperage counterparts.
2. Voltage
Voltage refers to the pressure that drives electrons through a circuit. In high-voltage power cords, electrical current moves with a higher force from the outlet to the connected appliance.
3. Relationship with Wattage
Understanding the relationship between amperage, voltage, and wattage is crucial in calculating an appliance’s electrical cord. The formula is;
Amperage (Amp) X Voltage (V) = Wattage (Watt)
Note that wattage doesn’t necessarily correspond with the equipment’s performance.
For instance, a 100-watt bulb utilizes more wattage than a 75-watt bulb. However, the lesser-wattage light bulb will glow brighter if it comes with a higher lumen rating.
What Are Appliances With Load Charts?
Certain appliances come with load charts, revealing their power consumption in different operating conditions.
Load charts typically display current usage in amperage or wattage. Some also rely on kilowatt-hours (kWh).
Understanding an appliance’s load chart can help estimate its current handling abilities. It lets you safely connect the equipment to a power outlet, minimizing circuit overloads.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Power Cords For High-Wattage Appliances
1. Cord Type
Power cords vary in design. Fortunately, many stores maintain power cord types charts to help you hunker down on the right cable for your needs.
Popular design options include;
-
AC Power Cords
AC stands for alternating current. AC power cords convey alternating current from electrical circuits to appliances. They’re the standard cables in most US homes.
-
C13 and C14 Cords
C13 and C14 are connectors commonly used with computer devices. They’re safer for lower-wattage appliances, such as laptops and standard desktops.
-
C19 and C20 Cords
C-series power cords assigned higher numerals have superior current handling abilities. Therefore, C19 and C20 connectors are ideal for power-demanding appliances.
2. Amperage/Voltage/Wattage Compatibility
As hinted, amperage, voltage, and wattage ratings all determine a power cord’s efficiency. You can shop for a cord based on any of the three variables.
The conventional wisdom is to establish an appliance’s maximum amperage, voltage, and/or wattage. Then, choose a power cord that meets or exceeds the equipment’s current draw.
Using a cable with a lower current rating can cause circuit overloads.
3. Wire Gauge
Electrical wire gauges refer to cable thickness. The metric measures the diameter of conductor wires, exclusive of the insulation material and outer jacket. It’s measured in AWG (American Wire Gauge).
Like other electrical attachments, power cord gauge ratings are inversely proportional to their actual diameters. For instance, a 10-gauge cable has thicker conductors than a 20-gauge wire.
Most US households utilize the 14 and 12-gauge extension cords. But this doesn’t always apply to power cords, which typically connect heavier-duty appliances.
Note that a power cord’s gauge directly impacts its current-carrying capacity. The table below shows common wire cord gauges, alongside their corresponding amperages and some equipment you can safely use them with:
|
Wire Gauge (AWG) |
Maximum Ampacity (Amps) |
Supported Appliances |
|
18 |
10 |
Bedroom lamps and festive lighting |
|
16 |
13 |
Home entertainment systems and standard computer devices (laptops, desktops, etc.) |
|
14 |
15 |
Medium-duty power tools (circular saws, coffee makers, etc.) |
|
12 |
20 |
Refrigerators and washing machines |
|
10 |
30 |
Electric dryers and water heaters |
|
8 |
40 |
Electric vehicle (EV) chargers and hot tubs |
4. Cable Length
Cable length is particularly critical while shopping for extension cords. However, it applies to power cords too.
Most power cords are 5 - 6 feet long. Ideally, you want something that can comfortably reach your appliances.
A longer cord may cause entanglements and increase tripping hazards. Besides, longer cables are prone to voltage drop.
Conversely, a shorter power cord might connect too tightly. This could damage the cables by causing undue tension on the delicate conductors.
Consider bulk power cords if you need a cable of custom length.
5. Conductor Material
Most power cord conductors feature copper or aluminum.
While both materials are considerably durable, copper stands out for its superior lifespan and higher conductivity.
Aluminum is more reliable in carrying high-voltage current over longer distances. You certainly won’t need a very long power cord.
6. Polarized versus Non-polarized Cords
Polarized power cords have one prong larger than the other.
This isn’t a design flaw. Rather, it lets you plug the cable only from one direction to ensure proper electrical polarity.
A polarized power cord is excellent if you need to connect the cable to appliances with unique “Hot” and “Neutral” orientations.
In non-polarized cords, both prongs are of identical length. Such cables are compatible with many small residential appliances, including CD players and computer chargers.
Unless you have household appliances that require polarized connections, it’s best to stick to non-polarized cables. You can contact a licensed electrician to help with a PS5 power cord replacement.
PS5 power cords are special non-polarized, 2-prong cables that let you plug consoles into wall outlets. The cords come with figure-8 (IEC C7) connectors for easy plugging into the back of a console, as well as NEMA 1-15P 2-prong plugs for connecting them to the receptacles.
7. Plug Type
There are two plug types – two-prong and three-prong plugs.
3-prong power cords provide superior performance. The extra pin leads to a grounding wire, offering critical protection against shocks and electrocution.
Buy 2 pin power cord types if your home has pre-built two-slot wall outlets. Otherwise, insist on the safer 3-prong plugs.
Three-pin connectors are particularly useful for plugging appliances with metal casings.
8. Safety Features
Modern power cords come with various safety specifications, including;
-
Circuit Breakers
Power cords with integrated circuit breakers trip during overcurrents. This helps minimize damage to the cable and any connected appliances.
-
Surge Protectors
Surge protectors guard against electrical surges, measured as a sudden current increase lasting over three nanoseconds.
-
GFCIs
Ground-fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs) cut off the power supply upon detecting a ground fault. Ground faults occur when current flows towards unintended paths, such as nearby objects or your body.
Power cords with GFCI circuit breakers are particularly useful when working in moist environments like kitchens and bathrooms.
Note that these safety devices aren’t always built into the power cords themselves, but also the receptacles where you plug them into.
For instance, certain extension cords feature rocker switch wiring for enhanced convenience and flexibility. Many homes also have built-in GFCI outlets.
9. Intended Use Environment
Power cords are synonymous with the indoors. But if you’re planning to host a backyard party that requires using your appliances outdoors, you’ll need a cord robust enough to brave the harsh weather.
Look out for the designation SEOW on a power cord’s outer jacket. The initials stand for;
-
Service – Wire rated for 600 volts, designating it for heavier-duty applications
-
Elastomer – A polymer that’s incredibly durable and flexible
-
O – Cord with oil-resistant jacket (for single O) or oil-resistant jacket + insulation (for OO)
-
W – Weather-resistant, denoting the jacket can withstand moisture ingress, ultraviolet (UV) rays, and thermal damage
You might also consider a shielded power cord. Shielded cables guard against electromagnetic interference (EMI), which could impede current flow.
NOTE: All outdoor power cords can serve indoors, but not the other way around. Keep that in mind, especially if you anticipate using the cable outdoors quite often.
10. NEMA Ratings
The National Electrical Manufacturers Association is a US trade association that develops and publishes industry standards for electrical products. Power cords are among the many attachments within its scope.
NEMA ratings denote an electrical product’s environmental resilience. This information is crucial, particularly when looking for a power cord for outdoor usage.
NEMA 5-15P and NEMA 5-15R are some of the most common NEMA-rated power cords in US homes. The letter P in 5-15 denotes an equipment cord’s male plug, while the R implies the outlet or receptacle where the P connects.
In other words, a NEMA 5-15P is compatible with a NEMA 5-15R.
Meanwhile, the numbers 5 and 15 represent a cord’s current handling abilities. 5 stands for 125 volts, while 15 denotes 15 amps.
Remember that Watts = Amps x Volts. Therefore, NEMA 5-15 power cords can safely power appliances with a maximum wattage draw of 1,875 Watts.
Safeguarding Your Home With Heavy-Duty Power Cords
Choosing the right power cord is a proactive way to avert residential electrical hazards. Besides, it minimizes needless expenses on appliance repairs and replacements.
Remember to choose a power cord whose wattage rating matches or exceeds the total wattage of the equipment you intend to use it with.
We should also reiterate that wattage isn’t the sole determinant of a power cord’s efficiency. Consider other essential factors like the cable’s gauge, ampacity, and voltage rating.
More importantly, buying a robust power cord is only half the effort. The other half involves proper cable usage.
Some power cord safety tips include avoiding outlet overloads and keeping the surroundings dry. The latter practice is highly recommended, even if you’re using a GFCI power cord.
Experts also discourage running power cords behind the walls or under rugs. This minimizes tripping hazards, besides preventing heat damage.