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VOLTAGE DROP IN ELECTRIC EXTENSION CORDS
When a long electric extension cord is used to connect an appliance or tool to the
generator, a certain amount of voltage drop or loss occurs in the extension cord
which reduces the effective voltage available for the appliance or tool.
The use of improper size or gauge of extension cords may cause unsafe or ineffi-
cient operation of your tool or appliance. It may also damage the tool or appliance.
Be sure that any extension cord that you use is rated to allow sufficient current flow
to the motor or appliance. Select the required wire gauge size according to the
chart below. Chart lists the minimum
wire gauge size for the proper extension cord.
EXTENSION CORD CHART
Use the right extension cord. An extension cord should have a suitable wire size
for the overall cord length and tool amperage rating. This is to prevent a serious
voltage drop, power loss and possible motor damage. Generally, heavier gauge
wire is required as cord length increases. Use the recommendations in this table.
Not normally available as flexible extension cord.
Extension
Cord Length
Amperage Rating of Tool
0.2 2.1-3.4 3.5-5.0 5.1-7.0 7.1-12.0 12.1-16.0
Recommended Wire Size (A.W.G. Gauge No.)
7.5m 18 18 18 18 16 14
15m 18 18 18 16 14 12
22.5m 18 18 16 14 12 10
30m 18 16 14 12 10 8
45m 16 14 12 10 8 8
60m 16 14 12 10 8 6
90m 14 12 10 8 6 4
120m 12 10 8 6 4 4
150m 12 10 8 6 4 2
180m 10 8 6 4 2 2
240m 10 8 6 4 2 1