Amps of outdoor extension cord vs receptacle amps
#1
04-04-19, 03:56 PM
Amps of outdoor extension cord vs receptacle amps
Sorry, if this post is in the wrong forum. But it's about electricity.
I want to use a shredder in the garden. It will draw 14 amp through 12 gauge extension cord (50 ft) and exceed 80% of the rating capacity of 15A receptacle (i.e.12 amps). I am concerned about my old wiring that can overheat and start a fire. Question: should I use a smaller or bigger gauge for the extension cord, or to plug the cord into the 20A receptacle? Or not to worry at all, everything would be OK?
I want to use a shredder in the garden. It will draw 14 amp through 12 gauge extension cord (50 ft) and exceed 80% of the rating capacity of 15A receptacle (i.e.12 amps). I am concerned about my old wiring that can overheat and start a fire. Question: should I use a smaller or bigger gauge for the extension cord, or to plug the cord into the 20A receptacle? Or not to worry at all, everything would be OK?
#2
04-04-19, 04:00 PM
Group Moderator
Thread moved to electrical. (you didn't even get a chance to blink)
The 80% only pertains to continuous use devices..... not your shredder.
However.... I'd highly recommend plugging that shredder in to a 20A circuit.
The 50' #12 cord is fine for that application.
The 80% only pertains to continuous use devices..... not your shredder.
However.... I'd highly recommend plugging that shredder in to a 20A circuit.
The 50' #12 cord is fine for that application.
