Best Outdoor Extension Cords: A Staple For All Your Devices

As there are a plethora of options available in the market, choosing the best one from them can feel like a tiring task. We understand that not everyone is well-aware of the things to consider or features to look for in the best outdoor extension cords. For this reason, we have curated this buyer’s guide. 

Which Type of Extension Cord Should You Buy?

When you are looking for an extension cord, look at its ends. It will have either three or two prongs. And outdoor cords usually come with a three-prong plug.

These are the types of extension cords:

Three-pronged extension cord

A three-prong cord is made to transfer electricity to your electronic devices safely. These 3-prongs ground the voltage to protect any appliance from the electric shock and is only used with an outlet with a ground slot. But yes, connecting the 3-prong plug cord with a 2-prong plug extension can be risky. 

Two-pronged extension cord

A two-prong plug can be used mostly indoors because it is not safe to use outside. It does not provide safety! This two-prong plug can be used with small appliances but not with a two-prong cord.

Contractor

Contractor-grade extension cables are designed for heavy-duty use on the job site. They can withstand high heat and cold, and they have the exceptional abrasion resistance and elasticity. Contractor extension cords include high-visibility jackets and are more resistant to oil and chemicals. These extension cords are ideal for use in both the shop and the garage.

What Are Some Important Features To Consider When Buying an Extension Cord?

You should consider various factors when selecting the best extension cord like power ratings, gauge, safety, length, plug, or some additional features like lighted plug ends, etc. Here are some important features:

Cord length

The length of the extension cord depends on the size you need. These cords come in different sizes; however, longer cords can be used outdoors so that you can move freely with gardening equipment. But always avoid going for excessive cord lengths because they become tangled, and then there is a risk of fall hazards or trips. Never fit multiple extension cords together to extend the length.

Cord durability

Do you want a cord for the outdoors? For this, the cord needs to be sturdy and rough! So, buy a cord made up of thick material and a hard coating to protect it from sharp stones and gravel. In this case, you should search for a durable one, and it’s a very good idea to buy a cord with reinforced blades. Extension cords with reinforced blades are resistant to wear and tear and last longer.

Light or heavy duty

You must be confused about what does light and heavy-duty mean? When you see heavy-duty or light-duty written as part of the features of an extension cord on its packaging, light-duty is used for small electronics, and heavy-duty is used for heavy equipment. The number of prongs also matters because two-prong cords are made for light-duty use.

Heavy-duty cords are grounded and are covered with multiple coatings to insulate the wiring of the cord. Heavy-duty extension cords are mostly used outdoors, and light-duty cords are used indoors.

Maximum load

Every extension cord has an amperage rating that tells you how much load it can handle. The higher the amperage rating of the cord is, the more powerful cord it will be. Some cords have an electrical rate of 13 amps, and some can handle up to 15 amps.

The thicker the extension wire, the more electricity it will carry. A 12 gauge will be perfect for heavy-duty operations. However, the electrical rating is very important to check when buying an extension cord. If the extension cord is overloaded, it can get hot, plus it won’t be safe for heavy-duty use because it can catch fire.

Weatherproof

The best outdoor cord will be water-resistant and can also resist sunlight and cope with the changes in different weather conditions. An indoor cord may not be weatherproof and would be unsafe to use outside.

What Are Some Terms To Know Before Shopping for the Best Outdoor Extension Cords?

What are watts? (wattage)

Watts measures the resulting energy, which is indicated by volts and multiplied by amps.

What are volts? (voltage)

Volts measure the resistance or pressure of the electricity flow.

What are amps? (amperes)

Amps measure the amount of electricity flowing through the cable inside the extension cord.

What Are the Prices of Outdoor Extension Cords?

If you want an extension cord for indoor use, the prices of these cords are under $20. You can easily choose the gauge and length in this price range to use at home.

You can get a heavy-duty extension cord in the range of $20 to $40. These are available in different colors with various lengths. However, if you want to invest in the best product from high-end brands, expect to pay a price of up to $100.