10 Extension Cord Tips That Saved My Garage (and Maybe My House)

If you’re like me, you’ve probably used extension cords for everything from stringing up the Christmas lights to turning the garage into a workshop. They’re our go-to solution when the nearest outlet is just a bit too far. But as handy as these cords are, they come with their own set of rules to keep us safe from a nasty shock or a fire.

Let’s face it, nobody wants to end up in the emergency room or having to call the fire department. So, here’s how we can keep things powered up safely without crossing our fingers every time we plug something in.

Opt for GFCI-Protected Extension Cords

When you’re picking out extension cords, make sure to get ones with GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) protection. This little feature is a big deal—it cuts the power if it senses any abnormal flow of electricity, which can happen during a power surge.

Plug and Unplug with Care

Every time you use an extension cord, take a moment to make sure it’s in top shape. Frayed or exposed wires? Don’t use it.

Ready to plug in? Push the plug all the way into the outlet until the prongs are fully engaged—this ensures a safe and secure connection.

When it’s time to unplug, resist the urge to yank the cord from a distance. That’s a surefire way to damage the plug or socket. Instead, grasp the plug itself and gently pull it out.

Never Run Electrical Cords Under Rugs or Through the Doorway

It might seem like a neat trick to run your extension cord under a rug or through a doorway to keep it out of sight, but it’s a risky move. Tucking cords away like this can trap heat around the cable, making it a hidden fire hazard waiting to happen.

Plus, running cords from one room to another isn’t just a tripping hazard—it also stretches the cord, which can fray and wear it out quicker than you’d think. If you’re powering up at a distance, consider setting up a temporary power distribution box instead.

Avoid Securing Cords with Staples or Nails

When you’re setting up your space, it might be tempting to grab a staple gun or some nails to keep those extension cords in place. But here’s the thing: using metal fasteners on your cords is like inviting trouble right into your home.

Piercing the cord with staples or nails can damage the insulation, which is your first line of defense against shocks and shorts.

If you need to secure your cord, use plastic clips that are designed for the job. They’ll keep your cords tidy and, more importantly, intact.

Check the Cord Before You Plug In

Before you plug in that extension cord, take a moment to read through the safety instructions—yes, even if you think you know them by heart.

Especially important is using childproof covers on any open sockets to keep your little adventurers safe.

And remember, never, ever cut corners by removing the ground pin to make it fit a different outlet. If your cord gets hot during use, unplug it.

Don’t Ignore Cord Damage

Think of your extension cord like a trusty hammer. Just as you wouldn’t use a hammer with a loose head, you shouldn’t use a cord that’s showing wires or has damaged prongs.

Check your cords often for any signs of wear. If you spot trouble, don’t slap on some duct tape and call it good. That’s just a temporary and unsafe fix. Instead, get a new end installed or, better yet, replace the whole cord if the damage is extensive.

Only Use Extension Cords Temporarily

Extension cords are a handy tool for temporary setups, but they’re not a long-term solution for your home’s power needs. Using them as permanent fixtures can be risky, not to mention it’s against electrical codes in most places.

If you find yourself relying on extension cords regularly, it’s a sign to upgrade your home’s electrical system. Consider hiring a professional to add more outlets where you need them.

Prevent Overloading Your Cords

To keep your home safe, it’s important to understand the limits of your extension cord. Each cord can handle only so much electrical load before it becomes a fire hazard. Always check the wattage rating on your cord and ensure the total wattage of the plugged-in appliances doesn’t exceed this limit.

If you’re using multiple devices on one cord, add up their wattages to ensure you stay within safe boundaries. Overloading can lead to overheating and even fires, so keeping an eye on those numbers could save you from serious trouble.