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An outdoor extension cord is a must-have for every homeowner. There’s always going to be a job or project that will drag you away from a power outlet. When that occurs, you need a quality extension cord that won’t burn out or get damaged by outdoor threats. You also want to keep your tools safe while running them on electric power. Here are some of the top outdoor extension cords that meet these requirements.
Summary List
- Best Overall: Iron Forge Cable Outdoor Extension Cord
- Best Value: Otimo Outdoor Extra Heavy Duty Extension Cord
- Honorable Mention: US Wire and Cable Outdoor Extension Cord
- Best Multi-Use: Dewenwils Green Outdoor Tri-Tap Extension Cord
- Best for Projects: Southwire Vinyl Outdoor Extension Cord
- Best Premium: Southwire Outdoor Extension Cord
- Best Short Option: GE Outdoor Extension Cord
- Best for Just About Everything: GoGreen Power Outdoor Extension Cord
Best Outdoor Extension Cords: Reviews & Recommendations
Best Overall
Iron Forge Cable Outdoor Extension Cord
Best Value
Otimo Outdoor Extra Heavy Duty Extension Cord
Honorable Mention
US Wire and Cable Outdoor Extension Cord
Best Multi-Use
Dewenwils Green Outdoor Tri-Tap Extension Cord
Best for Projects
Southwire Vinyl Outdoor Extension Cord
Best Premium
Southwire Outdoor Extension Cord
Best Short Option
GE Outdoor Extension Cord
Best for Just About Everything
GoGreen Power Outdoor Extension Cord
Our Verdict on the Best Outdoor Extension Cords
Our top pick is Iron Forge Cable Outdoor Extension Cord, a multi-purpose cord perfect for heavy-duty tools. It’s safe, durable, and has a lot of extra features.
Those who need a longer cord but are on a tight budget might want to consider getting the Otimo Outdoor Extra Heavy Duty Extension Cord.
Tips
- Never use indoor cords for outdoor purposes. They are not designed to withstand temperature variations, moisture, and other threats. Outdoor extension cords have better insulation and stronger jackets, which makes them safer and more reliable for outdoor use.
- Try to pick a cord length according to your specific needs. Don’t go for longer cords when not necessary; they have less capacity to carry on an electric charge. For example, if your backyard is 25 feet long, you don’t need a 50-foot extension cord.
- Pick a wire gauge carefully. Thicker wires have lower gauge numbers. A lower gauge ensures a better flow of electricity. Cords mostly range from 10 to 12 gauge. If you have heavy-duty tools, stick with these numbers. On the other hand, small tools and home appliances can easily work with higher-gauge cords.
Benefits of Outdoor Extension Cords
- Water-resistant. Outdoor extension cords are designed to be used outside in warm and cold weather. The wire cord is encapsulated in a sleeve that protects it from moisture and abrasion, so you are able to use these cords in the rain. Make sure the outdoor extension cord is rated for wet weather conditions.
- Flexible. Because many home projects require the use of power, some extension cords need to be longer in length. Fortunately, most cords are designed to roll up for easy storage on the wall or on a reel.
- Reach a distant outlet. Long extension cords will help you reach a power source no matter where in the house or yard you need power. Make sure that the cord is long enough to reach your outlet with plenty of play so that you don’t overstretch the cord.
- Show off Christmas lights. When wiring your house for the annual Christmas light display, make sure you purchase an outdoor extension cord that is rated for outside use. Keep all cords attached along a wall so there will be less chance of someone tripping over the cord in the dark.
Types of Extension Cords
Two-Pronged Cords
A plug with two prongs can be used in any extension cord; however, the two-pronged cord will not be grounded. Whether using a two-pronged or a three-pronged outlet, the two-prong cords do not have the protective safety of a grounded cord. As a result, your equipment will not be safely grounded when a two-plug cord is used with a three-pronged outlet or extension cord.
Three-Pronged Cords
Three-pronged plugs have the round prong below the two vertical slots on the extension cord. This is what helps ground the wires. Experts recommend that you only use a three-pronged plug with a three-pronged extension cord. Grounding means that the plug has a ground wire that will reduce the risk of fire or electrical shock. It protects your hands from any electrical charge.
Outdoor Extension Cords Pricing
- Under $20: Many extensions cords are available within this range with the length and gauge choice that will work for you to use at home.
- $20-$40: Here you will find a wide range of heavy-duty extension cords. These are available in a variety of color choices, each with various lengths.
- $40-$100: There are many choices of quality extension cords at this price point. Some come with retractable reels, and some have longer, thicker cords for commercial usage.
Key Features
Gauge
The gauge of wire used in an outdoor extension cord refers to the amount of electrical current running through the wire. It tells you the amount a wire can safely handle. Heavy-duty extension cords are always grounded, meaning they have a three-slot plug to better handle various appliances.
Amperage Rating
Amperage rating refers to the electrical current that flows through an electrical conductor. It is a function of current and wire gauge based on the length of the wire. You need to make sure that your cord is designed to handle the current that you will use. Check the product labels for the exact information.
Length
Outdoor extension cords come in many colors and lengths. It’s all about being safe when the extension cord is in use. You want to use an extension cord that will reach your project and allow enough cord so that it will reach your project and have plenty of cord without it stretching too far. This will help to ensure safety.
Insulation
Outdoor extension cords should be marked with a “W” on the side or end to indicate that they are designed for outdoor use. Outdoor cords should have more insulation than indoor cords. They should be made with plastic or vinyl covers. They may come in bright colors such as yellow and orange, and they need to be much more heavy-duty than an indoor extension cord.
Other Considerations
- Usage. Some projects will be quick and easy, and some will take longer. If you are using the extension cord for bigger, longer-use projects, make sure you check the power rating. If you are using the extension cord for quick projects, make sure that you wrap up and secure the cord when you are finished.
FAQs
Yes, they are perfectly safe and useful for indoor purposes. However, you should never do the opposite and use indoor cords outside. An indoor extension cord is not protected enough to withstand outdoor threats, so it can cause accidents and a lot of damage.
You can prolong the life of your outdoor extension cord by storing it properly. Make sure to wrap and put it in a dry place after each use. Try to avoid overextending and straining the cord while using it. When unplugging it, pull it out from the power socket by gripping the plug and not the cord itself. You should also avoid driving over the cord with your vehicle.
This type of cord is waterproof. As long as it doesn’t have cracks or tears, water can’t damage it. However, watch out for the ends of the cords. If the connections are not sealed properly against the weather, water could get in and cause a short circuit.
