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Best extension cord, Expert recommendations to choose

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799 views 16 replies 8 participants last post by  Sberryurkafarm  
#1 ·
I researched the best extension cord to find a reliable and durable option for outdoor use,something that could handle everything from yard work to powering heavy tools. After reading expert reviews from trusted sources like the new york times and comparing the customer feedback on amazon, two highly rated options kept appearing as the top recommendations.
  • IRON FORGE Extension Cord
https://www.amazon.com/Pack-Outdoor-Extension-Cord-Appliances/dp/B07MTPF72D/?th=1
  • Southwire Heavy Duty Extension Cord
https://www.amazon.com/Southwire-2549SWUSA1-100-Feet-Contractor-Extension/dp/B004QXUCDM/

The Iron forge cable is heavy duty 12/3 sjtw cords rated at 15 amps with grounded 3 prong plugs and bright yellow jackets for high visibility. They are water resistant and built for rugged use which makes them great for garden tools, outdoor appliances or workshop equipment. The fact that it is a two pack adds serious value if often needed to cover multiple areas.

On the other hand, the Southwire heavy duty extension cord which is 100 feet long, 12 gauge and made with a flexible sjtw jacket that resists moisture, abrasion and sunlight. It comes in a red, white and blue color scheme and it is UL listed for safety. This cord seems ideal for jobs where I need extra reach like when working across the yard, driveway or running power to remote tools during outdoor projects.

Both seem like great options but I am having trouble deciding which would suit my needs better. If you have used either one,I do really appreciate your advice.
Thanks in advance
 
P
#10 ·
I don't have a brand, there was one H. Depot used to carry "Yellow Jacket" easily bent and wind up. Even in 15° quite durable. The first I ever saw with lites end.

I have a few all with newer ends.

There was a blue colored one was pretty good as well .

Bought one at the electrical supply one time, and it was the worst. The cable was stiff. Even when hot out. Less strands in the wire. Only used a few times until that was out on the shelf.

Revived a few yellow flat ones in the last several years. They remain pretty pliable even in cold weather. I don't think you can get them anymore. OSHA banned their use.

With the offerings of cordless today it makes it so much easy to comply. They had implemented a rule where cords had to be elevated off the ground to eliminate trip hazards and abrasions that could potentially be an electrical hazard.
 
C
#13 ·
I cringe whenever I read about someone taking the advice of a source like the NY Times where it is a young person with a BA who is writing the article and summarizing what they have read with online reviews.

With extension cords there are 3 places where a manufacturer can cut costs and they are the gauge of the wire, the quality of the outer covering, and the manner in which the end connectors are attached. The best cords will cost more but provide a more durable extension cord.

Going with lighter gauge will damage equipment that runs hotter but save weight and money. When electrical corded chainsaws first appeared many users complained about the lack of power and failed to realize that they used too long and or too small a gauge extension cord. They ignore the user guides that specific gauge and length restrictions.

I have more than a dozen extension cord of varying lengths and gauges and go more by cost than any review.
 
S
#15 ·
Nominal V is now 120 and that is even rare, mine is 123,,, a long way from 110 when a lot of charts were written. Eveen a machine like a 140 welder that rates its output at 23A in allows for up to 100 ft of 14 amd tools like a circ or sawzall will never notice the difference on 14 vs 12. A guy is a timber frame contractor and routinely building barns from 150 or 200 ft needs a heavy cord.
 
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