"Extension cords are manufactured with a maximum capacity to handle electrical current, which is determined by the size or gauge of the wire used in the cord. For instance, a 16-gauge extension cord can handle a maximum of 13 amps, while a 14-gauge cord can handle up to 15 amps (or 1,800 watts), the same as a standard wall outlet in the US."
"When an appliance demands more power than the extension cord can handle, it results in an overload, which could lead to overheating. You really don't want your cord's insulation to melt, exposing the live wires and potentially sparking a fire. Any appliance requiring more than 1,800 watts should be on a dedicated circuit -- never connected by an extension cord."
Extension cords are suitable for running low-amperage electronics but not for high-demand appliances. Wire gauge determines an extension cord's amperage capacity: 16-gauge supports up to 13 amps and 14-gauge up to 15 amps (about 1,800 watts), matching a standard US outlet. Overloading an extension cord can cause overheating, melted insulation, exposed live wires, and fires. Any appliance that requires more than 1,800 watts must be placed on a dedicated circuit and never powered through an extension cord. Constantly running appliances like refrigerators still draw significant power and should be plugged directly into wall outlets.
Read at ZDNET
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