Encyclopedia

of Home Improvements

*Question & Answer Power Cords*

Dear Bob

I just bought a new router and the power cord does not have a three way grounded plug on the cord. Is this a defect or do I have to use an adapter?

Dear JB

The cord on your router is just fine. The cord is what is called Double Insulated. Double Insulation is a concept in safety in electric power tools which eliminates the need for the usual three wire grounded plug. All exposed metal parts are isolated from the internal metal motor components with protecting insulation. Double insulated power tools do not need to be grounded.

Dear Bob

I have an electric chain saw that works great close to my house. When I move further away from the house it seems to lose power. Any Suggestions?

Dear NB

Check your extension cord. When using a power tool at a considerable distance from a power source, be sure to use an extension cord that has the capacity to handle the current the tool will draw. An undersized cord will cause a drop in line voltage, resulting in overheating and loss of power.

When working outdoors with a tool, use an extension cord that is designed for outdoor use. This kind of cord is designated with "WA" on the cords jacket

To determine what size -- or gauge -- cord you will need, you will also have to determine how long you need the cord to be. A cord, based on its gauge, can power an appliance of a certain wattage only at specific distances. As the cord gets longer, the current carrying capacity of the cord gets lower. For example, a 16 gauge extension cord less than 50 feet in length can power a 1625 watt (W) appliance. A 16 gauge cord that is longer than 50 feet in length can only power an appliance up to 1250W.

If you are going to use the extension cord with two or more appliances, you must add together the wattage rating for all appliances used on the cord. The total of those wattage ratings will help you determine which gauge size you will need.

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