Extension Cords Safety

Electrician NewsNovember 11, 2021

This article has been published at Old Bridge Observer over 10 years ago on July 21st, 2007. It shows our commitment to help our customers as much as possible to give he best advice for Electricity and Safety at your home.

Bill’s Safety Circuit
Bill Root, Licensed Master Electrician, Answers Your Questions About Electricity And Safety

LIFE EXTENSION
I have the good fortune of working  with many real estate professionals  serving the public in the Old Bridge  area. My skills are tested as the result  of home inspections made by  specialty companies highly trained in  this field. One location in a home that  especially comes to my attention is  the attic. On too many occasions, I  have seen hazardously performed  electrical installations in this out of  the way spot.

The use of extension cords to wire  anything in a home is an accident  waiting to happen. The extension cord  of choice seems to be the 3-wire  outdoor type which can be found in  various colors. This material is not an  approved National Electrical Code  wiring method and therefore is not  safe. One home owner installed a  receptacle in the attic using an extension cord, then proceeded to  wire ceiling fans with the same  material. When finished, all there  was to do was simply plug the  extension cord into the receptacle to  supply power to the newly improperly  wired ceiling fans. Just because it  works doesn’t mean it is safe.

Please, when tackling a home project,  consult a professional or a “how to”  book to keep your home in one piece  and your family safe.

Remember, knowledge is power -  don’t be left in the dark.

Email your questions to:  [email protected]

ROOT ELECTRIC
703-494-3989
Putting your safety first since 1986.