Can Outdoor Extension Cords Be Used In Rain
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Can Outdoor Extension Cords Be Used In Rain? How To Protect

Can outdoor extension cords be used in rain? In the first place, if the correct extension cable is used, yes. Many extension cords are built to withstand rough areas, abrasion, and weather, but not all cables are created equal.
How Can Outdoor Extension Cords Be Safe From Rain? will go through the dangers of utilizing wires in the rain and provide safety tips. We’ll end by discussing how to use an extension cable while it’s pouring safely.

Outdoor Extension Cords

Outdoor extension cords are a type of cord that shields your appliances from the elements, including rain, snow, and wind. They are the same as the extension cords used inside. Still, they have extra features like waterproofing materials and an electric line built into the cord to protect against electrical shocks caused by wet conditions. In many ways, it’s like having a brand-new appliance!

Which Approach Is Ideal For Your Particular Circumstance?

 For A Single Outlet That Is Not Used Often

Use a cord connector or cover to keep the extension cable’s end dry for a single outlet that is not frequently used. It is the best option if you won’t use your cord frequently or for a long time.

  • Remember that using the extension cord requires physically opening a cord cap.

For A Single Outlet That Is Used Often

Use an outdoor-rated extension cable with a moisture-resistant plug, such as a NEMA 5-15P, for a single outlet that is often used. This is the ideal choice if you need to use your outside outlet frequently and for a long time.

  • Use a connector or cover to shield the cord’s other end from moisture.

For Multiple Outlets

Use an outdoor-rated extension cable with a switch to regulate power flow if there are numerous outlets. It is ideal if you need to utilize several outlets, such as a work shed, art studio, greenhouse, etc.

  • Use a connector or cover to shield the cord’s other end from moisture.

What If Your Extension Cord Is Already Wet?

  •  If the outside extension cable you left out in the rain still has some power, switch off the circuit breaker for the outlet where the extension cord is powering. The remaining portion of the cable can then be allowed to dry out before you try to use it once more.
  •  If your extension cord is wet and out of power, you can use a tiny, light-duty indoor extension cable to get electricity from the outside extension cord. The other end may remain connected to the outlet while you let this minor inside extension dry. You may swap out your wet outer extension cable with the little interior extension after it has dried up.

One more thing: If your house is situated in an area with a lot of rain, like Seattle, think about placing an external outlet close to where you need to plug your gadgets in (e.g., near your patio). It will come in handy when it rains!

How To Protect Outdoor Extension Cord From Rain

  • First, sanitize the cable. Take a piece of sandpaper and clean the rubber to ensure nothing is hidden between the rubber insulator.
  • Apply the sealant in step two. After cleaning is complete, get some silicone grease (available at hardware stores) and use your fingers to spread it over the cord. But if you don’t like grease, there are other things to consider. It’s by far the best way to keep rain from coming.
  • Try putting on a plastic glove. Slipping a vinyl glove over your chord is one of the simplest methods to protect it from the weather. The benefit of a vinyl glove is that you can remove it and make any necessary cuts.
  • Use hose clamps or tape in step four. Using tape or hose clamps is feasible if silicone oil is unavailable to you or if you want a longer-lasting kind of protection. Useless metal items that can carry electricity and produce short circuits should not be used.
  • Take the cord out from under the ground. That’s yet another great way to keep your cable safe. It will shield the grounding plug, which is extremely sensitive to moisture, from contact with water.

Tips for keeping your outside extension cable in good condition, so it lasts longer

Tips On Maintaining Your Outdoor Extension Cord So It Lasts Longer

Do the following to shield your outside extension cord from the rain:

Use Connections, Plugs, And Sockets

Use connections, plugs, and sockets that are waterproof. Typically, they are color-coded to show whether they are intended for indoor or outdoor usage. It’s crucial to avoid using them interchangeably since doing so might compromise insulation.

Keep Away Cord

Keep your extension cable away from the wind’s direction. If you live in a windy area, keep your outdoor extension cord away from flower beds or anything else that can act as a fan and blow the cord around. Also, if possible, try to keep bushes and plants away from your electrical wires. These plants’ leaves can potentially speed up corrosion inside the cable and an unwelcome moisture buildup around it.

keep The Extension Cord Dry

Make every effort to keep your outside extension cord dry. Although it might seem straightforward, there are various ways to do this. For example, keep your extension cord under solid outdoor benches close to where it plugs (inside or outside). The extension cord’s free end may then be positioned over the top of the bench and plugged in from below. Your extension cord will remain dry and secure in this manner during rain.

How Can You Waterproof An Outdoor Extension Cord?

  • Ensure that the cord is PVC or vinyl-jacketed. If you have a light-duty cable, think about switching to a waterproof one because the jacket’s goal is to keep moisture out. Its resistance to the sun, chemicals, and water will all be improved by doing this.
  • Leave a loop at the end of the cable to stop water from dripping into the cord when it’s hung from an outside outlet.
  • If you have a plug-in timer, you might want to use it even while it’s raining.
  • If your wire from the outlet becomes wet, connect a single-outlet surge protector to it before joining your outdoor appliances. As a result, a wall of water will separate the two halves.
  • Keep your cable away from damp areas like the basement or garage.

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