Molo
Member
I know that a general rule is to not reduce the size of wire, so then why are extension cord sizes for appliances so small? Are they sized to the appliances demand?
Thanks in Advance
Thanks in Advance
I am referring to things like space heaters. I had a 1,500 watt space heater plugged in yesterday and the plug and cord were getting quite warm!
I should clarify that I was referring to appliance cords not extension cords. I would be willing to bet that only 1 in 1,000 know that a 1,500 watt heater should not be plugged into a 15 amp circuit. If properly designed an electric space heater wouldn't be a hazard (there are probably some out there that are OK).
Most small room heaters are rated at 1500 watts, and the also all have a plug allowing use on a 15 amp receptacle.
This is true and there would be no problem if they came on for a few minutes and then shut off like you furnace but this heater is being used in NY where there is no power and it is running 24/7 which it was not designed to do therefore it does not hold up.
They are not designed to heat a house. They are designed to be foot warmers and the time of operation is not continuous.
It is also being plugged into an extension cord that is probably undersized and probably has an injection molded end on it. Those cannot take the heat as well as a proper wall receptacle can....but this heater is being used in NY where there is no power and it is running 24/7 which it was not designed to do...
I am referring to things like space heaters. I had a 1,500 watt space heater plugged in yesterday and the plug and cord were getting quite warm!
, and started wondering why so many appliance cords are so small.
It seems counter to the rule of not reducing wire size.