Is it okay to use a extension cord to connect multiple power tools?
Posted on March 10th, 2010 by admin
I have only 2 outlet power in garage. All of them are far away.
as long as they aren’t running at the same time….
I have two 25 foot 12 gauge cords with metal double outlet boxes on the end, in my shop, that I use when I need a corded tool out in the middle of the floor….
I would not use this for a tablesaw, or an air compressor….
March 10th, 2010 at 8:43 am
Yes, it should be fine. As long as you are not running the power tools for long periods of time and the cords are at least 14AWG but preferred 12 AWG.
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Master Electrician
March 10th, 2010 at 9:20 am
It is ok, so long as you don’t overload the circuit (both garage outlets are probably on the same circuit anyway). It is most likely a 15 Amp circuit, which means you’re not going to be able to use more than one power tool at once.
You can calculate the current with this formula (if the tool doesn’t state it already). I = P / E, or ( Amps = Watts / Volts)
HOpe this helps!
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March 10th, 2010 at 9:33 am
Only one at a time. Better safe than sorry. I know its a hassle to plug and unplug but the alternative will either put you on funniest home videos or in the hospital. You might want to install some outlets out there or better yet, go ahead and put out the extra for an electrician to come in so you don’t encounter this problem on your future projects.
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March 10th, 2010 at 9:47 am
as long as they aren’t running at the same time….
I have two 25 foot 12 gauge cords with metal double outlet boxes on the end, in my shop, that I use when I need a corded tool out in the middle of the floor….
I would not use this for a tablesaw, or an air compressor….
References :
March 10th, 2010 at 10:09 am
The extension cord should be say 14 gauge though 16 gauge..,but truthfully I recommend and think it is best to practice SAFETY first and to leave your power tools disconnected unless you are using them at the same time on a particular project. You never know who might come along and flip switch/press button.
Hope the Above Info Helps!
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March 10th, 2010 at 10:40 am
Yes, as long as you don’t over rate your circuit amperage. Always use #12 AWG cords in construction. Always use a GFCI. I always use a ext. cord for multi tools. I only use one at a time. Hey! If your in your garage and its a newer home, get you one of those retractable cords and hang it from the ceiling. If its a newer home the garage door opener circuit is (or suppose to be) on a seperate circuit. This gives you an additional circuit, just don’t open your door and run big power tools the same time.
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