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VOLTAGE DROP IN ELECTRIC EXTENSION CORDS
When a long electric extension cord is used to connect an appliance or tool to the
generator, a certain amount of voltage drop or loss occurs in the extension cord
which reduces the effective voltage available for the appliance or tool.
The use of improper size or gauge of extension cords may cause unsafe or ineffi-
cient operation of your tool or appliance. It may also damage the tool or appliance.
Be sure that any extension cord that you use is rated to allow sufficient current flow
to the motor or appliance. Select the required wire gauge size according to the
chart below. Chart lists the minimum wire gauge size for the proper extension cord.
EXTENSION CORD CHART
Use the right extension cord. An extension cord should have a suitable wire size
for the overall cord length and tool amperage rating. This is to prevent a serious
voltage drop, power loss and possible motor damage. Generally, heavier gauge
wire is required as cord length increases. Use the recommendations in this table.
Not normally available as flexible extension cord.
Extension
Cord Length
Amperage Rating of Tool
0.2
2.1-3.4
3.5-5.0
5.1-7.0
7.1-12.0
12.1-16.0
Recommended Wire Size (A.W.G. Gauge No.)
7.5m
18
18
18
18
16
14
15m
18
18
18
16
14
12
22.5m
18
18
16
14
12
10
30m
18
16
14
12
10
8
45m
16
14
12
10
8
8
60m
16
14
12
10
8
6
90m
14
12
10
8
6
4
120m
12
10
8
6
4
4
150m
12
10
8
6
4
2
180m
10
8
6
4
2
2
240m
10
8
6
4
2
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G28R-G61R 米国取説GU2016 05.1.26 11:14 AM ページ24
