Last Updated on October 22, 2023 by Kevin Chen
Extension cord source Home advisor
Are you planning to install an air conditioner? One of the accessories that you will need is a proper extension cord. The key feature of the extension cord is its gauge or size. So, what is the ideal gauge extension cord for an AC?
The ideal extension cord for the air conditioner is 12 gauge, 14 gauge, and 10 gauge. These sizes will always depend on several factors such as the specifications of the AC that you are using.
The above options are also based on the fact that you cannot afford to use a thin wire for the AC system as it is likely to overheat and get damaged.
Keep reading as we discuss more about the sizes of the AC extension cord. Whether you are planning to buy extension cords in bulk for sale, we will help you make the right decision.
Power and current of air conditioner
When it comes to the extension cord selection for the air conditioner, two things remain constant. The power and the current rating of the AC. The power consumption of an air conditioner is measured in watts while the current rating is measured in terms of amps.
An average domestic air conditioner has a power rating of between 500 to 1500 watts. It draws a current of between 5 amps to 15 amps.
Larger air conditioners have a power rating of between 3000 to 5000 watts and its current rating should range between 20 amps to 50 amps.
The power and the current rating of the air conditioner that you choose will always depend on the room. You will use large and powerful ACs in large rooms. Similarly, the weather conditions, specifically room temperature will determine what air conditioner to use.
Overview of 14 gauge extension cord for air conditioners
As we have mentioned, one of the ideal extension cords for the air conditioner is a 14 gauge wire. This is a copper wire whose calibration is 1.63 mm or 0.064 inches.
The wire is perfect for low-medium power applications such as running domestic appliances and small outdoor equipment.
A 14 gauge wire is designed to support up to a maximum current of 15 amps and has a maximum power rating of 18000 watts.
From these figures, you can easily tell that small domestic air conditioners fit in this category of electronic devices.
Other than the thickness, you should also pay attention to the length of the extension cord. A 14 gauge extension cord for the AC systems can support the length of between 10 feet to 100 feet. Keep in mind that an increase in the length is directly proportional to the electric resistance of the extension cord.
Overview of 12 gauge extension cord for air conditioner
Do you have a feeling that a 14 gauge extension cord is too small for your air conditioner? You can opt for a 12 gauge wire. It is an ideal extension cord for medium-to-heavy-duty power applications.
A 12 gauge wire has a diameter of 0.081 inches or 2.05 millimeters. In terms of the current capacity, it can support up to 20 amps of current. This explains why it is used in most commercial and industrial applications. The cord is also suitable for a relatively large air conditioner.
The ideal length of this wire is also between 10ft to 100ft. 12 gauge is thick enough to guarantee the safety of your extension cord even when you are using a large AC system.
Overview of 10 gauge extension cord
When it comes to the air conditioning systems, 10 gauge extension cords are deemed perfect for high-capacity AC systems. They are quite thick hence have the capacity to handle higher currents than both the 12 gauge and 14 gauge extension cords.
A 10 gauge cord measures 0.102 inches or 2.59 millimeters. It has a current carrying capacity of up to 30 amps Technically, it is the largest wire size that you can use on an air conditioner.
Cooling capacities vs extension cords
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How do I know that a particular extension cord is perfect for my air conditioner? The simplest way is to check out the cooling capacities of the air conditioner and then compare with the size of the wire.
Air conditioners are rated according to their cooling capacities (BTU).
- 14 gauge extension cord is ideal for air conditioners rated between 5000 to 8000 BTU
- 12 gauge extension cord is ideal for air conditioners rated between 10,000 to 12,000 BTU
- 10 gauge extension cord is ideal for air conditioners rated 15,000 BTU
Can I use a heavy-duty extension cord on my air conditioner?
We all know that heavy-duty extension cords are designed to handle high electrical loads. Can I use such an extension cord on my air conditioner?
Yes, as long as the heavy duty extension cord meets the wire gauge we have listed above in terms of current capacity and the air conditioner’s cooling capacity.
For example, if the air conditioner draws more than 20 amps, you should use a 10 gauge extension cord. The rule applies across the board with other current capacities of the air conditioners.
Take note that just because it is an extension cord does not mean you are allowed to overload it. The same electrical hazards can affect it when overloaded beyond its current capacity.
Buy quality extension cord for the air conditioner
Now that you know the right gauge extension cord for the air conditioner, you can safely proceed to buy the right one for your application.
The next thing that you should confirm is the length of the extension cord. Usually, this will depend on how far the air conditioner is from the power outlet. While analyzing the length, you should always consider the voltage drop which in most cases is directly proportional to the length.
Do not ignore the quality and durability of the extension cord for air conditioners. The cord should be well-refined and polished to last for a long. And you can only get such from reputable air conditioner extension cord suppliers in China.
If you want to find more Electronic Components Distributors, please check out the following articles:
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Electronic Components Distributors In Malaysia
Electronic Components Distributors In Vietnam
Electronic Components Distributors In South Korea
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