AC is the abbreviation for Alternating Current, the form of electricity we use most in our day to day lives. We all have dozens of devices to plug into the outlets in our homes and often that means we use extension cords, but do we use them correctly? Adding extension cords until outlets look like a spaghetti factory can be very dangerous.

Remember, the gauge of the wire and the length of the cord determine the power it can safely deliver. The heavier the wire, the more amperage it will safely conduct. A light-duty 16-gauge cord is fine for a table lamp but you’ll need a heavy-duty 12-gauge cord for using a circular saw. Available power decreases as length increases so upgrade to a heavier cord for maximum power. Finally, always uncoil an extension cord before using it because coiled cords build up heat.

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Danny Lipford

Founder

Danny Lipford is a home improvement expert and television personality who started his remodeling business, Lipford Construction, at the age of 21 in Mobile, Alabama. He gained national recognition as the host of the nationally syndicated television show, Today's Homeowner with Danny Lipford, which started as a small cable show in Mobile. Danny's expertise in home improvement has also led him to be a contributor to popular magazines and websites and the go-to source for advice on everything related to the home. He has made over 200 national television appearances and served as the home improvement expert for CBS's The Early Show and The Weather Channel for over a decade. Danny is also the founder of 3 Echoes Content Studio, TodaysHomeowner.com, and Checking In With Chelsea, a décor and lifestyle blog.

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