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16 gauge extension cord

Jsf721

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Dec 23, 2012
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Location
LI, NY
I need to run an extension cord to hide a cord to a cable box. The 16guage says light duty. Anyone see and reason a 16 gauge would not be fine for a cable box?

Thanks.
 
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theoldwizard1

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How much current does it draw ?

Most small electronics draw 0.5-2.0A. You can probably go down to 18 gauge.
 
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Jsf721

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Joined
Dec 23, 2012
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Location
LI, NY
It is a 15 foot extension cord (plus the 3 footer lead cord on the cable box). Not sure how much current it draws.

I already installed the 16 gauge and I was wondering if it was ok. It said light duty and I thought this was light duty.

How much current does it draw ?

Most small electronics draw 0.5-2.0A. You can probably go down to 18 gauge.

And how far (long) will that cord be?
 

machine_punk

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May 14, 2011
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Location
Napa Valley, California
It really boils down to matching the amp draw of the device to the amp limit of the cord. The cord will tell you how much it can carry. The cable box has a sticker on the back or bottom which tells you how much it draws. Make sure the cord carries at least that much.

My concern is not so much for me, when I use extension cords in semi-permanent installations, but for others. I know I'm not going to overload an extension cord, but I cannot guarantee the boys won't. So, my personal policy on semi-permanent extension cords (and I use a fair number of them, especially in the home theater) is to always install an extension cord rated the same as the circuit breaker. You just really won't find extension cords around my house which are not rated for at least 15 amps...no matter how long they are.

Kev
 
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