Electricity experts weigh in - using an extension cord for an appliance (kegerator)

[seepy83]

I recently purchased a kegerator that is U.L. approved for outdoor use. The owner's manual has warnings that say it should not be connected with an extension cord.

It has GFCi built-in to its plug. It's a standard 3-prong plug, and the specs for the appliance say 115 volt, 60 cycle, 15 amps. edit: manufacturer lists 1.7 amps.

What is the risk of using a heavy duty outdoor extension cord to power it? It wouldn't be a very long distance...either a 15 or 25 foot cord.

 

[Evadman]

Extension cords are not designed for permanent installation. They are for temporary power only. The warning on not using an extension cord is not for decoration.

 

[highland145]

The longer the run the more the resistance which could cut the life of the compressor. I can see some guy with a 100' cord running this thing. 15 amps.

When's the ATOT party?

 

[CPA]

how about just install a new socket, running off the one you were going to plug the extension cord into, assuming your amperage is high enough on your breaker.

 

[seepy83]

I'm going to run a new outlet to the other side of my patio where it will be placed, but that won't happen for 3-4 weeks. In the meantime I was going to connect with a 12- or 10-gauge outdoor extension cord to get it running for the holiday this weekend.

It sounds like a short run like this shouldn't be that big of a deal, especially since it's temporary.

 

[Nintendesert]

It shouldn't be a problem.

 

[sdifox]

I'm going to run a new outlet to the other side of my patio where it will be placed, but that won't happen for 3-4 weeks. In the meantime I was going to connect with a 12- or 10-gauge outdoor extension cord to get it running for the holiday this weekend.

It sounds like a short run like this shouldn't be that big of a deal, especially since it's temporary.

3 weeks is ok. Just use the shortest extension with the thickest conductor.

 

[highland145]

3 weeks is ok.

I think we should be invited over to check it out. Just saying.

 

[TonyG]

Just for this upcoming weekend? You should not have any issues, and the 12guage cord should be more then capable of handling 12 amps at that distance.

 

[IndyColtsFan]

Extension cords are not designed for permanent installation. They are for temporary power only. The warning on not using an extension cord is not for decoration.

This. If you're going to have a kegerator outside, just have an electrician install the proper outdoor socket and you'll be good to go.

EDIT: Just saw that it was just for this weekend -- you're fine with an extension cord for something small like that. Just make sure it is out of the way and be careful about running it into a doorway where a door may pinch it and break the insulation.

 

[FDF12389]

I need directions

 

[artikk]

So whose invited to the party?

 

[highland145]

Forgot.

Pics of kegerator or shens.

 

[JimW1949]

Use a 12 gauge heavy duty outdoor extension cord. Buy an extension cord that is as short as possible. If it is possible to keep the extension cord from getting wet where the kegerator plugs into the extension cord, that would be a good idea too.

 

[seepy83]

I have no pics for you, but this is it http://www.summitappliance.com/catalog/model/2132 (Yes, twin taps. It can accomodate 1 1/2 barrel, 1 1/4 barrel, or 2 1/6 barrels (logs))

And no offense, but none of you are invited.

 

[highland145]

I have no pics for you, but this is it http://www.summitappliance.com/catalog/model/2132 (Yes, twin taps. It can accomodate 1 1/2 barrel, 1 1/4 barrel, or 2 1/6 barrels (logs))

And no offense, but none of you are invited.

Bastard.



kidding, a little.

 

[DominionSeraph]

The longer the run the more the resistance which could cut the life of the compressor.

The problem isn't the life of the compressor but the extension cord heating up and catching on fire.

Here OP, 12 gauge extension cord:

http://www.amazon.com/2883-Heavy-Dut...ref=pd_cp_hi_2

 

[highland145]

The problem isn't the life of the compressor but the extension cord heating up and catching on fire.

Here OP, 12 gauge extension cord:

http://www.amazon.com/2883-Heavy-Dut...ref=pd_cp_hi_2

Both.

Voltage drop on wires due to resistance causes hotter wires and less voltage to run the devices attached to it. You may have noticed the same effects of voltage drop when using an electric drill that is attached to a long extension cord. The drill still runs, but is often slower, with less torque, and tends to heat up more quickly. Voltage drop has a devastating effect on motors.

 

[3chordcharlie]

The problem isn't the life of the compressor but the extension cord heating up and catching on fire.

Here OP, 12 gauge extension cord:

http://www.amazon.com/2883-Heavy-Dut...ref=pd_cp_hi_2

If it's a really poor compressor, it could fail first, especially if you use an under-spec cord that can't provide the startup surge for the motor.

 

[edro]

A beefy extension cord would work fine. Of course they don't want you running it from an extension cord because of all of the code and liability issues.

- Using too small gauge cord = fire/death
- Too long of a cord = voltage drop = poor performance = warranty claims
- Damage to cord due to misapplication (using indoor cord outdoors)
- Numerous NEC Code violations
- etc.

Use a beefy cord. 12ga recommended, 14ga is good enough. You will be fine.

 

[seepy83]

So what is it about an extension cord that makes it drop voltage over distance, where Romex wouldn't? Is it because extension cords use a stranded copper conductor and romex is solid?

 

[sdifox]

So what is it about an extension cord that makes it drop voltage over distance, where Romex wouldn't? Is it because extension cords use a stranded copper conductor and romex is solid?

too many interfaces.

 

[Golgatha]

Normal 20A indoor outlets are wired with 12ga solid core. Use a 12ga extension core and you'll be fine. Just be sure to get the shortest one needed for the application. Typical 12ga cords are rated for 15A, so don't plug anything besides the kegerator into it. Get a 10ga with 20A service for some headroom if you like. It will be hard to find though and much more expensive.

 

[SphinxnihpS]

So my whole house is wired with only 14GA wiring, can I safely use the Kegerator?

A regular indoor/ourdoor extension cord will be fine. Just don't coil up the excess and put it under a rug. If the device has a GFCI breaker on it, you don't even have to worry about it getting wet.

 

[highland145]

So what is it about an extension cord that makes it drop voltage over distance, where Romex wouldn't? Is it because extension cords use a stranded copper conductor and romex is solid?

Romex would too on a long run. The longer the run the more the resistance meaning you need a larger gauge.
http://electrical.about.com/od/wiringcircuitry/qt/wiresizeandcablelength.htm