Power Tool Guide

August 8, 2017
Power Tool Guide Feature Image

As we approach summer, it’s become more apparent that we only have a couple months of good weather to finish our outdoor home projects. Power tool manufacturers have not made it easy to practice safe equipment usage. But look no further, Metro Electric is here to help!

Before touching any of your tools, be sure to follow the safety steps below:

  • Read the owner’s manual to understand the tool’s proper applications, limitations, operation and hazards.
  • Dress properly for the job. Wear long pants, close-fitting clothes, sturdy shoes, and safety glasses. Don’t wear anything that could get caught in moving parts.
  • Rid the working area of debris and obstacles to prevent slips or trips with or around power tools.
  • Be sure to inspect the cord for fraying, cracks, and other damage before use, and avoid using an electric tool while standing on a wet surface.

Now you’re ready to get your tools together. After reading the owner’s manual, you will know what tool requires which extension cord. But just in case you threw out the manual years ago, we put together a guide to help ensure you are on the right track to safety when picking the proper extension cord.

Designation LetterMeaning
SGeneral use
WOutdoor use
JJunior service – 300 V Service cord
PParallel wire construction
TMade from vinyl thermoplastic
EMade from thermoplastic elastomer rubber
OOil resistant

It’s easy to think all extension cords are the same…Turns out the lower the gauge number, the thicker the conducting wire(s) inside the extension cord and thus, the greater flow of electricity. A wire’s thickness directly affects the amount of current (or amps) it can carry. Choosing a slightly lower gauge (thicker wire) will ensure electricity flows freely through the outdoor extension cord.

Cord LengthDevice Amp RatingMinimum Extension Wire Gauge
25 Feet1 to 13 Amps16 Gauge (Light Duty)
25 Feet14 to 15 Amps14 Gauge (Medium Duty)
25 Feet16 to 20 Amps12 Gauge (Heavy Duty) or 10 Gauge (Extra Heavy Duty)
50 Feet1 to 13 Amps16 Gauge (Light Duty)
50 Feet14 to 15 Amps14 Gauge (Medium Duty)
50 Feet16 to 20 Amps12 Gauge (Heavy Duty) or 10 Gauge (Extra Heavy Duty)
100 Feet1 to 10 Amps16 Gauge (Light Duty)
100 Feet11 to 13 Amps14 Gauge (Medium Duty)
100 Feet14 to 15 Amps12 Gauge (Heavy Duty)
100 Feet16 to 20 Amps10 Gauge (Extra Heavy Duty)
Now it looks like you’re ready to start you project! Trust the Power of the Pro’s and give Metro Electric a call at 586.336.9121 for any home electrical repairs you may need. Happy renovating!