Would a standard extension cord work for an air conditioner?

[roach9]

I need my air conditioner cord to be 2 feet longer... I also don't want to set fire to my house.
Would a standard, short extension cable do the trick here?

[hitman_24]

Would it work? Yes. Is it safe? No
As long as it is of sufficient rating to handle the current, otherwise you run the risk of a fire.
Your standard run of the mill extension cord typically isn't good enough.

You can buy a cord that is made specifically for appliances.

[redgrandam]

Get one wit a higher rating. I use one that is designed for a block heater, so it's larger gauge. If you are buying one get an appliance rated one.

If you have one, does it say how many amps it's rated for?

[roach9]

How much are the appliance rated extension cords?

[roach9]

Better yet, where should I pick up a cheap one? Wal-Mart?

[redgrandam]

That or any hardware store ie Canadian tire, home depot. I don't see it in their website so I couldn't tell you the price.

Post here what you find and how much. I should get one too.


Amazon has some cheap

http://www.amazon.ca/gp/aw/d/B00004SQH5/ref=mp_s_a_1?qid=1342496296&sr=8-1

[bylo]

Would a standard, short extension cable do the trick here?
No, you need something that can handle the high current safely. Look for a cord that's rated at least 14/3 (meaning 14-gauge wire, 3 wires, i.e. grounded.)

Note that "at least" means a lower gauge, e.g. 12, will carry even higher current. Stay away from the standard 16 or 18 gauge extensions that are designed for lower current use.