Extension cord CLIFF NOTES:

[MicroZone]

I thought it might be handy to establish a basic guideline for those looking to do extension cords for their 110v and 220v machines.

Without referring to that calculator, was it...

12 gauge - 50ft. 110v or 25ft. 220v

10 gauge - 100ft. 110v or 50ft. 220v ?

Any other help is appreciated.

[denrep]

Originally Posted by MicroZone

I thought it might be handy to establish a basic guideline for those looking to do extension cords for their 110v and 220v machines.

Without referring to that calculator, was it...

12 gauge - 50ft. 110v or 25ft. 220v

10 gauge - 100ft. 110v or 50ft. 220v ?

Any other help is appreciated.

Depends on load in amps, that's the important factor.

For a rule of thumb, you might say;
Basic capacity
10 gauge 30 amps,
12 gauge 25 amps,
Reduce capacity for long lengths and continuous loads.


Quickly:
Identical load, operated at higher voltage, reduces the amp draw, thus allowing a smaller conductor to be used. For example; If you can wire your exhaust fan at 220v rather than 110v, you will draw less amps, allowing for a smaller or longer extension cable.

Voltage is not a significant factor of the current capacity (ampacity) of conductor.