The Importance of Using High-Quality Power Cords: Avoiding Electrical Hazards

Power cords are an integral part of everyday life. Consumers and businesses alike rely on electricity for various applications. As such, knowing the dangers of power cords and how to determine the quality of a cable is necessary to ensure the safe handling of electrical cords.

Dangers of Low-Quality Power Cables

With great power comes great responsibility! Along with all the benefits of electricity, there are a host of dangers to be aware of. It’s important to understand the hazards of dealing with power cords and cables so you can be sure to avoid them and promote safety habits.

Electrical Fire Hazards

Poor-quality power cords may have substandard insulation or inadequate wire gauge, increasing the risk of electrical fires. Damaged or fraying cords can also lead to electrical fire hazards. These cords may overheat or short-circuit, potentially igniting nearby flammable materials.

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The Importance of High-Quality Power Cords for Electrical Safety

Power cords provide convenient solutions for electronic devices to receive the power they require for operation. However, if power cords are manufactured from low-quality materials, they can cause harm to the devices they are powering or, worse, pose a safety threat. This post will examine the importance of using high-quality power cords while considering ratings, regulations, materials, and safety features.

Power Cord Ratings & Why They Are Important

Power cord ratings, including voltage, current, and others, are crucial when selecting the appropriate cord for an electrical device or appliance. Matching the power cord rating with the electrical device ensures it can handle the required electrical load without overheating or causing damage. Using an incorrect power cord rating can lead to hazardous consequences, including electrical fires, equipment malfunctions, and potential harm to individuals nearby. Power cord ratings include:

  • Voltage Rating: This indicates the maximum voltage at which the power cord can safely operate. It is typically specified in volts (V), such as 120V or 240V.
  • Current Rating: Also known as the ampacity, this rating represents the maximum current the power cord can carry without overheating. It is measured in amperes (A). Using a power cord with a current rating lower than the actual current requirements can lead to overheating and potential damage.
  • Wire Gauge: The wire gauge refers to the thickness or diameter of the conductive wires within the power cord. It is denoted by a numerical value, where a lower gauge number indicates a thicker wire. Thicker wires can carry higher currents and are often preferred for applications requiring heavy loads.
  • Temperature Rating: This rating specifies the maximum temperature at which the power cord can safely operate without degradation or damage.
  • Insulation Rating: The insulation rating indicates the level of protection provided by the insulation material around the conductive wires, ensuring the power cord can withstand the electrical voltages it carries.
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Tips For Properly Maintaining Your Power Cords

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In addition to safety, proper maintenance of electrical cables is necessary to keep them in good working condition. Appropriate care, protection, and storage will extend the lifespan of your power and electrical cords and allow them to function correctly and safely for their appropriate uses.
Contact Quail today for high-quality, long-lasting electrical equipment, and let us assist you with all your project needs.

Electrical Cable Care

These simple tips will ensure your power cords receive the best care.

Avoid Twisting and Bending

Twisting and bending power cords can lead to internal damage to the cord, which poses safety hazards. Stretching and flexing the cord harms the electrical wiring. Allow the power cord to curl along its natural curve to avoid damaging the cable.

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The Importance of Ground Pins on Plugs

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2-pronged and 3-pronged plugs are among the most common plug styles for consumer use, with an obvious difference being the number of prongs per plug. Both plug styles have two flat, rectangular pins; however, a 3-prong plug features an additional prong. This prong, known as the “ground pin,” is easily identifiable by its rounded, cylindrical shape. It is critical in promoting electrical safety and protecting devices and operators.

Read below to learn about the importance of grounded plugs, their contribution to safety, and reasons to avoid cutting the ground pin. Contact Quail Electronics, Inc. with any questions or for more information about ground pins.

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Office Safety Tips for Power Cords and Power Strips

office heroPromoting electrical safety in the office is underrated yet highly necessary. Office spaces commonly use many electronics and require many power strips, power cords, and high amounts of electricity to power devices. It can be easy to be lulled into a false sense of security around electronics. However, there are still risks involved, especially in offices using many devices at once. These office safety tips for hazard prevention and safe handling are designed to protect your office and employees.

Quail Electronics, Inc. encourages safe electronic practices through education and information. Contact us today with any questions, and our team will happily assist you. Continue reading Office Safety Tips for Power Cords and Power Strips

Understanding Electrical Wire Colors & Wire Color Codes

black wiresWhen handling electrical wires and power cables, it’s crucial to understand and differentiate between color codes. The color of a wire indicates its properties and where it’s safe for use, meaning making the wrong decisions or connections can prove extremely dangerous or even fatal. Before you start working with the internal wiring of power cords, make sure you can confidently identify the role of each wire.

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Do You Have Melting Power Cords?

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With proper care and use, power cords are excellent and reliable solutions for powering a range of electronic devices. However, it is essential to understand the potential risks that come with transporting electricity. One such risk is melting power cords. While power cables may experience melting for a variety of reasons, proper education and safety practices will prevent melting or additional hazards.

Keep reading to learn more about the factors that may lead to melting power cables, as well as safety and prevention methods. Contact Quail Electronics, Inc. for more information, and our team will happily assist you with any questions.

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Don’t Be Shocked What The Holidays Bring!

It is crucial to practice electrical safety. Especially during the holidays! Here is an easy way to remember to be extra cautious this year, “The Twelve Days of Christmas” style!

On the first day of Christmas, my true love said to me, “Check for bare wires… before you wrap the tree!”

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On the second day of Christmas, my true love said to me, “Avoid overloading outlets… only plug one device… into each!” Continue reading Don’t Be Shocked What The Holidays Bring!

Why You Shouldn’t Buy Male to Male Cords

I’ve read several stories on why people choose to purchase and/or make these male to male power cords, but for some reason, they’re referred to as “suicide cables.”

male to male 1Why? See, power cords have two ends: the male and the female end. The male end is the plug and the female end is the receptacle. When you plug the male end into a wall outlet, the female end or connector is ready to be plugged into a device or equipment, which will allow the electricity to flow through. That is a safe connection. BUT, if you plug the male end into an outlet and have a male plug on the other end, this leaves an exposed conductor (which is the biggest NO-NO).

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Avoid The 12 Dangers Of Christmas

How To Avoid The 12 Dangers Of Christmas

Dangers of Christmas

  1. Do not use electronics near water.
  2. Never sleep with electronics under your pillow.
  3. Keep batteries safely stored in their packaging, they can be deadly if swallowed.
  4. Do not leave space heaters unattended when in use.
  5. Keep decorations at least 3 feet away from any open flame.
  6. Never play with fire.
  7. Do not run cords under carpets, rugs, furniture, or out of windows.
  8. Do not overload outlets.
  9. Sometimes less is more. Be careful not to over decorate.
  10. Always turn off decorations when you’re sleeping or leaving your home.
  11. Inspect all decorations and discard any that are damaged or worn.
  12. Keep you natural Christmas tree hydrated and water it daily.

 

Credit: ESFi

http://www.esfi.org/resource/avoid-the-12-dangers-of-christmas-105