Nowadays, most electrical devices and home appliances need electricity to function. It causes a lot of inconvenience in times of power outage. Getting a generator is one of the worthy investments that one could ever make. It acts like a portable energy source to power up the electric equipment through the nearby power outlet. To make this happen with optimum safety, you would need the best generator extension cord. It enables the user to distribute the power from the generator to your home without any worries.
What is a generator extension cord?
A generator power cord is a length of an electrical cable with a plug on its head and single/multiple tail outlets. It acts as a medium of transferring electricity from the generator to other electrical devices or appliances. One can easily connect the generator to the transfer switch using the extension cord. It draws in power through the generator and distributes it amongst the electrical system of the house.
Uses of a generator extension cord
The generator extension cord’s role is to supply the power to the electrical appliances at the time of blackouts. Particularly, these are also helpful in powering up heavy-duty devices or machinery in remote areas. However, the extension cords are also efficient in supplying power to multiple devices at outdoor events.
Performance
An extension cord’s performance depends upon several factors, such as its construction, length, gauge, amperage, and wattage. Also, the plug type compatibility, durability, and nature of usage define the extension cord’s functioning. Clearly, to get the best generator extension cord, you should go for the ones that are long-lasting and resilient. For this, the below-mentioned product reviews and the buying considerations would guide you.
Table of The Best Generator Extension Cord
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10 3 Contractor Grade 50 ft 10 Gauge Power Extension Cord 10/3 Plug Extension Cord with Lighted Ends 10 Gauge Extension Cord 50 ft Outdoor Heavy Duty 10/3 Extension Cord 50 ft, Green |
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Century Contractor Grade 100 Feet 10 Gauge Power Extension Cord 10/3 Plug |
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Yellow Jacket 2805 10/3 Heavy-Duty 15-Amp SJTW Contractor Extension Cord with Lighted End, 50-Feet |
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Southwire 2549SWUSA1 100-Feet, Contractor Grade, 12/3 Extension Cord, With Lighted End; Red White And Blue, American Made Extension Cord, Indoor and Outdoor Use, Water Resistant Flexible Jacket |
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Yellow Jacket 2885 12/3 Heavy-Duty 15-Amp Premium SJTW Contractor Extension Cord with Lighted End, Ideal use With Heavy Duty Equipment and Tools, Durable Molded Plugs, 100 Feet, Yellow |
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Bold 50012 Contractor Grade 10 Gauge Extension Cord, 50', Green |
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50-ft 10/3 Heavy Duty 3-Outlet Lighted SJTW Indoor/Outdoor Extension Cord by Watt's Wire - Yellow 50' 10-Gauge Grounded 15-Amp Three-Prong Power-Cord (50 foot 10-Awg) |
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Generac 6883 50-Feet Cord and Reel Kit for Portable Generators and Inverters |
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Conntek 20602 L14-30 30 Amp 4-Prong Extra Heavy-Duty Generator Cord, UL Listed (50 Feet) |
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Powertronics Connections NEMA L14-30 25' cord 25-Feet 30-Amp L14-30 Generator Power Cord for Up to 7,500-watt Generators |
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Check Out More which is relevant to this product: Best RV Generator.
Top 10 Best Extension Cord to use with generator
01. Pizety 10/3 Plug Extension Cord: Completely resistive towards external impurities
Product Description and Performance
This plug extension cord by Pizety is a thick extension cord. Preferably suitable for medium to heavy-duty applications. Moreover, the thickness of this cord is 10-gauge. It makes it ideal for using outside. To add to this, it is one of the best generator extension cord. Because of its thickness and can be used with a generator for a longer time. Along with this, the cord is having a capacity of 15 amps of energy. Another optimal feature of this cord is flame-resistance. Moreover, it keeps it safe from fire and any burns.
Besides this, it is also moisture and water-free. So, the extension cord is fully weatherproof, which makes its use easy and reliable. In addition to this, the cord is neon-green and comes with a lighted plug. So, no matter wherever the user puts it, he/she can find it easily with this color and light. Due to its design and heavy-duty specifications, this cord can be used safely for tougher applications also.
Product Features
- 100% flame resistant
- Comes with a 15-amp cord wire for outdoor use
- Has visible neon colors for recognition
- Made up of heavy-duty material
- Can handle up to 125 volts
- Fully water-resistant for extra safety
Product Specifications
- Brand: Pizety Century Extension Cord
- Model: Century
- Weight: 10.78 pounds
- Dimensions: 14 x 12.5 x 3 inches
Pros
- Great exterior insulation
- Thick cord coils
- Better quality
Cons
- Size may vary
02. Century Contractor Grade Extension Cord: Premium quality with long length
Product Description and Performance
Another optimal extension cord from the Pizety is this CECOMINOD076113 extension cord. This magnificent cord has all those specifications that a user looks for in the best generator extension cord. Meanwhile, it is also a heavy-duty, high-performing, and premium quality extension cord that perfectly aligns with the generator. Further, this elegant cord is available in various neon colors, enhancing its visibility and looks beautiful in the outdoors.
Moreover, it has an outer jacket that is resistant and offers excellent service in all weather conditions. Additionally, it is also flame-resistant, so whether it is the rainy season, wind, or fire, the user can freely use this cord.
Besides this, it has a length of 100 and comes with heavy-duty molded 15 amp/124v plugs and connectors. So, even if the generator is placed 100 feet apart, this cord will easily reach it. In addition, performance-wise this cord has high standards and works significantly for a longer time.
Product Features
- Comes with an extension cord of 10 gauge
- The outer design is of neon color for better visibility
- Completely flame resistant
- Both for indoor and outdoor use
- Gets easily plugged in the connectors
- Modified with a heavy-duty body for safety measures
Product Specifications
- Brand: Pizety
- Model: CECOMINOD076113
Weight:
- 16.81 pounds
- Dimensions: 15 x 14.5 x 3 inches
Pros
- Great in durability
- Gives a perfect fit
- Water and shock absorber
Cons
- Too heavy, making it less handy
03. Yellow Jacket Contractor Extension Cord: Long lasting with great consistency
Product Description and Performance
The 2805 extension cord by yellow jacket is another one of the most highly rated cords. With a body of 10-gauge and 15 amp power, this cord is ideal for heavy-duty applications. So from the above lines, it can be stated that the body is designed for extra durability and reliability. Above all, this contractor-grade extension grade body is fully resistant to sun, rain, or any harmful externalities. However, this cord’s color is yellow, which, by default, increases its visibility no matter where it is placed.
Then, talking about its construction, it is well designed to avoid any sort of breaking and bending. Moreover, the clear-molded plugs of this extension cord are oversized to offer more convenience. Moreover, the body and power capacity makes this the best generator extension cord. Further, the robust design and 50 feet length of this cord makes it the perfect cord for exterior use. Finally, this robust and sturdy cord can be the best companion for the generators.
Product Features
- Length is 50 feet
- Safe to use both indoor and outdoor
- Neon color makes it easy to recognize
- Fits into oversized plugs also
- Has a lightened end that shows whether power is on or off
- Shock, water, and moisture resistant
Product Specifications
- Brand: Yellow Jacket
- Model: 2805
- Weight: 11.6 pounds
- Dimensions: 9.5 x 15.5 x 5 inches
Pros
- Great length
- Heavy-duty coat
- Can be used immediately
Cons
- Poor performance over water
- Average safety measures
04. Southwire Contractor Grade Extension Cord: Built with high-quality material
Product Description and Performance
Another brilliant extension cord is the 2549USA1 contractor-grade cord by Southwire. This extension cord is specially designed with a vinyl jacket to make it more durable and resistant. Along with this, it is 12 gauges wire and offers multiple color options like red, white, and blue. Certainly, this excellent wire is entirely water, moisture, and sunlight resistant. Moreover, it is designed with perfection to avoid any deteriorating. Further, this is the best generator extension cord due to its sturdiness and persistence.
Along with this, it has an optimistic construction of plugs, which helps plug it. Meanwhile, the prongs are made extra durable with reinforced blades that make the cord unbreakable. Finally, this cord is ideal for use outdoors. The 100-feet length of this cord will let the user place the generator at a long distance. And the vibrant colors will enable the user to find it effortlessly.
Product Features
- All-purpose cord
- Comes in three color variants
- The vinyl jacket provides complete protection
- Great durability and sturdiness
- Comes with a length of 100 feet
- Shows power indication
Product Specifications
- Brand: Southwire
- Model: 2549USA1
- Weight:12.5 pounds
- Dimensions: 12 x 7.5 x 4.75 inches
Pros
- Performs well in every weather condition
- Gets easily connected in big plugs
- Perfect for exterior use
Cons
- Heavy
- Not flexible
05. Yellow Jacket Contractor Extension Cord: Long, visible & optimal performance cord
Product Description and Performance
The 2885 extension cord by Yellow Jacket is equipped with a durable and rugged body. Along with this, it is an ideal match for heavy-duty applications that, too, for a more extended period. With a 100-feet length, this extension cord has a body of 12 gauges, which makes it ideal for reaching the generator’s power. Definitely, it is tough enough to withstand all sorts of prodding and pulling. Certainly, it makes it the best generator extension cord. Above all, the most prominent feature of this cord is the yellow color body.
Apart from this, this extension cord’s sturdiness and durability are unmatchable and most remarkable in this segment. Meanwhile, the SJTW outer jacket of the body is highly resistant and keeps it safe from external influences. This eventually makes the cord resistant to moisture, oil, and abrasion. Also, this cord’s manufacturing is powerful, making it more robust in all weather conditions. So, overall this extension cord is a bunch of excellent specifications and a sturdy design. However, it makes it perfect for generators.
Product Features
- Glossy yellow body
- Has an end that shows a power indicator
- A long length of 100 feet
- Comes with a three-pronged plug
- Made up of premium quality vinyl
- Heavy-duty 12 gauge cord
Product Specifications
- Brand: Yellow Jacket
- Model: 2885
- Weight:11.68 pounds
- Dimensions: 10 x 5.13 x 15.75 inches
Pros
- Water and moisture resistant jacket
- All connectors approved
- Can carry up to 300 volts
Cons
- Gets easily twisted
- Poor quality cord
06. Bold 50012 Extension Cord: Great performance with beautiful design
Product Description and Performance
The most high-performing and beautifully designed extension cord is the 50012 by the Bold. Measuring around 50 feet in length, this brilliant cord is having a 10 gauge copper wire. Further, this cord is ideal for contractor job sites as it comes with a power capacity of 300 Volts. Also, the beautiful green color of this cord makes it visible from a far distance. However, talking about the performance, this cord is designed with a premium quality vivid green jacket. Besides, this striking jacket makes it more sustainable towards extreme weather conditions, making it the best generator extension cord.
Then, this extension cord also has beautiful neon green indicator lights that give alerts when ground continuity is available. Moreover, it can provide continuous current and ground monitoring. Along with using it with a generator, this extension cord can also be handy for multiple uses. Undoubetedly, this extension cord is perfect for external use. In addition, it will last for a more extended period giving constant performance throughout its life.
Product Features
- Comes with a length of 50 feet
- Holds up to 300 volts
- Has lighted ends that show power indicator
- Great ground monitoring
- Colorful outer appearance
- Perfect for outer use
Product Specifications
- Brand: Bold Inc.
- Model: 50012
- Weight: 9 pounds
- Dimensions: 600 x 1 x 1.5 inches
Pros
- Gives resistance towards external impurities
- Completely shockproof
- Lasts for a longer time
Cons
- Poor quality material used in making
- Cords get twisted easily
07. Watt’s wire Heavy Duty Extension Cord: Ideal for extreme weather conditions
Product Description and Performance
Are you looking for the best companion for the generator? Here’s a brilliant extension cord that can be the best soul mate for the generator. The WW-10T050Y heavy-duty extension cord by Watt’s Wire is specially designed for running heavy applications. However, with a premium-quality, 10 gauge body, this extension cord works perfectly at the contractor’s job site. Along with this, this extension cord’s body is built with SJTW thermoplastic, which enhances its durability. Further, this premium- quality material makes it resistive to severe weather conditions. Therefore, this gives it enough strength to sustain in even -40 Fahrenheit and as high as 130 Fahrenheit.
Along with this, it can also withstand heavyweights because of its double jacket construction. Subsequently, making it the best generator extension cord. Besides this, it is perfectly resistant to fire, moisture, and corrosion. To keep its performance going, the manufacturer has designed it perfectly with a 10 gauge copper inside, providing 120v/15 amps power. Obviously, this cord performs exceptionally well in severe conditions.
Product Features
- Has heavy-duty powder-coated body for durability
- Gives a perfect fit in big plugs also
- Thermoplastic body for shock-resistant
- Completely water-resistant
- Great ground monitoring
- Comes in bright neon colors
Product Specifications
- Brand: Watt’s Wire
- Model: WW-10T050Y
- Weight: 11.88 pounds
- Dimensions: 10.6 x 9.9 x 3.4 inches
Pros
- Longer in length
- Strong cord
- More durable, safer, and convenient
Cons
- Quality is not up to the mark
- The male plug is heavy
08. Generac 6883 Cord: Thicker and offers magnificent resistivity towards the water
Product Description and Performance
This 6883 extension cord by Generac is incredibly designed with maintaining high standards. With a 14 gauge thickness and 50 feet length, this extension cord is perfect for heavy-duty usage. Further, it is also equipped with a durable and robust steel body. Indeed, it makes the cord extra durable and vital. Further, the cord comes with four outlets, which make its usage simple. And the bright green color of this cord increases its visibility. Besides this, the thickness makes it resistant to water, moisture, and sunlight.
In addition to this, this high-performing wire serves for a long time as it is thickly designed. Moreover, this cord’s smoothness makes it tangle-free, thereby making it the best generator extension cord. Also, this cord’s length allows joining it with the generator even if it is placed at a distance. At last, this will be the better companion for the generator with its easy plug-in feature and extra outlets.
Product Features
- The length of the cord is 50 feet
- Filled with thick copper wires for durability
- The bright green color on the outer layer for better visibility
- Great ground appearance
- Can handle up to -40 degrees of temperature
- Also comes with a power indicator
Product Specifications
- Brand: Generac
- Model: 6883
- Weight: 8.33 pounds
- Dimensions: 9.75 x 9.75 x 13 inches
Pros
- Great performance
- Water and shockproof
- Ideal for exterior use
Cons
- The plastic covering is of low quality
- Does not last for a more extended period
09. Conntek 20602 Generator Cord: Supreme quality with extra durability and flexibility
Product Description and Performance
The 20602 generator cord by Conntek is again an optimal cord for generators. As this is flexible and durable, most people recommend this cord for household use. Along with this, it performs brilliantly in both hot and cold conditions making it the best generator extension cord. Besides this, it can accommodate larger loads of up to 7,500. And, it comes with a 4-prong locking configuration. Importantly, it is also designed using a premium quality STW jacket. Obviously, it makes it more flexible and sturdy. Meanwhile, due to this jacket, the cord can survive easily in extreme weather conditions with heat resistance up to 221 Fahrenheit.
Moreover, this cord is made up of heavy-duty 10AWG wire that is ideal for contractors, home applications, and mobile businesses. And the 10AWG wire is 100% copper. It enhances the conductivity through the wires. Above all, the NEMA L14-30 configuration of the cord offers power at 30 amps 125/250 volts. Moreover, this cord also has supreme-quality molded ends. It gives maximum comfort and a textured grip.
Product Features
- Plugs and connectors are fully molded
- Comes with a 50 feet length
- Made with STW jacket
- The maximum rating of this cord is 7,500 watts
- Meets UL requirements
- 100% pure copper is used in manufacturing
Product Specifications
- Brand: Conntek
- Model: 20602
- Weight: 15.62 pounds
- Dimensions: 15 x 15 x 4.8 inches
Pros
- Heavy-duty cord
- Brilliant for longer run
- Well insulated
Cons
- Does not remain flexible in cold conditions
- Not water-resistant
10. Powertronics Connections Generator Power Cord: Ideally suits home and generator
Product Description and Performance
Another superior quality generator power cord is the NEMA L14-30 25′ cord by Powertronics Connections. This 25 feet extension cord has a 10 gauge body and a power capacity of 30 amps. And it uses a socket at one end and a plug on the other end, both having NEMA L14-30 configuration. Along with this, the cable features stranded bare copper conductors, a CPE jacket, and a separator. Further, the temperature range is -40 degrees celsius to +60 degrees celsius making it the best generator extension cord.
As far as performance is concerned, this cord performs well with generators, equipment, and portable devices. Moreover, the firm design of this cord makes it water and oil-resistant. On top of all, this 30 amp generator cord is highly flexible and has excellent tensile strength. It can sustain every type of weather condition with a premium quality jacket, be it colder or hotter. Finally, this cord will never let the user down with its performance and consistency.
Product Features
- 25 feet long extension cord
- Has 10 gauge and 4 conductors stranded copper for heavy loads
- Power capacity of 30 amps
- Made with 10 gauge Rubber SOOW 10/4 cord
- Performs well in all weather conditions
- Magnificent flexibility and endurance
Product Specifications
- Brand: Powertronics Connections
- Model: NEMA L14-30 25′ cord
- Weight: 9.95 pounds
- Dimensions: 12 x 12 x 4 inches
Pros
- Amazing performance
- Well made cable
- Great quality
Cons
- Smaller in length
- Compatibility issues occur
Buying Guide
There is an array of the most acceptable generator extension cords with different functionalities and usage. Because of this, it has become challenging to select an extension cord that suits well the power requirements of the generator. Unquestionably, to get the best generator extension cord, you should assess the features carefully. The following are the buying considerations that one should look for.
Length
In every extension cord, there is a voltage drop level. It measures the amount of voltage reduced due to the resistance of the internal wires of the cord. The intensity of the voltage drop depends upon the extension cord’s length. If the length is longer, then the voltage drop will be higher. Yet the only drawback is that the lengthy extension cords are comparatively weaker than the short ones.
Gauge
There is a copper wire inside the extension cord that transmits the electrical power. A gauge is a sort of numerical rating that shows the diameter of the copper wire. If an extension cord comes with an AWG rating of 14, then its copper wires are 14 gauge. Yet the thickness and load capacity of an extension cord is determined by the AWG rating.
However, it is preferable to go for the extension cords that have a lesser AWG rating. Well, one can even discover the gauge alongside the number of the extension cord’s conducting wires. A 14/3 cord shows that it comprises 3 conducting wires, and the gauge is 14.
Plug type
There are around 150 diverse types of power outlets. While purchasing a generator extension cord, you need to make sure that it is compatible with your home’s plugs. Generally, the generators including the portable ones installed with twist lock plugs of 3 or 4-prong. These can be connected to the transfer switch directly without much hassle. It should be noted, most households use twist-lock plugs of 4-prong.
There are two types of connectors, such as twist-locker and straight-blade. The twist-lock connectors are vital for the transfer switch. These are mainly useful for heavy-duty as well as commercial usage. On the other hand, the straight-blade connectors are suitable for light-duty and general purposes as well.
Usage
Some extension cords are useful for indoor use. Whereas, some are made for outdoor use. The extension cords that are suitable for indoor purposes are lightweight and thinner with a length of 25 feet. Such types of cords are rated for usage ranging from light to medium-duty.
For outdoor use, the extension cords are set apart with the help of a thicker external protective layer for insulation. Due to this, they can withstand extreme climatic conditions. The outdoor use cords are 100 feet long with thicker gauges and higher load capacity in comparison to indoor extension cords.
Wattage
It is quite vital to look for the number of watts a cord can handle with ease. For best results, one must go for the cord that has more wattage capacity than the generator. For example, if your generator is 5,000 watts, you must opt for the cable that supports up to 6,000 to 7,000 watts.
Amperage
The power of a generator extension cord is measured by the number of amps it can handle. Clearly, those extension cords with a higher amperage rating are efficient in handling more electricity. One can quickly determine the difference between 20 and 50-amp power cords by the thickness of the cord. Do not plug the low amperage cords in higher amperage outlets. Undoubtedly, it can damage the extension cord.
Sturdiness
The performance and long-lastingness of an extension cord define its quality. Usually, the generator cords comprise of any of the synthetic plastic materials. These include such as thermoset, thermoplastic, and thermoplastic elastomer. Amongst them, the thermoset is robust and long-lasting as it is layered with durable and thick rubber.
Obviously, thermoplastic is ideal for indoor use cords as this material supports only light-duty uses. Other than this, the thermoplastic elastomer is suitable for both indoor as well as outdoor use.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What gauge extension cord is suitable for portable generators?
For portable generators, an extension cord of 12 gauge would be sufficient. The gauge measurement of an extension cord defines the amount of heat it can tackle. So, if the extension cord is smaller for its intended usage. Of course, it would restrict the required power. Additionally, this can also result in overheating.
Are extension cords safe?
Extension cords contain many electrical wires for insulation. There is heat generation as the current flows. Indeed, too much heat can melt the insulation of the wires. However, it can cause short circuits or fires. That is why one should be more careful while using the extension cords. However, the following are the warning that one should watch out for. The extension cord is very hot or warm, unusual sounds from the connected devices or the circuit breakers begin to trip.
When should I plug in the extension cord?
Most people often plug in the extension cord before running the generator. Obviously, it can end up putting pressure on the generation, thereby damaging the cord. To prevent such issues, one should plug in the extension cord after the generator is active.
What type of power cord is suitable for the generator?
The best generator extension cord should match the power outlet on the generator. If the generator has a power outlet of 50 amps, it would require an extension cord of 50 amps. Selecting a power cord with lesser amps can waste the power potential. Without a doubt, it can damage the equipment as well.
What are the benefits of generator extension cords?
The generator extension cords enable the user to connect multiple electrical appliances that are slightly far-off the generator. It eliminates the need to move the appliances closer to the portable generator. Connecting a portable generator to electrical devices with the help of an extension cord is very easy. Obviously, there is no need for any sort of professional assistance for this.
The extension cords are useful. Especially, at the time of power outage. Clearly, these are affordable and reliable solutions to all your power needs.
What are the limitations of extension cords?
Though the extension cords are quite advantageous, they are prone to damages. Generally, a portable generator is placed away from the devices that it powers. So the extension cord has to run indoors as well as outdoors. When the cord is placed in the open weather, it becomes prone to corrosion and aging damages.
Also, the harsh weather conditions can deteriorate the quality and performance of the extension cord. However, for long-term electrical power supply, the extension cords are not a reliable solution. These are not fit for prolonged use.
Are extension cords compatible with hardwired devices?
You cannot connect the extension cord to the electrical appliances that are hardwired in the house. For this, you would have to disconnect the appliances manually from the house wiring and then connect them to the cord. However, it is a time-consuming process and is not even safe to carry out. Instead of this, the transfer switches are recommendable for portable generators.
Wrap Up
Undoubtedly, one should pick wisely. Especially when it comes to selecting power accessories, such as the best generator extension cord. For this, the product described above reviews, along with the buying guide, would be of immense help. To clarify, the extension cords arrive in different sizes, shapes, and colors. Most importantly, one should assess the requirements for a power cord precisely.
You must give more preference to the extension cords. It supports indoor and outdoor use for versatile applications. Moreover, make sure to go for the heavy-duty power cords as they are reliable and durable in long-term use. Therefore, power up your electric devices during the power outage as life never stops!
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