Extension Cords and Jen-Kens

[Digital Goddess]

Hi there, I have a Jen Ken that I have yet to use because the only place I currently have to plug it in I have to use an extension cord. The manual says NO extension cords. Does anyone use theirs with an extension cord? Or does anyone know why extension cords are such a no-no? Thanks in advance!!:waving:

[Dale M.]

Hi there, I have a Jen Ken that I have yet to use because the only place I currently have to plug it in I have to use an extension cord. The manual says NO extension cords. Does anyone use theirs with an extension cord? Or does anyone know why extension cords are such a no-no? Thanks in advance!!:waving:

Most people don't know that extension cords come in various sizes and that using one to small (amperage capacity) can cause burns or fires, so to protect themselves companies say no extension cords.

To use a extension cord you need to have one rated (capacity) that will handle kiln. Look at manufactures nomenclature plate on kiln and see what current draw of kiln is. This will either be in Watts or Amps.... IF it is in amps, get a cord that has a larger capacity then the current draw of the kiln. So of kiln draws 12 amps, get a cord rated for 15 amps or larger. This will probably be a 12 gauge cord. If kiln power draw is in watts, take the value of watts and divide by the voltage, the product will be the AMPS (current) kiln draws. So if kiln draws 1400 watts and voltage is 120 volts, the current (amps) will be 11.6 amps. (1400w/120v=11.66amp))... So get a cord rated 15 amps or larger. Remember the rule is always if in doubt use larger size (in amps rating and gauge) than you calculated you need. A cord rated for 15 amps will probably be at least be a 12 gauge cord. ABOVE ALL BE SAFE, check cord when in use and if it is getting hot, discontinue using cord. Also only use the shortest cord necessary to prevent overheating of cord.

Dale

[Digital Goddess]

Thanks so much Dale, this really helps!!!:-)

[MikeAurelius]

If you need to go longer than 6 feet, increase the gauge by one size, for example, 14 gauge to 12 gauge.

If you need to go longer than 12 feet, increase by 2 sizes, 14 to 10 gauge. Of course, I've yet to see a 10 gauge extension cord, so that means you have to make it yourself.

Use the 80 percent rule for calculating size -- 14 gauge can handle up to 11.2 amps (15 times .80). 12 Gauge can handle up to 16 amps (20 times .80). BUT remember that 20 amp 120 volt service SHOULD use a different plug and outlet from 15 amp service!!

[Dale M.]

Geeez.... Mike where did you come up with those rules....

If you think about it, most wiring in house walls are are 14gauge wire and at best 12 gauge... Using heavier cords does nothing except cost more money....

Just go with amperage listed on cords...

Dale

[dpglassworks]

I use an extension cord and my husband figured out the size I needed apparently he uses those same rules as Mike and Dale...
But anyway, I have used this specially chosen extension cord since I got the kiln about 2 years ago... no problems

[Dale M.]

What Underwriters Laboratories has to say about extension cords....

http://www.ul.com/consumers/cords.html

Dale