Topic: Does voltage rating of extension cords matter?

[d00dZ]

Some of the extension cords I use for my HT gears have voltage ratings of 110V... is it necessary to comply with this voltage rating? Alam ko you should know better not to exceed wattage ratings, but voltage? I'm using it for standard Philippine 220V currents.  Thanks! 

[bumblebee]

Some of the extension cords I use for my HT gears have voltage ratings of 110V... is it necessary to comply with this voltage rating? Alam ko you should know better not to exceed wattage ratings, but voltage? I'm using it for standard Philippine 220V currents.  Thanks! 

What I know is that we should watch out for the amount of current (no overloading).

[av_phile1]

Yup it's the current or wattage handling capability you shouldn't exceed.  Check the current or amp capability. 

[d00dZ]

Concrete example: I'm using an extension cord rated at 110 volts, 1500 watts for a projector using 220 volts, 270 watts. Notwithstanding na malaki ang excess wattage capacity, does it meant that there isn't really a problem with the extension cord only rated at 110 volts? 

[bumblebee]

Actually, this is the first time I've heard of an extension cord w/ voltage rating. Assuming it is indeed 110V, w/ 1500W means the cord can take up to 13.64 amps (P=EI). Just make sure you don't exceed 13.64 amps.

Hope I applied Ohm's Law correctly.

[av_phile1]

Concrete example: I'm using an extension cord rated at 110 volts, 1500 watts for a projector using 220 volts, 270 watts. Notwithstanding na malaki ang excess wattage capacity, does it meant that there isn't really a problem with the extension cord only rated at 110 volts? 

It's the wattage rating that really matters.  If the chord is rated for 110 volt with a max rating of 1500 watts, you can expect the current capability to halve when used in a 220volt setting.   No problem, 1500 watts handling capability is sufficient for your projector's 270 watt consumption.

[av_phile1]

Actually, this is the first time I've heard of an extension cord w/ voltage rating. Assuming it is indeed 110V, w/ 1500W means the cord can take up to 13.64 amps (P=EI). Just make sure you don't exceed 13.64 amps.

Hope I applied Ohm's Law correctly.

The max current will halve when the voltage doubles, conserving the 1500watt capability. 

[bumblebee]

The max current will halve when the voltage doubles, conserving the 1500watt capability. 

Thanks for that Isip ko kc wires lang talaga.

[d00dZ]

Actually, this is the first time I've heard of an extension cord w/ voltage rating. Assuming it is indeed 110V, w/ 1500W means the cord can take up to 13.64 amps (P=EI). Just make sure you don't exceed 13.64 amps.

Hope I applied Ohm's Law correctly.

Nakasulat sa packaging. In particular, I'm referring to the Ace Hardware extension cord na may ground prong, yung makapal. Bought it kasi mukhang heavy duty, then I was perplexed to find out when I got home na may voltage rating nga siya at 110V

The max current will halve when the voltage doubles, conserving the 1500watt capability. 

Ayun malinaw na! Thanks for the replies mga sir. I hope my off-left field question made your day more interesting. Cheers!

[ATJr.]

the 110volts label on yor power cords, means it was tested and is safe to use at 110volts ac. but if you are able to use it at 220 without getting burned, then it is also safe to use at 220volts.

most power cords are rated to withstand 600volts dc dielectric test, it can probably stand more, so rest easy with your power cord.