4 Things to Know About Extension Cord Length

Buy the shortest cord that reaches your tool or device. Longer cords increase electrical resistance and voltage drop, which can reduce performance.

For indoor use near an outlet, a 6-foot cord is usually enough. A lamp or phone charger three feet away does not need a 25-foot cord.

For outdoor tools like a lawnmower at the far end of a yard, choose a heavy-duty 100-foot cord. The distance and power demand require a thicker gauge to maintain voltage.

Do not buy a longer cord for future flexibility. Using an unnecessarily long cord wastes money and risks power loss or overheating.