5 Reasons Not to Use Extension Cords for Permanent Landscape Lighting

  1. Extension cords lack proper insulation for burial They are not rated for direct burial or long-term outdoor use, unlike UF cable or landscape wire.

  2. They have no UV resistance Extension cords degrade quickly in sunlight, cracking and exposing wires.

  3. Moisture inside conduit still damages them Conduit protects from physical damage but doesn’t prevent moisture from degrading the cord’s insulation over time.

  4. They violate the National Electrical Code The NEC requires listed cable for underground installations, and extension cords are only rated for temporary, above-ground use.

  5. They are a fire and safety hazard A gopher or shovel can easily chew through the thin insulation, causing shorts, breaker trips, or fires.

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