5 Reasons to Bring Extension Cords Inside Before It Freezes

Cold makes PVC insulation brittle Subzero temperatures cause the plastic jacket to harden and crack, especially if you yank a frozen cord straight after it’s been coiled up all winter.

Hairline cracks lead to shorts or shocks Even tiny cracks in the insulation can expose wires, creating a shock hazard or causing the cord to short out the first time you use it in spring.

Water freezes and splits the jacket from inside Moisture trapped inside the cord expands when it freezes, forcing the insulation apart and ruining the cord permanently.

Tight wraps stress cold insulation Coiling a cord tightly when it’s cold puts extra strain on the brittle plastic, making cracks more likely. Always coil loosely if storing outside.

Sudden straightening damages the cord Let a frozen cord warm up in a garage or mudroom for an hour before handling it. Cheap cords aren’t built for arctic conditions and need gentle treatment.