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As TVs have become an essential part of our daily lives, many people wonder, “Can you plug a TV into an extension cord?” While it is possible, taking certain precautions is necessary to ensure safety.
In this article, we will discuss the topic of connecting a TV to an extension cord. We will provide some safety tips and other important considerations to keep in mind when using an extension cord to power your television.
Is It Safe to Plug a TV into an Extension Cord?
A television unit is an electronic device that draws a relatively low amount of current. As a result, connecting it to an extension cord is definitely safe and will not pose any risk to your electrical system.
However, what may bring danger when using an extension cord for TV is the other devices you may want to pair with your TV. This may overload the extension cord and cause electrical hazards or fire. In this case, you need to be aware of what you put on the circuit to prevent the risk of overloading.
What Happens If I Plug a TV into an Extension Cord?
If the extension cord is rated for the TV’s wattage and is in good condition, nothing should go wrong. However, using an extension cord that is not rated for the TV set’s wattage can cause it to become overheated and overloaded.
As a result, the extension cable may get damaged or frayed, which can pose a safety hazard. Additionally, all connected devices, including the TV, may sustain damage due to the unstable power supply caused by the voltage drop in the damaged or underrated extension cord.
This could result in costly repairs or the need to replace the unit altogether.
Types of Extension Cord to Use for a TV
When selecting a cord for your TV, it is ideal that you have knowledge about what gauge extension cord to use and its amperage.
Generally, the recommended extension cable for TV is a medium-duty 16-gauge to 12-gauge one. These sizes can safely accommodate a current load of 10 amps up to 20 amps.
Additionally, it’s important to consider the length of the cord, as longer cords can produce higher resistance, resulting in voltage drops. As a rule of thumb, an extension cord less than 100 feet long is ideal for a safe, effective electrical connection for your TV.
For additional reference, below is a chart that will give you an idea about the amperage rating of each extension cord gauge.
| Extension Cord Size | Amperage Rating at 100 ft. Length |
| 16 gauge | 10 Amps |
| 14 gauge | 13 Amps |
| 12 gauge | 15 Amps |
| 10 gauge | 15 Amps |
Tips to Use a TV with an Extension Cord
Here are some tips to safely use a smart TV or any TV set with an extension cord:
- Use the appropriate gauge for your extension cord: Choose a medium-duty 16-gauge to a 12-gauge extension cord that can safely handle the TV’s power rating.
- Use a short cable tv extension cord to prevent voltage drop.
- Don’t connect two extension cords together to power your TV, as it is against electrical codes and can pose a risk to your electrical connection.
- Ensure that your extension cord is grounded for additional safety.
- Don’t use a damaged extension cord, as it may pose a hazard.
- Don’t hide your extension cord under a carpet or behind a wall, as it may cause the wire to heat up. Instead of an in wall extension cord TV setup, use junction boxes or recessed wall mount plates.
- Even though you may find it troublesome, having a dedicated circuit for your TV set is ideal for reducing the chance of overloading a circuit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It OK to Plug a TV into a Power Strip?
Yes, plugging a Samsung TV or any brand into a power strip is completely OK and safe. However, suppose you want to connect other electronic devices to the extension cord with your TV. In that case, you should ensure that this additional power rating can still be handled by your extension cord.
Should I Plug My TV into the Wall or Power Strip?
If you wonder whether it is best to plug my TV directly into the wall or power strip, the answer depends on your needs.
If you prefer a tidy setup and your TV cord can reach the wall outlet, plugging it directly into the wall is a suitable option.
On the other hand, an extension or power strip is necessary if the television cord is too short. This solution is also beneficial if you have other electronic devices, such as a TV box and soundbar, that need to be connected to your TV.
How Many TVs Can You Plug into an Extension Cord?
The number of TVs you can plug into an extension cord may depend on the power rating of the extension cord and the TVs.
However, it is not recommended to plug and use several electronic devices concurrently if they are connected to an extension cord. Even though a TV is typically a low-powered device, it is ideal to use only one or two units to prevent wires from overheating.
Conclusion
In summary, the answer to the question, “can you plug a TV into an extension cord” is yes. However, it is important to ensure that the extension cord is of the right type, length, and amperage rating to avoid electrical hazards and damage to your equipment.
Always remember that following the manufacturer’s guidelines and recommendations for any electronic device, including a TV, is always advisable. If in doubt, seeking professional assistance is an excellent option to ensure the safe and effective use of your appliances.
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I am Edwin Jones, in charge of designing content for Galvinpower. I aspire to use my experiences in marketing to create reliable and necessary information to help our readers. It has been fun to work with Andrew and apply his incredible knowledge to our content.