Galvin Power is reader-supported. When you buy via our links, we may earn a commission at no cost to you. Learn more

How to Safely Run an Extension Cord Under a Rug? – 4 Steps

Written by Edwin Jones / Fact checked by Andrew Wright

how to safely run an extension cord under a rug

Running extension cords under carpets or rugs to conceal them can create a tripping hazard. Furthermore, it can cause the cord to generate more heat or become damaged without you realizing.

However, this trick also helps prevent tangled cables, which can be inconvenient to unravel.

If you’re determined to hide cords under carpets despite the risks involved, read the guide below. It will show you how to safely run an extension cord under a rug, or at least, minimize potential hazards while doing so.

Ways to Safely Run an Extension Cord Under a Rug

hiding-wires-on-floor

An extension cord might not be the best way to energize your electronic devices. However, it is certainly convenient if your room does not have enough outlets.

Unfortunately, the risk of extension cord under rug fire hazard is high. Even if you just tape it onto the floor, the cable will pose the same problem.

Even though this is not recommended, you will still see a lot of suggestions and guides for this kind of trick on forums like Reddit.

So, if you still want to run a cord under carpet, there is a proper way to do it, and here’s how.

What To Prepare

  • Tape measure for measuring the path for the extension cord
  • Heavy-duty thin extension cord
  • Floor cord cover for additional protection of the cord
  • Scissors for cutting the floor cover
  • Clean cloth or rug for cleaning the path

Step 1. Plan a Route

hide-cords-on-carpet

Before you start, you need to plan a route for your extension cord from the nearest outlet up to where you need to power your devices. Though you might need a longer cord, it is a good idea to route it to the edge of the room to reduce the risk of tripping.

Then, use the tape measure to measure the route and see which cable length is suitable for your application.

Also, ensure the floor cord cover is equally long, so it can hide the extension. Cut the cover if necessary.

Step 2. Clear the Path

For you to install the extension cord properly based on your preferred route, you should clear the path first.

Remove all unnecessary things, such as furniture or appliances that your cord may pass through. Moreover, temporarily lift the rug to make way for the installation of the floor cover, together with your extension cord.

Once all is clear, you can now start positioning the extension cord properly.

Step 3. Place the Extension Cord

flat-power-cord-under-rug

Clean the floor surface using a clean cloth or rag.

Then, to place a flat power cord under rug, put its plug next to the outlet’s location, but don’t insert it into the socket yet. Next, place the cord alongside the wall base on your route.

Once done, you can insert the cord into the under carpet cable protector. Apply the cord cover adhesive to the floor, and stick it into place.

Step 4. Bring Back The Rug and Other Furniture

Now, you can bring back mats to cover electrical cords, plus all the furniture and appliances.

Also, plug in the extension cord at the outlet and connect some devices to see if the cable will get too hot.

Note: In this guide, we suggest using a flat extension cord for under rug application. One advantage of picking such an under door extension cord is preventing bulges on the rug, making your work look even better.

In addition, using a Clear max 3-in-1 extension cord might be a good choice, as you can power multiple devices at the same time.

Related: 6 reasons why extension cords get hot.

FAQs

hiding-wires-on-floors

Is it Dangerous to Use an Extension Cord Under the Carpet?

Yes, it is dangerous to hide electrical cords on carpet. Many people believe that this practice is a smart way to keep the area clean and free of wires. However, it can create fire hazards.

When you hide the extension cord under carpet, you may not be aware of what is happening to the cord. In this case, it may be too late before you notice that the insulation is damaged or a more serious problem occurred.

Why Shouldn’t You Put Wiring Under Carpets and Rugs?

There are two primary reasons why you should not hide cords on carpet or rugs. The first reason is that when an extension cord is utilized, it generally generates heat. Covering it with carpets or rugs may restrict it from releasing heat or, more likely, generate more heat, resulting in a fire.

The second reason is that you don’t want someone to step on the wire and damage it. Other people may not realize they are stepping on a cable, since the carpet and rug cover hid it from view.

Related: The most common reasons why extension cords unsafe

Can You Run Extension Cords Under Walls or Furniture?

No, you should not run extension cords under walls or furniture. Running a cord through a wall may lead to heat buildup, the same as hiding wires on floor. As for furniture, they can puncture the cable and cause electrical accidents.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to safely run an extension cord under a rug, you can worry less about the safety of your electricals.

However, we do not recommend running extension cord under area rug, especially if you need to use it for a long time. Instead, it is best to consult a professional electrician and set up new floor outlets in your home.

5/5 - (3 votes)