Flat extension cords are increasingly becoming common in many homes and offices, signaling a potential to replace their rounded counterparts. But are they a worthy investment? 

Read below for a guide to flat extension cords, with a special focus on how to pick these essential electrical components.

Introducing Flat Extension Cords

Flat extension cords, more accurately known as flat-plug extension cords, are essentially extension cables with flat plugs. 

A surge protector extension cord differs from the more common round-plug power extender primarily in its plug shape. But as you’re about to find, that seemingly trivial distinction gives these cables a significant edge.

Benefits Of Flat-Plug Extension Cords

Like regular extension cords, flat-plug cords were designed primarily to ‘extend’ the reach of electricity supply. These wires let you connect pieces of electrical equipment situated a considerable distance from the nearest power outlet. 

However, flat-plug extension cords stand out for their ingenious construction. These cables are safer for use in high foot traffic areas due to their ability to stay closer and firmer on the ground than their rounder counterparts. 

Upgrading to flat-plug extension cords is an intelligent way to improve electrical safety in your home or workplace. It helps minimize tripping hazards, a major concern with power extenders. 

Flat-plug extension cords are also more durable than cables with rounded plugs. Since the surface area in contact with the floor or socket is higher, the plugs can withstand a substantial amount of vertical pressure. 

Thanks to their innovative design, flat-plug extension cords are also easy to hide from view. You could quickly slip them underneath the carpet or furniture, or run them behind your office wall and dividers. That explains their popularity in conference rooms and trade exhibitions. 

You’ll also love flat-plug extension cords for their convenience of use. The cables’ flat design lets you dodge bends and obstacles, making them indispensable when working in tight spaces.

5 Features To Look For In Flat-Plug Extension Cords

1. Proper Cord Length

Extension cords vary significantly in length. These cables can be anywhere from 2 to 30 feet. 

The most practical way to buy the right cord length is to measure the distance from the electrical equipment that needs connecting to the nearest functional power outlet. Then, purchase a flat-plug extension cord that’s a few inches (10 – 20) longer. 

Do not buy a very short flat-plug extension cord, as you may then be forced to daisy chain. Similarly, avoid very long cables. 

Every length added to an electrical cord results in a voltage drop and increase in resistance, a disastrous combination that can damage the cables and any connected appliances. 

2. High Gauge Rating

The gauge of a flat-plug extension cord is a measurement of the thickness of the copper wires. It’s another key feature that determines the cable’s performance. 

The gauge ratings in most flat-plug extension cords in North America are represented by numbers that typically range from 8 – 20, then followed by the abbreviation AWG (for American Wire Gauge). The smaller the number, the thicker the conductor wire and the better its current-handling abilities. 

Flat plugs rated 8 – 12 ideal for power-intensive equipment like refrigerators and sump pumps. 

Comparatively, those rated 14 or higher work best with lighting fixtures, entertainment systems, and regular computers.

3. Superior Insulation Material

When shopping for a flat-plug extension cord, it’s important to think about the intended use environment. 

Experts recommend erring on the side of caution by purchasing a flat-plug whose outer jacket is made from weather-resistant insulation. That’s regardless if you’re planning to use the cable entirely indoors. 

You can pick between vinyl- and rubber-insulated flat-plug cords. Both vinyl and rubber are affordable and reasonably durable. They can withstand considerable temperature fluctuations and harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays too. 

Overall, vinyl is more impact-resistant while rubber withstands colder temperatures better. 

4. Grounding Wire

Grounding is an important safety feature in flat-plug extension cords that does exactly what the name implies – channeling electrical current to the ground in the event of a short circuit. 

The easiest way to determine whether a flat-plug extension cord is grounded or not is to check the number of prongs. Three-pronged cords are grounded while the two-pronged kinds aren’t. 

The third prong in a three-prong flat-plug extension cord leads to the grounding wire in the cord’s system. 

When there’s a short circuit, the grounding wire triggers a fuse or circuit breaker. This can minimize the risks of electrical hazards, including fires and electric shocks.  

5. High Amperage Rating

Amperage is essentially the strength of electric current expressed in amperes. It determines the specific electrical appliances that a given flat-plug extension cord is suited for. 

Read the energy requirement of each equipment before getting it an extension cord with matching amperage. 

Note that amperage doesn’t exist in isolation. It’s often measured in relation to voltage and wattage. 

Voltage is the force that allows electric current to flow while wattage is the product of wattage and voltage. Consider all three variables when shopping for a flat-plug cord for your home or office.

Final Word

Flat-plug extension cords have a low profile design that makes them suitable for workplaces where multiple connections are required. The cables are also safe, durable, and easy to navigate around tighter bends. 

But with dozens of brands available, picking the right flat-plug extension cable requires a bit of research. You can kick-start your search for flat plug power extenders by following the above-listed pointers.