Frequently Asked Questions
Timers
Extension Cords
What is wire gauge and why is it important?
Extension cords are typically found in 18, 16, 14, 12 and 10 gauge sizes. The sizes are based on the American Wire Gauge (AWG) system in which the smaller the gauge number, the thicker the wire. For example, a 14 gauge cord has thicker wire than a 16 gauge cord and can therefore carry more power to a tool or appliance.
Wire Gauge Chart
It is very important to choose a cord with enough capacity to carry the amount of power required to run a particular tool or appliance. Running excess power through a cord can cause the internal wires to overheat and start a fire.
What does the cord's amp rating mean?
The amp rating is the maximum amount of amperage a cord can run to power a tool or appliance. A cord rated for 13 amps can run a tool that is rated up to 13 amps but should not be used to power a tool that draws 15 amps. Overloading an extension cord can result in overheating and fire. If you utilize more than one outlet on a multi-outlet extension cord, be sure that the total amps used by the tools don't exceed the cord amp rating.
Surge Protectors
Why do you need surge protectors connected to your computers and home electronics?
Surge control is important because even small surges or spikes can eventually destroy or affect the performance of electronic equipment such as televisions, computers, modems and microwave ovens. Damage can occur instantaneously or over time, as small surges gradually degrade internal circuitry. The common use of microprocessors (chips) in home electronics increases the need for surge protection because these chips are very sensitive to voltage fluctuations.
What about phone and cable line protection?
It is critical to protect the phone and cable lines coming into your home or office. Electrical surges and spikes can enter through those lines and destroy computing equipment, fax machines, telephones and modems.
Telephone Line Protection: Surges can occur on telephone lines; as a result, phones, answering and fax machines and modems can be damaged. To ensure total protection, use a Woods surge protector that protects both the power line and the telephone circuit.
Cable Line Protection: Coaxial cable lines can carry surges. For complete protection for televisions, digital cable boxes and DVD players, protect the cable line as well as the power line.
Don't forget your Digital Satellite System (DSS) - it needs protection too. If you have satellite television, look for a surge protector with DSS connections so the DSS line entering your home is protected.
What causes surges and spikes?
Surges and spikes are increases in "normal' electrical line voltage, often caused by a change in demand for electricity, such as when a large appliance in switched on. A surge typically measures less than 500 volts and lasts less than two seconds. A spike is much shorter in duration - less than one-thousandth of a second- but can measure into the thousands of volts. Either type of disturbance can damage electronic equipment beyond repair. Other causes of surges and spikes include turbulent weather and electric company maintenance.
How do surge protectors work?
Surge protectors act like a sponge, absorbing dangerous excess voltage and preventing most of it from reaching electronic equipment. Like a sponge, surge protectors have a limited capacity to absorb. Once the capacity is reached, the unit is no longer able to protect and should be replaced.