As many electricians will tell you, the biggest issue with using extension cords outside is the possibility of electrocution and of having the cords and outlets affected by snow or water. As you probably already know, water and electricity don’t mix well at all, and aside from being a fire hazard, they can also lead to serious dangers to your health and the health of your family members.
When using extension cords outside, it’s important to take some measures to protect areas that can cause short circuits and sparks, when they come in contact with water. First of all, make sure that your extension cord has a good ground connection, and secondly, use plastic or PVC covering and boxes for all your wires and outlets to prevent them from being exposed directly to rain and water.
It is extremely important to plug in any exterior extension cords into a GFCI outlet in order to prevent electrocution when your cords come in contact with water. These outlets are commonly found in bathrooms and kitchens, and when you shop for them, you’ll find they can be identified by the additional TEST/RESET buttons.
Out of all these tips, the use of a GFCI outlet is probably the most important. Cheap and convenient, GFCI protection can be a real life saver, and it will help you effectively navigate outdoor areas that are prone to being affected by moisture. For more lawn and garden tips go to https://therichlawncompany.com/.