Heavy Gauge

Heavy Gauge Cloth Covered Electrical Cord

Below is our collection of heavier gauge cords, thicker than the standard 18 gauge that most of our regular lamp cords are. While 18 gauge is by far the most commonly used conductor size for basic lighting, lamps, fans and small appliances, there are certain situations that call for thicker gauge cord: larger appliances that draw more amps, fixtures that need to power many bulbs (especially if it's a lot of incandescent bulbs, since LED's are very low wattage), and things like power strips and extension cords that need the adaptability of being able to power a variety of different devices. We have 16 and 14 gauge cords here (remember, the lower the number the thicker the gauge, and the more power it can carry), the following chart is a suggested guide for maximum power draw:

(Max amps based on 120 Volts AC, 50 ft cord or Less):

18 AWG- 10 Amps - 1200 Watts

16 AWG - 13 Amps - 1560 Watts

14 AWG - 15 Amps - 1800 Watts

To figure out amps or watts, use the formula Watts = Amps x Volts, or Amps = Watts / Volts

For example, a 60 watt bulb draws 0.5 amps on typical 120 volt power.

Please be sure the cord gauge you choose is appropriate for your situation, and err on the side of caution, always leave a buffer between your max draw and the recommended amps. If unsure, consult with an electrician or qualified professional. And remember you never know how another person might use your item. For example, you make a 14 bulb fixture powered on 18 gauge cord, you used 40 watt bulbs: a-ok, but what if someone changes them to 100 watt incandescent? Another example, you make an extension cord setup that you only intend to power your laptop, but what if someone plugs a hair dryer into it? Good practice is to either notate a max wattage per bulb on a light fixture, or max amps on a power supply, or "over engineer" to a thicker gauge cord to compensate for unknowns.