Posted 2009-07-04 3:45 PM (#107517) Subject: Length of extension cord
Veteran
Posts: 233 Location: Tennessee
Is 200 feet too far to run my a/c for short periods? I have 12 gauge cord and a regular plug to plug into. I don't want to damage my a/c or cause any other problems. Thanks for all answers.
Posted 2009-07-04 4:21 PM (#107519 - in reply to #107517) Subject: RE: Length of extension cord
Member
Posts: 46 Location: Prior Lake, MN
I had this same question a few years ago and found a great deal of information on RV electrical cords - just google for info. BTW, I bought the best gauge extension cord that I could find and afford in the shortest possible length to do the job. Here is a link of helpful information: http://rvtravel.com/blog/lowtech/2007/07/rv-extension-cord-safety.h...
Posted 2009-07-05 12:31 AM (#107535 - in reply to #107517) Subject: RE: Length of extension cord
Expert
Posts: 2957 Location: North Carolina
Originally written by Sheryl on 2009-07-04 12:45 PM
Is 200 feet too far to run my a/c for short periods? I have 12 gauge cord and a regular plug to plug into. I don't want to damage my a/c or cause any other problems. Thanks for all answers.
Short answer... Yes. 200 feet of 12 gauge cord is too much distance and too little cord for your a/c unit...
The long small cord reduces the voltage to the a/c unit. This low voltage creats excess heat in the motor. (if it starts at all) Each time the motor cycles, the heat degrades the winding insulation... Leading to an expensive compressor replacement.
My 13500 btu Carrier unit draws about 1850 watts at full load cooling or 15.4 amps.
The calculator below says the max distance for 12 gauge wire limiting voltage drop to 3% is 67 feet.
Here's a reputable voltage drop calculator for you to play with.
Length of extension cord
