The electrical appliances that are required for industrial work such as grinding, cutting and welding need to be heavy-duty and are often paired with short cords. Also, there are times when you need to work with them outdoors. So, the best solution to this problem is the age-old extension cords which help the worker to work flexibly and peacefully. In this guide, we will discuss all about the extension cords used by welders.
With a lot of options in the market, there seems to be a confusion among the buyers. We have listed some of the features to help you choose the best welder extension cords.
- Length: The first thing you need to consider is the length of the extension cord required for your work. For enclosed spaces, it is suggested to use a shorter extension cord while for outdoor work, longer extension cords are preferred.
- Gauge: The gauge gives the thickness of the wire and it is inversely proportional to the length of it. Smaller wires can carry less electrical current and increase the electric resistance.
- Volts: The volt reading determines the electric pressure that can be handled by the extension cord. This can be directly compared with the mechanism of water pressure calculation inside a watering hose.
More details on the features to consider when buying an extension cord are given in the “Buying Guide” provided below. In the following section, we have listed the best welder extension cords along with their best features, advantages and disadvantages.
Best Welder Extension Cord List
| Name | Current | Voltage | Length | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Miady Welder Extension Cord | 40 Amps | 250 V | 25 feet | Check On Amazon |
| BougeRV Welder Extension Cord | 40 Amps | 250 V | 40 feet | Check On Amazon |
| RVGUARD Welder Extension Cord | 40 Amps | 250 V | 40 feet | Check On Amazon |
| VEVOR Welder Extension Cord | 50 Amps | 250 V | 50 feet | Check On Amazon |
| Parkworld Welder Extension Cord | 50 Amps | 250 V | 25 feet | Check On Amazon |
| ClearMax Welder Extension Cord | 40 Amps | 250 V | 25 feet | Check On Amazon |
| RVMATE Welder Extension Cord | 40 Amps | 250 V | 40 feet | Check On Amazon |
| pizety Welder Extension Cord | 15 Amps | 125 V | 50 feet | Check On Amazon |
| Fekuar Welder Extension Cord | 50 Amps | 220 V | 50 feet | Check On Amazon |
| Eastwood Welder Extension Cord | 40 Amps | 110 V | 25 feet | Check On Amazon |
Best Welder Extension Cord Review
1. Miady Welder Extension Cord
This professional welder extension cord by Miady which features all copper wire which is flexible and resistant to harsh weather conditions. It is highly rated and is suitable for use at 250V and 40 amps.
The product is resistive against moisture and water and is also fireproof. The gauge rating is 8/3 and the STW jacketed cover amplifies the performance. The 6-50 NEMA plug makes it ideal for heavy-duty use.
Safety comes first in case of this product as the LED light indicators inform when the power is turned on and when it is off. This supplies optimum performance and enhanced safety. The 25 feet length is ideal for indoor and outdoor usage.
It is highly compatible with all welders. It features a Type B plug format and weighs 11 pounds. It is black in colour.
Best Features:
- Current: 40 Amps
- Voltage: 250 V
- Length: 25 feet
- Gauge: 8/3
Pros:
- Flexible and resistant to harsh weather.
- Fireproof and water-resistant.
- STW Jacketing.
- Compatible with all welders.
Cons:
- After-sales service is not up to the mark.
2. BougeRV Welder Extension Cord
BougeRV has come up with a heavy-duty welder extension which is suitable for 250V, 40 Amps and 10,000 feet. It comes with a gauge rating of 8/3.
The NEMA 6-50 plug and receptor is superb for resistance against abrasion, moisture and oil. It also facilitates the flexibility of the cord. The 50 Amps receptacle design with LED indicators provides increased safety and better performance to indicate when it is ready to use. The STW jacket saves the product against harsh weather conditions and the moulded ends increase convenience and safety. The 40 feet length makes it ideal for both indoor and outdoor usage.
It is compatible with all kinds of welders. It weighs around 17 lbs and is black in colour.
Best Features:
- Current: 40 Amps
- Voltage: 250 V
- Length: 40 feet
- Gauge: 8/3
Pros:
- Protected from chemicals.
- Fireproof and water-resistant.
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor activities.
- Compatible with all welders.
Cons:
- For some packages, the pigtail was upside down.
3. RVGUARD Welder Extension Cord
RVMate is very reliable when it comes to the welder extension cord. It is perfect for heavy-duty and has a rating of 8/3 gauge with 40 Amps and 10,000 watts.
It features a NEMA 6-50 adaptor with STW jacketing which makes it resistant to moisture and water. Additionally, it also increases flexibility and prevents abrasion. The power indicator features a clear lighted receptor end which assists ease of use. All wires are high-quality copper which are tangle-free and flexible.
The additional strap and a carry bag enables easy portability and makes it easy to store anywhere. It weighs around 18 lbs and is black in colour.
Best Features:
- Current: 40 Amps
- Voltage: 250 V
- Length: 40 feet
- Gauge: 8
Pros:
- Moisture and water resistant.
- Lighted receptors at the ends.
- STW jacketing.
- Easy portability.
Cons:
- Defective design according to some users.
4. VEVOR Welder Extension Cord
Vevor has come up with a heavy-duty extension cord for welders which provides the extra length and good help for the welders. It features a heavy-duty 6-50R NEMA socket which is compatible with most welders and allows universal usage.
This extension cord has strong connections which prevents loosening of it in case of extreme weather conditions like snowstorms, rainstorms and heavy winds. The wires are all pure copper with SOFT power cord. It is rated at 40 Amps which is resistant to water and corrosion. Further, it features a male and female plug to ensure durability.
It has a male 6-50P NEMA plug and a female 6-50R NEMA plug which is easy to lock and a perfect fit. The STW jacket makes it suitable for both indoor and outdoor usage and flexible and manageable. The additional plastic strap allows easy portability.
Suitable for extensive use, it is compatible with all major welders. It weighs around 12 lbs and is black in colour.
Best Features:
- Current: 50 Amps
- Voltage: 250 V
- Length: 50 feet
- Gauge: 8
Pros:
- Ideal for extensive use.
- Resistant to harsh conditions.
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use.
- Added plastic strap increases portability.
Cons:
- Not the ideal packaging.
5. Parkworld Welder Extension Cord
This extension cord by ParkWorld comes with 100% copper conductor and is suitable for all heavy-duty purposes which is carried out by the welder.
The product features 3 prongs and a 6-50 NEMA connector positioned at right angles. It is rated suitable for 250V and 40 Amps. Also, it has a gauge rating of 8/3 STW with extension cord stranded wire with a maximum support of 40 amps overload with a maximum rate of 10,000 overload. The wires are moulded with electroplate copper terminals to avoid the surface oxidation successfully.
This 3-pole welding machine is universal to all welders for heavy-duty welding mechanisms. It weighs around 12 lbs and is blue in colour.
Best Features:
- Current: 50 Amps
- Voltage: 250 V
- Length: 25 feet
- Gauge: 8/3
Pros:
- 100% copper conductor.
- Gauge rating of 8/3.
- Comes with electroplate copper terminals.
- NEMA connector positioned at right angles.
Cons:
- Not suitable for 50 amps.
6. ClearMax Welder Extension Cord
ClearMax has come up with a welder extension cord which is perfect for professional use. It is rated suitable for 250 V, 10,000 watts and 40 amps. It features a female type plug 6-50R and a male type plug 6-50P NEMA plugs which is suitable for all industrial purposes.
This extension cord is durable and ideal for all heavy-duty purposes. The product is resistant to flame and fire and also protects the wires against water and moisture. Also, it is so strong that it is protected against rust and abrasion which makes it suitable for plasma cutters and welders.
These also come with unbreakable connectors which enables you to move the product while working as it features increased flexibility, performance and convenience. It also has a lighted indicator at the female end. Also, it can be connected with other adaptors and cords without any kinds of sparks.
Safety is ensured with the certification of CETL and ETL. It weighs just 10.72 pounds and is black in colour.
Best Features:
- Current: 40 Amps
- Voltage: 250 V
- Length: 25 feet
- Gauge: 8/3
Pros:
- Ideal for professional use.
- Durable and works well for heavy-duty purposes.
- Resistant to fire and water.
- Increased flexibility and performance.
Cons:
- Some people had problems with the length.
7. RVMATE Welder Extension Cord
RVMate has come up with a welder extension cord which has premium-quality pure copper wires and has STW jacket which makes it eligible for heavy-duty usage.
This is rated applicable for 40 amps and 8 gauge. It features 6-50 NEMA plug and has great resistance to abrasion. Also, it prevents oil from damaging the product. The lighted ends make it easy to use and the design makes it tangle-free and flexible for all kinds of use. It increases the safety featuring a moulded plug which makes sure that you have a safe connection.
The product is ETL approved and it is suitable for all kinds of welders. It weighs 17.96 lbs and is of the colour black.
Best Features:
- Current: 40 Amps
- Voltage: 250 V
- Length: 40 feet
- Gauge: 8
Pros:
- Has a 6-50 NEMA plug.
- Resistant to oil.
- Lighted ends for ease of use.
- Increased safety.
Cons:
- It is not suitable for household wiring.
8. pizety Welder Extension Cord
This extension cord is rated 10 gauge and features lighted ends for ease of use. The neon colours are perfect for better visibility and functionality.
This heavy-duty product has a jacketed coating which prevents damage caused by moisture and water. Also, it is resistant to flame and fire. It features a three outlet with 15 amps output and 1875 watts with lighted ends. Moreover, the ⅝-inch strain reliefs at the end of the connectors and plugs prevents them from pulling apart.
It is 25 feet long and weighs 5.16 lbs. It also has a Type B plug format.
Best Features:
- Current: 15 Amps
- Voltage: 125 V
- Length: 50 feet
- Gauge: 10
Pros:
- Lighted ends for ease of use.
- Secure jacketed coating.
- Resistant to fire.
- Strain reliefs at the end.
Cons:
- After-sales service is not up to mark.
9. Fekuar Welder Extension Cord
This is a 40 Amps/ 50 Amps rated welder extension cord with 3 prong plug and connector. The cord features a gauge rating of 8/3 and is 50 feet in length.
The wire is manufactured with all copper wires and is good for heavy-duty and resistant to flames. The STW sheath cover makes it resistant to the regular wear and tear and also protects from outer materials. On top of that, this product has superb abrasion and resistance to moisture and oil. The flexible nature allows the extension cord to be compatible with all welders.
This extension cord is perfectly suitable for both outdoor and indoor industrial use. It weighs 22.5 lbs and is black in colour.
Best Features:
- Current: 50 Amps
- Voltage: 220 V
- Length: 50 feet
- Gauge: 8/3
Pros:
- Gauge rating of 8/3.
- All copper wires.
- Resistant to regular wear and tear.
- Compatible with all welders.
Cons:
- It does not fit the standard household power outlets.
10. Eastwood Welder Extension Cord
This is a heavy-duty 12 gauge wire slow jacketed extension cord which is rated applicable for 600 V. The wire is made completely of copper.
The rubber coating which is used for the protection of the wires is resistant to abrasion and ageing. On top of that, it also protects the wires from all kinds of solvents and oils and reduces damage from ozone and water. This extension cord is tangle free and flexible which makes it easy to access. The LED power indicator at the female end of the extension cord makes it easy to use.
This is an UL listed product which features type B plug format. It weighs 6.16 lbs and is black in colour.
Best Features:
- Current: 40 Amps
- Voltage: 110 V
- Length: 25 ft
- Gauge: 12
Pros:
- Applicable for 600V.
- Rubber coating.
- LED power indicator.
Cons:
- Some people had issues with the length.
Things To Consider When Buying a Welder Extension Cord
In this section, we have listed some of the eminent features to look out for when selecting a welder extension cord. These features will help you choose your ideal one. We have discussed the features in detail.
1. Length
Firstly, you need to consider that welder extension cord which fulfils your purpose. You can find extension cords of varying lengths starting from 15 feet to 100 feet. The best part is that the price does not fluctuate much when the lengths differ. But, it is not advisable to go for the longest cord even if you do not need it.
In small or enclosed spaces, the long cords can be very problematic as they can be tangled and create a huge mess. Also, the longer cords are heavier in weight and are difficult to carry around. Further, the long cords suffer higher voltage drop than the smaller ones and reduce the functionality of the cords.
2. Gauge and Wire
Gauge is the unit used to measure the thickness of the wire. Also, the gauge is inversely proportional to the length of the wire. Therefore, smaller wires can carry less amperage or current and that gauge also decides the electric resistance and weight of the wire.
The measurement of gauge ranges from 0 to 30. Usually, a smaller gauge is suitable for the welder and the usual measurement of the gauge of the extension cords are from 8 to 12. The gauge measurement is represented as 12/3 or 8/4, and the number that is given before the slash sign is the gauge measurement while the number after the slash is the number of wires located inside the isolation cover.
3. Voltage
It is the measurement of the electrical potential. In simpler words, it is the electrical pressure that any cord can carry. Like all other electrical equipment, the extension cord has voltage ranges. The voltage ranges are in the scales 110V-120V-130V to 220V-230V-240V.
4. Amperage
This is the unit to measure the electric flow and also determines the speed of the current flow inside the cord. The usual reading of the amperage for most extension cords ranges from 30 amps, for the 120V cords to 50 amps, for the 220V cords. Also, the thicker cords can deliver more current.
5. Wattage
This is a useful measuring scale when dealing with a pile of extension cords. When you are using a 50 amps current flow extension cord with 120V, then the reading on the wattage scale is 600. The calculation to determine the wattage is voltage*amperage.
6. Protection
This is an eminent feature to consider when you are looking for welder extension cords. The first thing that you need to consider is the protection of the cords. You have to make sure that extension cord is perfectly compatible with the outlet and the welder. The better cords are resistant to heat and compatible with all weather. Also, you need to ensure that the extension cords are fireproof.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ans: Usually, the PE, or polyethylene is the preferred material for the wires used in the extension cords. PE is usually used as it is resistant to abrasion and are durable.
Ans: If you are using a 2-prong extension cord that uses 120 volts and 15 amps, then it will consume around 1440 watts in each hour. If you are using a 3-prong extension cord, that uses 120 volts and 20 amps, then it will lose around 2880 watts in each hour.
Ans: Well, unplugging a wet extension cord can have damaging and dangerous consequences. You should refrain from touching the extension cord while it is still wet. In the case of an outdoor extension cord, you should let it dry before unplugging it.
Ans: For an 8-gauge wire to handle around 30 amps on 120V or 240V, the 50-feet long extension cord is sufficient. Similarly, for a 6-gauge wire to work on 240V, the 5 feet long extension cord is ideal.
Ans: One should avoid using a lot of electrical appliances with a single extension cord at the same time. Also, multiple extension cords should not be plugged together. Oneshould never use an indoor extension cord with the outdoor one. Lastly, extension cords should not be put under furniture or rugs.
Final Word
With this guide at your disposal, choosing the best welder extension cord will be like a walk in the park. We have tried answering all your questions regarding them, but if you still have doubts, you can write to us in the comments section below.
If you are here for the recommendations, then we have listed our top three favourites. The first recommendation is Miady Welder Extension Cord. It is flexible with the use of copper wires and resistant to harsh weather conditions.
The second suggestion from our list is BougeRV Welder Extension Cord. It is protected from chemicals and is suitable for both indoor and outdoor activities.
The third and final recommendation from the list is RVGUARD Welder Extension Cord. It features light receptors at the end and is moisture and water resistant.
