Did you know that microwaves are power-hungry appliances? They need a lot of electricity to heat your food quickly. Sometimes, the power outlet isn’t close enough. That’s where an extension cord comes in handy. But choosing the right one can be tricky. You might worry about it being safe or if it can handle the microwave’s power. Picking the wrong cord could be dangerous or just not work well.
This post will help you understand everything you need to know about extension cords for your microwave. We’ll talk about what makes a cord suitable for such a powerful appliance. You’ll learn about important things like wattage, gauge, and length. By the end, you’ll feel confident picking an extension cord that keeps your microwave running safely and efficiently. Let’s dive into how to find the perfect power partner for your kitchen.
Our Top 5 Extension Cord For Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Extension Cord For Microwave Detailed Reviews
1. POWTECH Heavy duty 6 FT Air Conditioner and Major Appliance Extension Cord UL Listed 14 Gauge
Rating: 8.9/10
Tired of those short appliance cords that don’t quite reach? The POWTECH Heavy Duty 6 FT Air Conditioner and Major Appliance Extension Cord is here to help. This sturdy cord is built tough, so you can easily power up your big appliances like washers, dryers, or refrigerators. It’s also great for power tools and other major appliances that need a reliable connection. Plus, it’s UL Listed, meaning it meets important safety rules.
What We Like:
- This cord is super strong. It can handle big appliances.
- The angle plug is smart. It lets the cord lie flat against the wall. This is great for tight spots.
- It has a tough vinyl covering for extra protection.
- It’s safe to use in any room, at home or at work.
- The 6-foot length gives you more flexibility.
- It’s UL Listed, so you know it’s safe.
What Could Be Improved:
- The cord is only 6 feet long. For some situations, you might need a longer cord.
- It only comes in grey. A few more color options could be nice.
This POWTECH extension cord is a solid choice for anyone needing a safe and reliable way to power their larger appliances. Its heavy-duty construction and thoughtful design make it a dependable addition to your home or workshop.
2. 16/3 Black Extension Cord 6 FT Indoor
Rating: 8.7/10
Tired of cords that are too short? This 16/3 Black Extension Cord is a handy 6-foot solution for your indoor power needs. It’s perfect for powering up laptops, coffee makers, and other office or home appliances. The 3-prong design ensures a secure connection, and the flexible cable makes it easy to manage.
What We Like:
- Powerful and Safe: This 6ft cord provides 13A of power, enough for many household items. It’s ETL listed, meaning it meets safety standards. The pure copper conductor ensures stable power.
- Built to Last: The cord is flexible and durable. It has been tested for over 2000 bends, so it can handle daily use. The rounded corner plug is also drop and wear-resistant.
- User-Friendly Design: Plugging and unplugging is simple thanks to the non-slip grips on the socket. Its 6-foot length is just right for most indoor spaces, giving your devices a bit more reach.
- Versatile Indoor Use: This black extension cord works well for coffee makers, fans, laptops, and even small TVs. It easily fits into home and office setups.
What Could Be Improved:
- Limited Length: While 6 feet is great for many situations, it might not be long enough for everyone’s needs.
- Single Color Option: The cord is only available in black, which might not match all decor styles.
This extension cord is a reliable and convenient choice for adding a bit more reach to your electronics indoors. It offers good power and durability for everyday tasks.
3. 3FT 13A 125V 1625W ETL Listed，16/3 Indoor Extension Cord Black，Short Extension Cord for Laptops
Rating: 8.8/10
Need a little extra reach for your electronics? This 3-foot, 13-amp indoor extension cord is a handy solution for powering up your everyday devices. Its black, durable cable is designed for indoor use, making it perfect for your home or office.
What We Like:
- Powerful and Stable: The 16-gauge pure copper wire delivers a steady 13A, 125V, and 1625W, safely powering many common appliances.
- Safety First: It’s ETL listed for safety and features a strain relief design to prevent damage. The rounded corners on the plug also help protect it if dropped.
- Built to Last: This cord is tested for over 2,000 bends, meaning it’s flexible and durable enough for regular use.
- Easy to Use: The non-slip design on the plug makes it simple to connect and disconnect. Its short length is ideal for tight spaces.
- Versatile Indoor Use: Perfect for laptops, coffee makers, fans, and more, it extends the reach of your devices in any indoor setting.
What Could Be Improved:
- Indoor Only: This cord is strictly for indoor use and cannot be used in damp or outdoor environments.
- Not for High-Power Devices: It’s important to avoid overloading the cord. It’s not suitable for very high-power appliances like microwaves or hair dryers.
This short extension cord offers a reliable and safe way to power your essential indoor electronics. It’s a practical choice for extending the reach of your devices in your home or office.
4. Appliance Extension Cord with Individual Switches on Off – 5 FT
Rating: 8.7/10
Tired of tangled cords and limited outlets? This Appliance Extension Cord with Individual Switches on Off is a game-changer for your home or workspace. It’s a heavy-duty 5-foot cord designed to power all your devices safely and efficiently. With individual switches for each outlet, you get total control over your power usage. Plus, built-in USB ports make charging your gadgets a breeze.
What We Like:
- It turns one outlet into eight, plus three USB ports, including a USB-C!
- Each outlet has its own on/off switch, so you can save energy and prevent phantom drain.
- The cord is heavy-duty (14 gauge) and can handle high wattage, perfect for appliances like microwaves or power tools.
- It has built-in protection against power surges and overloads, keeping your devices safe.
- You can even mount it to a wall for a tidy and organized setup.
- The fire-resistant material offers extra peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 5-foot cord length might be a bit short for some larger spaces.
This power strip is a fantastic solution for anyone needing more outlets and better control over their power. It’s a safe, reliable, and convenient addition to any kitchen, garage, or workbench.
5. KUNCAN Appliance Power Extension Cord – 3 Prong Flat Wire SPT-3 14 AWG Heavy Duty Male to Female Extender Low Profile Grounded Cable for Major AC Unit
Rating: 9.3/10
The KUNCAN Appliance Power Extension Cord is a sturdy and reliable solution for powering your high-demand appliances. Its flat design and heavy-duty construction make it ideal for tight spaces and demanding tasks.
What We Like:
- The 3-foot length is perfect for connecting appliances without excess cord clutter.
- Its flat, right-angle plug and parallel cord let you push furniture and appliances close to the wall, saving valuable space.
- The SPT-3 14 AWG wiring is heavy-duty, safely handling up to 1875 watts, making it suitable for refrigerators, AC units, and power tools.
- Pure copper conductors help prevent overheating, ensuring safer operation.
- Grip grooves on the female end make plugging and unplugging appliances easy and convenient.
- The vinyl insulation protects the cord from sunlight, moisture, and wear and tear.
- KUNCAN offers a great warranty and customer service, giving you peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- This cord is designed for indoor use only, limiting its application outdoors.
- While 3 feet is useful, a longer option might be needed for some setups.
This extension cord is a solid choice for anyone needing a dependable way to power their larger appliances. Its thoughtful design and robust build make it a great addition to any home or workshop.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Powering Your Microwave Safely
Microwaves use a lot of electricity. You need the right extension cord to power yours safely. This guide will help you choose the best one.
Key Features to Look For
1. Gauge (Thickness)
The gauge tells you how thick the wire is. Thicker wires carry more electricity safely. For microwaves, you need a thick cord. Look for a 14-gauge or 12-gauge cord. A 16-gauge cord is too thin for most microwaves. It can get hot and be dangerous.
2. Length
Measure the distance from your outlet to where your microwave will sit. Choose a cord that is long enough, but not too long. A very long cord can be a tripping hazard. It can also lose some power over distance.
3. Amperage Rating
This tells you how much electricity the cord can handle. Microwaves need a cord that can handle at least 15 amps. Most kitchen outlets are on 15-amp circuits. Check your microwave’s manual for its exact amperage needs.
4. Plug Type
Most microwaves use a standard three-prong plug. Make sure the extension cord has a matching three-prong plug. One prong is for grounding, which is important for safety.
5. Cord Construction
Look for a cord that is durable and flexible. It should be able to withstand regular use without breaking.
Important Materials
The wire inside the cord is usually copper. Copper is a good conductor of electricity. The outer jacket of the cord is often made of PVC (polyvinyl chloride). This material protects the wires and makes the cord resistant to damage. A good quality cord uses pure copper and strong PVC.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Improving Quality:
- Heavy-Duty Construction: A cord built with thicker wire and robust insulation will last longer and handle more power.
- UL or ETL Certification: These certifications mean the cord has been tested and meets safety standards.
- Reinforced Connectors: The points where the plug and the socket connect should be strong and not flimsy.
Reducing Quality:
- Thin Wires (High Gauge Number): These can overheat and become a fire risk.
- Cheap Materials: Using lower-quality copper or brittle plastic can lead to early failure.
- Uncertified Cords: These may not meet safety regulations and could be dangerous.
User Experience and Use Cases
When you buy the right extension cord, using your microwave is simple. You plug the cord into the wall outlet, and then plug the microwave into the cord. It’s like giving your microwave a longer reach. This is very helpful if the outlet isn’t close by. You can place your microwave on the counter, a shelf, or even a small table where it’s convenient. A good cord makes it easy to set up your kitchen the way you want. A bad cord, however, can be a headache. It might not power the microwave properly, or worse, it could be unsafe. Always choose a cord made for high-power appliances like microwaves. This ensures your cooking is safe and efficient.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use any extension cord for my microwave?
A: No, you cannot use any extension cord. Microwaves need a heavy-duty cord with a thick gauge (14 or 12) and a high amperage rating (at least 15 amps).
Q: What is the best gauge for a microwave extension cord?
A: The best gauge is 14 or 12. These are thick enough to handle the power a microwave needs without overheating.
Q: How long should my microwave extension cord be?
A: Measure the distance you need. Choose a cord that is long enough to reach comfortably but not so long that it becomes a tripping hazard.
Q: What does amperage rating mean?
A: Amperage rating tells you how much electricity the cord can safely carry. Microwaves need at least 15 amps.
Q: Is a three-prong plug important for a microwave extension cord?
A: Yes, a three-prong plug is very important. The third prong is for grounding, which helps protect you and the appliance from electrical surges.
Q: What happens if I use a thin extension cord (like 16-gauge) for my microwave?
A: Using a thin cord can cause it to overheat, melt, and even start a fire. It can also damage your microwave.
Q: Where can I find the amperage requirement for my microwave?
A: You can usually find this information in your microwave’s user manual or on a sticker on the back or inside the door of the microwave.
Q: Are certified extension cords safer?
A: Yes, cords with UL or ETL certification have been tested and meet safety standards, making them safer to use.
Q: Can I plug other appliances into the same extension cord as my microwave?
A: It is generally not recommended to plug other high-power appliances into the same extension cord as your microwave. This can overload the cord and the circuit.
Q: How should I store my extension cord when I’m not using it?
A: Store it neatly coiled, away from heat and moisture, to prevent damage and ensure it lasts longer.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Larry Fish, the mind behind MyGrinderGuide.com.. With a passion for all things kitchen appliances, I created this blog to share my hands-on experience and expert knowledge. Whether it’s helping you choose the right tools for your culinary adventures or offering tips to make your kitchen more efficient, I’m here to guide you. My goal is to make your time in the kitchen not only easier but also enjoyable! Welcome to my world of kitchen mastery!