Can you use extension cords outside safely? Yes — but only if the plug connection is protected from moisture. An extension cord cover like CordSafe PLUS snaps over the male-female plug junction in seconds, creating a weather-resistant seal that protects 12-18 AWG cords from rain, snow, and ground moisture. It works on cords that are already connected — no threading or pre-planning required. Made in USA.
Tom's Quick Answer: Snap CordSafe PLUS over the plug connection, position the cord off wet ground when possible, and always use an outdoor-rated (12-14 AWG) cord. That's it.
Tom's Real-World Advice
I've been running extension cords to my garage, garden shed, and campsite for years. The plug connection is always the weak point — that's where water gets in, where corrosion starts, and where the real fire risk lives. A bare plug sitting on wet grass or a damp deck isn't just inconvenient. It's a genuine hazard.
CordSafe PLUS changed how I think about outdoor power. It snaps on in seconds, fits any 12-18 AWG cord, and I leave it on all season. I use it on my garden irrigation timer, my outdoor string lights, and my RV hookup. Once you use one, you'll wonder why every outdoor cord doesn't come with one.
Step-by-Step: How to Use CordSafe PLUS
- Choose the right cord gauge. CordSafe PLUS fits 12-18 AWG extension cords — the standard range for most outdoor household and RV use. Check your cord's gauge printed on the jacket.
- Connect your devices first. Plug your extension cord into your device or power strip before applying the cover.
- Snap CordSafe PLUS over the plug junction. Open the hinged cover, place it over the male-female plug connection, and snap it shut. The weather-resistant seal closes around the cord.
- Position the cord safely. Keep the covered connection off the ground when possible. Use a hook, stake, or elevated surface to minimize ground contact.
- Inspect before each use. Check for cracks, UV degradation, or debris inside the cover before each season.
Where CordSafe PLUS Works Best
- Outdoor string lights and holiday lighting
- Garden irrigation timers and pumps
- Garage and workshop extension runs
- RV campsite hookups
- Tailgating and outdoor event power
- Deck and patio power tools
Safety Rules Tom Never Breaks
- Never use indoor-rated extension cords outdoors, even with a cover
- Never run cords under rugs, through doorways, or across high-traffic areas
- Never daisy-chain multiple extension cords for permanent power runs
- Always use a GFCI outlet or GFCI adapter for outdoor circuits
- Replace any cord with cracked, frayed, or discolored insulation immediately
FAQs
What AWG extension cord do I need for outdoor use?
For most outdoor household use — power tools, string lights, garden equipment — a 12 or 14 AWG cord is recommended. 12 AWG handles up to 20 amps and is ideal for longer runs. 16-18 AWG is fine for low-draw devices like timers and small lights. CordSafe PLUS fits all of these.
Is CordSafe PLUS waterproof?
CordSafe PLUS is weather-resistant, not fully submersible. It protects against rain, snow, and moisture splash — the conditions you encounter in normal outdoor use. Do not submerge it or use it in standing water.
Can I leave CordSafe PLUS on all season?
Yes. CordSafe PLUS is UV-resistant and designed for extended outdoor exposure. Many users leave it in place from spring through fall without removing it between uses.
Does CordSafe PLUS work on RV hookups?
Yes. CordSafe PLUS fits standard 12-18 AWG cords, which covers most RV shore power extension cords. It's a popular choice for campsite use where ground moisture is a constant concern.
Is CordSafe PLUS Made in USA?
Yes. CordSafe PLUS is manufactured in the United States.
More CordSafe Resources: CordSafe Extension Cord Safety Hub | Shop CordSafe PLUS | Learn From Tom
