Is your microwave cord just a little too short? Many of us face this common kitchen problem. You want to place your microwave just where it looks best, but the nearest outlet is just out of reach. It’s frustrating when a simple appliance needs a bit more freedom!
Choosing an extension cord for your microwave might seem easy, but it’s actually quite important. Not all cords are made the same, and using the wrong one can be a safety hazard. You need a cord that can handle the microwave’s power without overheating or causing problems. It’s about keeping your kitchen safe and your microwave running smoothly.
In this post, we’ll break down exactly what you need to know. We’ll cover how to pick the perfect extension cord so you can finally put your microwave exactly where you want it. Get ready to learn how to make a safe and smart choice for your kitchen!
Our Top 5 Extension Cord For Microwave Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Extension Cord For Microwave Detailed Reviews
1. Appliance Extension Cord – 6ft Heavy Duty Gray Extension Wire for Air Conditioner
Rating: 8.9/10
Tired of those bulky cords getting in the way? This 6ft Heavy Duty Gray Appliance Extension Cord is designed to solve that problem. It’s perfect for powering all your major appliances, from your air conditioner to your refrigerator, and even your microwave. Its heavy-duty construction and 14-gauge wire mean it can handle high voltage safely. Plus, the flat-end plug fits snugly behind furniture, saving you valuable space.
What We Like:
- Powers big appliances like air conditioners, refrigerators, and microwaves.
- The flat, 90-degree plug fits easily behind furniture and in tight spots.
- Made with thick 14 AWG wire, making it safer and more reliable.
- Has easy-grip grooves on the female end for simple plugging and unplugging.
- Can handle up to 1875 watts, so it’s strong enough for many devices.
What Could Be Improved:
- It’s only 6 feet long, which might not be long enough for some needs.
- It’s designed for indoor use only.
This extension cord is a solid choice for safely powering your appliances and keeping your living space tidy. It offers both power and practicality for everyday use.
2. EP 3 Ft Heavy Duty Appliance Extension Cord – 14 Gauge 3 Prong Grounded Cable Wire
Rating: 9.3/10
Tired of bulky cords getting in the way? The EP 3 Ft Heavy Duty Appliance Extension Cord is here to save the day! This sturdy, gray cord is designed to power all your big appliances safely and efficiently. Its smart, flat plug tucks away neatly, so you can finally use those tight spaces behind your fridge or washing machine without a struggle. Plus, it’s built tough to handle anything you throw at it.
What We Like:
- The flat plug is a game-changer for saving space and fitting into tight spots.
- It’s super versatile, working with everything from air conditioners to microwaves.
- It’s UL-listed, meaning it’s tested and safe to use.
- The heavy-duty 14-gauge wire and strong construction give you peace of mind.
- The durable jacket protects the cord from damage, making it last longer.
- Reinforced insulation adds an extra layer of safety for reliable power.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 3-foot length might be too short for some setups, so measure your space first.
- It’s designed for indoor use only, so don’t plan on using it outside.
This extension cord is a fantastic, safe solution for powering your essential home appliances. It’s a reliable choice for anyone needing a durable and space-saving power extension.
3. Appliance Extension Cord with Individual Switches on Off – 5 FT
Rating: 8.9/10
Tired of tangled cords and limited outlets? This Appliance Extension Cord with Individual Switches is a game-changer for any home or workspace. It turns one wall outlet into a super-powered hub with eight regular outlets, three USB ports (including USB-C), and best of all, individual on/off switches for each! This means you can easily power down appliances without unplugging them, saving energy and protecting your devices. Plus, its heavy-duty 14-gauge wire and 1875-watt capacity mean it can handle everything from your microwave to your power tools. It even mounts to the wall, making your space neat and organized.
What We Like:
- Eight outlets and three USB ports (one USB-C) provide tons of charging options.
- Individual switches let you control power easily, saving energy.
- Heavy-duty 14-gauge wire handles high-wattage appliances like microwaves and power tools.
- Built-in overload and surge protection keep your devices safe.
- Mounting holes allow for secure wall installation, keeping things tidy.
- Fire-resistant materials make it a safe choice.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 5-foot cord length might be a bit short for some needs.
This extension cord is an excellent solution for anyone needing more power and better control. It’s a must-have for keeping your kitchen, garage, or workbench organized and powered up safely.
4. POWTECH Heavy duty 6 FT Air Conditioner and Major Appliance Extension Cord UL Listed 14 Gauge
Rating: 8.6/10
Tired of cords not reaching your big appliances? The POWTECH Heavy Duty 6 FT Air Conditioner and Major Appliance Extension Cord is here to help! This sturdy cord is built tough for your biggest gadgets. It’s perfect for refrigerators, washers, dryers, and even power tools. Its special angled plug fits snugly against the wall, saving space in tight spots. Plus, it’s UL Listed, meaning it meets important safety rules, so you can use it anywhere in your home or office with confidence. The grey color blends in nicely too!
What We Like:
- It’s super strong and can handle powerful appliances like air conditioners and refrigerators.
- The angled plug is a smart design that lets you push furniture closer to the wall.
- It’s UL Listed, so you know it’s safe to use.
- The 14-gauge wire and 1875-watt capacity mean it can carry a lot of power without getting hot.
- It’s a good length at 6 feet, giving you extra reach.
What Could Be Improved:
- The grey color might not match every room’s decor.
- It’s a fixed length, so if you need longer, you’ll need a different cord.
This POWTECH extension cord is a reliable and safe way to power your major appliances. It’s a solid choice for anyone needing a heavy-duty extension solution.
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: 8.6/10
This KUNCAN Appliance Power Extension Cord is a heavy-duty solution for powering your large appliances. Its 3-foot length and flat wire design make it ideal for tight spaces, allowing you to push furniture and appliances closer to the wall. The durable vinyl insulation protects the cord from damage, and the 14 AWG, 15A/125V/1875W rating means it can handle even your most power-hungry devices.
What We Like:
- The low-profile, right-angle flat plug fits neatly behind furniture and appliances, saving valuable space.
- SPT-3 14 AWG heavy-duty construction with 100% pure copper conductors ensures safe and reliable power delivery for high-wattage appliances.
- The flexible, insulated vinyl jacket protects the cord from sunlight, moisture, and abrasions, making it durable for household use.
- Grip grooves on the female end make connecting and disconnecting appliances easy and convenient.
- It’s perfect for a wide range of major appliances, including air conditioners, refrigerators, and power tools.
- KUNCAN offers a 18-month warranty and excellent customer support, providing peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 3-foot length might be too short for some specific placement needs, requiring the purchase of additional cords.
- While designed for indoor use, the lack of outdoor rating limits its versatility in some situations.
This KUNCAN extension cord is a robust and space-saving option for powering your major appliances. Its thoughtful design and heavy-duty build make it a reliable choice for any home.
Choosing the Right Extension Cord for Your Microwave
Are you looking for an extension cord for your microwave?
Microwaves use a lot of electricity. They need a sturdy cord to handle the power. This guide will help you pick the best one.
1. Key Features to Look For
A. Gauge (Thickness)
The gauge is how thick the wire is inside the cord. Thicker wires have lower gauge numbers. For microwaves, you want a cord with a gauge of 14 or 12. These are thick enough for the power a microwave needs. A thinner cord (higher gauge number) can get too hot. This is dangerous.
B. Amperage Rating
Amperage (amps) is how much electrical current the cord can safely carry. Microwaves usually need a cord rated for at least 15 amps. Always check your microwave’s manual for its specific amp requirement. Using a cord with a lower amp rating can cause it to overheat.
C. Length
Measure the distance from your microwave to the outlet. Choose a cord that is long enough. But don’t pick one that’s too long. Extra-long cords can be a tripping hazard. They can also lose some power over very long distances.
D. Number of Outlets (Plugs)
Most microwaves need a cord with three prongs. This includes a ground pin. The ground pin is important for safety. It protects you from electric shock. Make sure the cord has a grounded plug (three prongs).
E. Cord Construction
Look for cords that are made to last. They should feel strong and flexible. The outer jacket should protect the wires inside from damage.
2. Important Materials
A. Copper Wire
Good extension cords use copper wire. Copper is a great conductor of electricity. It handles power well. It doesn’t get as hot as other metals.
B. Durable Outer Jacket
The outside of the cord, called the jacket, should be tough. Materials like PVC (polyvinyl chloride) are common. A good jacket protects the wires from cuts, scrapes, and moisture.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
A. What Makes a Cord Better
- Heavy-Duty Construction: Cords made with thicker gauge wire and a strong jacket are better.
- Reputable Brand: Well-known brands often make safer, more reliable products.
- UL or ETL Certification: This means the cord has been tested for safety. Look for these labels.
B. What Makes a Cord Worse
- Thin Wire (High Gauge): This can overheat and cause a fire.
- Cheap Materials: Cords made with poor quality plastic or aluminum wire are less safe.
- No Grounding Pin: A cord without a third prong is not safe for a microwave.
- Damaged Cords: Never use a cord that is frayed, cut, or has exposed wires.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
A. Where You’ll Use It
You might need an extension cord if your microwave’s cord is too short to reach an outlet. This is common in kitchens. Sometimes outlets are in awkward places. An extension cord gives you more flexibility.
B. Safety First!
Always plug the extension cord directly into the wall outlet. Do not plug another extension cord into it. This is called “daisy-chaining” and is very dangerous. Keep the cord away from water. Make sure it isn’t pinched under heavy objects.
Using the wrong extension cord can be risky. By checking the gauge, amp rating, and safety certifications, you can choose a cord that keeps your kitchen safe and your microwave running smoothly.
Microwave Extension Cord FAQs
Q1: Can I use any extension cord for my microwave?
A1: No, not just any cord. Microwaves need heavy-duty cords. Look for a 14 or 12 gauge cord with a 15-amp rating.
Q2: What does “gauge” mean for an extension cord?
A2: Gauge tells you how thick the wire is. A lower number means a thicker wire. Thicker wire is better for high-power appliances like microwaves.
Q3: How many amps does a microwave need?
A3: Most microwaves need at least 15 amps. Always check your microwave’s manual for the exact requirement.
Q4: Is a three-prong plug important for a microwave extension cord?
A4: Yes, very important! The third prong is for grounding. It helps prevent electric shock and keeps you safe.
Q5: What is the safest length for a microwave extension cord?
A5: Pick a length that is just long enough. Avoid extra-long cords. They can be a tripping hazard and might lose power.
Q6: Can I plug other appliances into the same extension cord as my microwave?
A6: It’s best not to. Microwaves use a lot of power. Plugging other things in might overload the cord or the outlet.
Q7: What does UL or ETL certification mean?
A7: It means the cord has been tested by an independent company. They check if it meets safety standards. It’s a good sign of quality.
Q8: What should I do if my extension cord is damaged?
A8: Never use a damaged cord. If it’s frayed, cut, or has exposed wires, throw it away and get a new one.
Q9: Can I plug an extension cord into another extension cord?
A9: Absolutely not! This is called “daisy-chaining” and is very dangerous. It can cause overheating and fires.
Q10: Where should I plug my microwave’s extension cord?
A10: Plug it directly into a wall outlet. Avoid plugging it into power strips or other extension cords.
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.