Extension cord-related fires fill the statistics engines. An estimated 3,300 residential fires are caused by extension cords each year, resulting in 1609 fatalities and 270 injuries. Often, round cords become tripping hazards and cause electrical malfunctions.
This raises a straightforward issue, demonstrating the need for safer alternatives like flat extension cord. Flat extension cords are designed with a skinny profile, which allows them to lie up against surfaces, unlike traditional round cords, which become bulky and cumbersome.
The novelty of such a design increases their functionality and makes them more popular in modern homes and offices. Flat extension cords have become a practical solution as people desire to create eventless and aesthetically attractive rooms.
Here are six benefits they offer.
How Flat Extension Cords Can Benefit You
1. Aesthetics and Organization
Flat extension cords look more organized and add to any space’s appearance. The low-profile design, which is easy to conceal behind furniture, makes this item low on visual clutter. Whereas round cords can jar up a space’s flow, flat cords pass under rugs and along baseboards.
This feature eliminates tripping hazards and makes it ideal for smaller spaces. Stylish in design, they match well with modern interiors. They provide a great choice of colors and finishes so homeowners can choose what suits the interiors best.
Moreover, you can discreetly hide the best flat extension cord behind a desk in a home or office for everyday use. This organization will help you clear clutter from your workspace and reduce distractions from tangled cords.
2. Durability and Longevity
Generally speaking, flat extension cords are more durable than round tubes. As a high-quality material, PVC (polyvinyl chloride) resists wear and environmental factors in many flat cords that use it as insulation and withstand daily use without significant degradation.
Additionally, since their flat design eliminates the risk of kinking or bending, this reduces the likelihood that internal wiring would become damaged or integral in time. According to industry reports, round cables develop stress unevenly compared to flat wires.
This feature minimizes wear. A study from the Electrical Safety Foundation International (ESFI) also finds that higher-quality extension cords add to the lifespan of connected appliances by preventing overheating and electrical problems from occurring.
3. Safety
Flat extension cords are a safe way to use electrical devices and have some benefits. The tripping hazards are significantly less as the bulky round cords have been replaced by a low-profile design.
You can place them near the ground without obstruction, making them perfect for high-traffic areas. In addition, flat cords are less likely to snag on furniture or other objects than round cords. They tend to snag easily and are less likely to cause safety hazards.
Such flat extension cords comply with industry standards and check strict safety confirmations from organizations such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL). For instance, #16 gauge or larger wire, safety closures, and warning labels comprise UL-listed cords.
4. Versatility and Flexibility
Flat extension cords are very versatile and well-suited for home and office use. Their design makes it easy to route through tight spaces and corners. These may be perfect for use in hard-to-reach places behind furniture or around walls where round cords might struggle.
They can be flexible and fit onto various surfaces while maintaining their performance. Flat extension cords are suitable for supplying power to devices in living rooms or linking equipment in offices or spaces where appearance is essential, such as galleries or showrooms.
However, their innovative design allows for imaginative setups. These include disguising them under the carpeting of home theaters while retaining the power to entertainment tonnage without perturbing the effect.
5. Portability and Convenience
Flat extension cords are also great for traveling and are highly portable and convenient. As lightweight, they are easy to roll and may be stored in drawers or bags without occupying much room, thereby being helpful for those who travel frequently or need temporary power solutions.
One of its handy features is that it simplifies transport for various devices and is convenient in more confined places such as workshops or small offices. Many models offer multiple outlets or USB ports to add user-friendliness when connecting to various devices.
Furthermore, some flat extension cords offer surge protection features, guarding your connected devices against undesirable power surges or spikes for uninterrupted protection.
6. Cost-Effective
Buying flat extension cords can save you much money in the long run. It keeps getting more durable as it wears. This benefit means that it lasts longer with fewer replacements and saves money.
Market research suggests that investing in flat extension cords with low maintenance costs produces 30% savings against five years of replacement costs compared to cheaper alternatives. Furthermore, some are constructed to be energy efficient, such as reducing energy loss during transmission for electricity bills.
Flat extension cords cost less than round extension cords, usually $10 to $30, depending on how long you need them and what features you want. Thus, they are a cost-effective means of getting reliable power without overspending.
Conclusion
These benefits of flat extension cords make them an excellent choice for present-day homes and offices. Compared to traditional round extension cords, these cables are unique. You can also add flat extension cords to your setup for a more organized and safe setup of electrical wires. Search for high-quality products that meet your needs and are safe and effective from reputable brands.
