Is It Safe to Use a 10-Foot Power Cord on an Electric Dryer?

Energy Loss

• As electricity travels through wires, it loses energy as heat. The insulation around wires protects nearby objects from the heat generated by the loss of electricity. The greater the distance, the greater the initial watts sent through the wire and the faster the loss of electricity. For most household uses, an extension cord is perfectly safe to use, as the loss is minimal.

NFPA Code

• Because an electric dryer needs so much electricity to run, even a little loss of power can be troublesome. For this reason the electrical code produced by the National Fire Protection Association requires appliance receptacles be installed within 6 feet of the intended location of the appliance.

NFPA the Final Word

• Electricians, national and local building codes, and manufacturers consider the NFPA the final word on electrical wiring. If an inspector were to notice that a receptacle was out of specifications, he would have the authority and power to shut down the building until the wiring was corrected. This is why the longest replacement cord you can purchase for a washer or dryer is 6 feet.

Circuit Box

• When the dryer isn't producing sufficient heat, it may have a problem receiving the power it needs. Ensure the dryer is securely plugged in and check the circuit box to see if one of the two circuit breakers is tripped. If it is, resetting it should have the dryer working well again. A recurring problem with circuits tripping should be checked by a professional.