Are you stuck in the Catch-22 situation where you have to buy longer chords to ensure the easy and smooth working of electrical products, but the long cords create problems for you? They are an even bigger problem at the time of storage.
We don’t have any direct solutions to help you manage the problem, but we can surely share ways to store the extended electrical cords. Knowing the proper process can help you in reducing the hassle involved during the process.
Also Read: How to store electrical bulbs
Why is it important to store the external cord properly?
Before we jump into how to store the extended electrical cords, here is why we should do it.
They look messy
Well, if you leave your extended cord lying by the floor for using it next time, it will give you a messy look. And we believe this is one of the important reasons you are searching for this article.
To maintain safety:
Another important element is maintaining safety and reducing the chances of tipping over the tangled wires. The risk of breaking the internal cord also rises with the improper usage of the electrical cords, which would ruin the purpose of keeping the electrical cord altogether.
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Get rid of the detangling problems:
If you just put the extended electrical cords in the cupboard without proper adjustments, you’ll have to spend a lot of time detangling them.
So, to eliminate all these problems, it is important to know the right method of storing extended electrical cords.
Ways to store the extended electrical cords:
Below are the main ways to store the extended electrical cord:
Hang it
One of the best, simplest, and easiest ways to store the external cord is to hang it on the wall. Use a hanger, nail, or hook to do so. But make sure you find such a corner of the room or extra space that you wouldn’t be much worried about in terms of look.
Use a bucket
Drill a hole near the bottom and put one end of the extended cord out from the hole while placing the rest of the wire inside. Your extended cord will find a safe place to stay until you take it out the next time.
Here’s what you need to do exactly:
- Fold each cord individually
- Store the cords in the bucket.
- Create dividers within the bucket and place each wire accordingly for better management.
Also Read: Line Voltage vs Low Voltage
A cord reel can be a solution:
You can create a reel for the cord using wood. Add a cylindrical piece in the middle of two pieces of plywood cut in a round shape. Ensure that all the pieces bind perfectly in the form of the reel. When your reel is ready, you can opt for the following process to get the most out of it:
- Now, spin the electrical cord around the reel. Make sure to be as organized as possible, as it will determine the health of your wire.
- Fasten the end of the cord to the reel holder to prevent it from unwinding.
- Store at a convenient place for the next use.
Also Read: How to read your electric meter?
Use a spool
You can wrap your wire around the spool to save it for future use. It works like a garden hose. However, it can damage the wire over the long run due to excessive pressure applied to the wire.
Velcro wraps can be a solution.
You can spiral wrap the code and use Velcro wraps on one side to keep the electrical cord sorted. These wraps are reusable and can let you store your wire every time you are done with your work.
Here’s how to use it:
- Straighten the cord; make sure it is detangled.
- After folding the cord in half, coil it in a nice loop.
- Attach the Velcro straps to ensure that the cord remains fastened.
Cord Ties
You can use cord ties, also known as cable ties or zip ties, to keep your cords neatly bundled. These ties are available in different sizes and colors and can be reused multiple times.
Cord Hangers
You can use cord hangers to hang your cords on walls or pegboards. These hangers come in different sizes and types, from simple hooks to more elaborate designs that can hold multiple cords.
- Create a loop at one end of the cord.
- Hang the looped end of the cord on the hook of the cord hanger.
- Coil the cord neatly around the hanger
Cord Bags
You can also use cord bags to store your cords. These bags are usually made of durable materials like canvas or nylon and have multiple compartments to organize your cords. They are also portable and easy to transport.
Also Read: Can electrical wiring be water damaged?
DIY Solution:
You don’t necessarily have to buy something specific to the cord hangers or clippers to store it efficiently. Using general household elements like paper towel rolls or PVC pipes can help. You can wrap the
If you prefer a DIY approach, consider using common household items like empty paper towel rolls or PVC pipe. Simply coil the cord and slide it into the tube. This method keeps cords untangled and prevents damage.
Summing up
Following the above methods can keep your extended electrical cord safe and easily reusable. Select the perfect method considering the length of the electrical cord. Seek help from a professional electrician if you are unsure about a wire’s condition.
