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Page 6 For technical questions, please call 1-800-444-3353. SKU 08897
Grounded Tools:
Tools with Three Prong Plugs
3-Prong Plug and Outlet
1. Tools marked with “Grounding Required” have a three
wire cord and three prong grounding plug. The plug
must be connected to a properly grounded outlet.
If the tool should electrically malfunction or break
down, grounding provides a low resistance path to
carry electricity away from the user, reducing the risk
of electric shock. (See 3-Prong Plug and Outlet.)
2. The grounding prong in the plug is connected through
the green wire inside the cord to the grounding
system in the tool. The green wire in the cord must
be the only wire connected to the tool’s grounding
system and must never be attached to an electrically
“live” terminal. (See 3-Prong Plug and Outlet.)
3. The tool must be plugged into an appropriate outlet,
properly installed and grounded in accordance with
all codes and ordinances. The plug and outlet should
look like those in the preceding illustration.
(See 3-Prong Plug and Outlet.)
Double Insulated Tools:
Tools with Two Prong Plugs
Outlets for 2-Prong Plug
1. Tools marked “Double Insulated” do not
require grounding. They have a special
doubleinsulationsystemwhichsatises
OSHA requirements and complies with
the applicable standards of Underwriters
Laboratories,Inc.,theCanadianStandard
Association, and the National Electrical Code.
2. Double insulated tools may be used in either of the
120 volt outlets shown in the preceding illustration.
(See Outlets for 2-Prong Plug.)
Extension Cords
1. Grounded tools require a three wire extension
cord. Double Insulated tools can use either
a two or three wire extension cord.
2. As the distance from the supply outlet increases,
you must use a heavier gauge extension
cord. Using extension cords with inadequately
sized wire causes a serious drop in voltage,
resulting in loss of power and possible tool
damage. (See Table A on page 6.)
3. The smaller the gauge number of the wire, the
greater the capacity of the cord. For example,
a 14 gauge cord can carry a higher current
than a 16 gauge cord. (See Table A.)
4. When using more than one extension cord to make
up the total length, make sure each cord contains at
least the minimum wire size required. (See Table A.)
5. If you are using one extension cord for more
than one tool, add the nameplate amperes
and use the sum to determine the required
minimum cord size. (See Table A.)
6. If you are using an extension cord outdoors, make
sureitismarkedwiththesufx“W-A”(“W”in
Canada) to indicate it is acceptable for outdoor use.
7. Make sure the extension cord is properly wired
and in good electrical condition. Always replace
a damaged extension cord or have it repaired
byaqualiedelectricianbeforeusingit.
8. Protect the extension cords from sharp objects,
excessive heat, and damp or wet areas.
TABLE A: RECOMMENDED MINIMUM
WIRE GAUGE FOR EXTENSION CORDS*
(120/240 VOLT)
NAMEPLATE
AMPERES
(at full load)
EXTENSION CORD
LENGTH
25´ 50´ 75´ 100´ 150´
0 – 2.0 18 18 18 18 16
2.1 – 3.4 18 18 18 16 14
3.5 – 5.0 18 18 16 14 12
5.1 – 7.0 18 16 14 12 12
7.1 – 12.0 18 14 12 10 -
12.1 – 16.0 14 12 10 - -
16.1 – 20.0 12 10 - - -
* Based on limiting the line voltage drop to ve volts at
150% of the rated amperes.