Yard size varies from home to home, so you need to know the best extension cord for leaf blower. We have the guide and top recommended extension cords for any leaf blower and any yard.
The best extension cord for a leaf blower is the AmazonBasics 16/3 Vinyl Outdoor Cord because it supplies the correct amount of amperage of 12 amps or less, it has a wire thickness of 16-gauge, it’s a single socket 3-prong grounded plug for safety, it’s rated “W” for outdoor use and is 50 ft in length to cover your yard.
You can have the most powerful leaf blower, but it is no good if it cannot reach every corner of your yard. This is where the best extension cord comes into play.
However, it is not just as simple as picking a cord up front at the local hardware store. All cords are different and not all of them will work for your leaf blower.
Extension cords come in different lengths and have different power loads. It is important to understand the basics of extension cords, so you get the right one for your leaf blower.
Using our guide below and the top-rated products we researched for you will make sure that your safety comes first, and your yard will be leaf-free.
Table of Contents
What Kind Of Extension Cord For Leaf Blower
Chances are that your leaf blower will not come with a cord long enough to reach around your garden. You will need an extension cord.
There are a number of factors to consider before buying a cord. You do not want to risk overpowering the leaf blower nor do you want to cause an electrical shortage or injury.
You know you need an outdoor extension cord, but what about the amperage, wire thickness or gauge, and the length? Every power tool requires a specific amount of power and not every extension cord will allow for efficient work.
With our comprehensive guide, you will find the right extension cord for your leaf blower and the jobs you need to get done.
What Type Of Extension Cord For Leaf Blower
You need to get an outdoor extension cord for your leaf blower. These are made differently to those you can use indoors, and they are typically much longer. You will need a longer cord for your yard as well as a more durable cord that can handle higher electrical pulls.
Outdoor extension cords are made from copper and have tough covers that are made from plastic, vinyl, or rubber. Trying to use an indoor cord for your leaf blower vowels lead to overheating and damaged equipment or injury.
There are three categories of outdoor extension cords you can consider.
- Occasional Use Cords: these are suitable for smaller projects and tools and can work for leaf blowers
- Frequent Use Cords: these can handle larger tools and equipment and heavier use
- Rugged Cords: these are designed for continual use on job sites and use in extreme weather.
The type of extension cord you get will also be given a letter which helps to designate what it is best used for.
- S: flexible cord designed for general use (will work for leaf blower)
- W: Indicates the cord is rated for outdoor use (will work for leaf blower)
- J: Indicates the cord with standard 300 voltage insulation and is designed for heavier use
- P: Indicates parallel wire construction, and is typically used for air conditioner cords and household extension cords
- T: Indicates the cord jacket is made from vinyl thermoplastic (will work for leaf blower)
- E: Indicates the cord jacket is made from thermoplastic elastomer rubber (will work for leaf blower)
- O: Indicates the cord is oil-resistant
What Size Extension Cord For Leaf Blower
The length of an extension cord is important for a leaf blower. You can choose from 25 feet, 50 feet, 75 feet, 100 feet, and 150 feet or longer.
You need one that is long enough to reach all the areas of your yard and property. The average size you would get for a leaf blower is between 50 and 100 feet in length. This will cover medium to large yards.
The length of an extension cord also affects the resistance. Copper wire is a good conductor, but it does have resistance that can generate heat.
The more there is, the more heat can be generated, and this can potentially damage an extension cord. This is also a hazard for the leaf blower attached to the cord.
You need to consider the length, resistance, and the amperage the leaf blower will be drawing. Too much heat and electrical load can damage the cord and leaf blower.
For the average leaf blower an extension cord of length 50 or 100 feet will be safe. In addition to the size of the cord, the gauge is also important.
What Gauge Extension Cord For Leaf Blower
Gauge is a rating given to the diameter of copper wiring. Every extension cord will have a maximum amperage which is the limit on the current that it can conduct safely. If you connect anything with a higher current, you risk overheating the cord and the device.
A leaf blower will work with 12 amps or less so the best gauge for this will be 14-gauge (14 AWG) to 16-gauge. You also want to look for the “W” rating to designate the cord for outdoor use. A 14 AWG is the thinnest recommended for a leaf blower or any gardening appliance.
The cord’s gauge will be printed on the jacket. A lower AWG indicates a thicker wire and a higher capacity, so the lower you go, the more power can be delivered through that cord.
For devices like a leaf blower, you do not want to provide too much power, so do not get lower than a 14 AWG.
The length and gauge of the cord are related. Generally, extension cords will have the following gauges:
| Cord Length | Cord Thickness |
|---|---|
| 25 ft | 14/3 (14 AWG) |
| 50 ft | 12/3 (12 AWG) |
| 100 ft | 10/3 (10 AWG) |
How To Use Extension Cord With Leaf Blower
There are specific factors to remember when using an extension cord with your leaf blower. Remember that your extension cord is only to be used when the leaf blower is in use.
Make sure you unplug it and put it away when you are not working. You also cannot use the outdoor cord for your leaf blower indoors. Indoor cords are different to outdoor cords in several ways and you risk injury and electrical damage would you use them incorrectly.
Do not plug your extension cord into another extension cord. If you need more length, purchase a longer cord. You can risk overloading a cord when you plug extension cords into each other.
Even though your cord can be used outdoors make sure the plug is always kept dry and this means keeping the cord stored in a dry place.
Finally, before you attach the leaf blower to the extension cord, make sure the cord is fully seated in the socket.
Best Extension Cord For Leaf Blower
The best extension leaf blower is the AmazonBasics 16/3 Vinyl Outdoor Cord. For small to medium yards and non-demanding tools such as leaf blowers, this is the perfect cord.
When not used for leaf blowing and other gardening chores, it is great for a power source for a fountain or garden lights.
The thick vinyl coating protects the wiring from sunlight, moisture, and any abrasions. At 50 feet in length it is a great and safe choice for an average sized yard.
What I like:
- Perfect for average sized gardens
- Can be used on larger power tools too
- 3-prong outlet increases safety
- Available in other sizes
Best Budget Extension Cord For Leaf Blower
When you need a safe and reliable extension cord on a budget the best pick is the AmazonBasics 16/3 Outdoor Extension Cord with 3 Outlet. This gives you maneuverability and flexibility.
The insulated cable provides top safety and the 3 outlets helps you get every job done. The outlet is grounded for safety and the vinyl coating on the cord repels moisture and protects against sunlight and abrasions.
What I like:
- Easily coils up for storage
- All-copper wire
- Great for leaf blowers and seasonal equipment
What I don’t like:
- Not good for high power tools
Best Extension Cord For Worx Leaf Blower
While most extension cords will work for any leaf blower, you may want to get one that is best suited for the specific blower you have. For a Worx leaf blower, go with the Coleman 16/3 Outdoor Cable on Amazon.
It is for lighter duty chores such as leaf blowing and can even power your garden lights or fountains. The cord is designed specifically for landscaping work and the green coloring blends into your garden.
It is waterproof and can withstand all environmental challenges thanks to the highly durable vinyl jacket. The 40-foot option i s best for average sized gardens, but if you want to be safe there is an 80-foot option available as well.
What I like:
- Perfect power supply for leaf blowers
- Versatile in use and function
- Available in different lengths
- 13-amp power source
What I don’t like:
- Green coloring can make it hard to see which can be a hazard
Best Extension Cord For Toro Leaf Blower
When you have a Toro leaf blower, you want to go with this Otimo 100-Foot Outdoor Extension Cord from Amazon. While not good for heavy-duty power tools, it is perfect for your leaf blower and other moderate landscaping duties.
The 100-foot option is ideal for medium to larger sized yards, but you can also get the 50-foot version if you have a smaller yard.
You get 13-amps of power which is perfect for leaf blowers and the grounded plug makes safety a top priority.
What I like:
- Versatility in use (lights, fountains, power tools)
- Cord is ETL-listed, flame resistant, and grounded
- Available in different lengths
- Withstands colder weather
What I don’t like:
- Not suited for heavy-duty power tools
Best Extension Cord For 12 Amp Leaf Blower
The GoGreen Power GG-13800 Cord on Amazon is great for moderate to high powered tools. The 100-feet of cord covers medium to large sized gardens with ease and you will have more than enough power for your leaf blower.
Durable vinyl coating protects the all-cooper wiring from sunshine, cold weather, and moisture so you can use it through every season.
This cord is ETL-listed and made to contractor grade, so trusted by all the professionals. The lighted end of the plug also lets you know when power is on for added safety.
What I like:
- ETL-listed and approved
- For medium and high-powered tools
- Durable vinyl coating
What I don’t like:
- Risk of overpowering lower-amp tools
Best Extension Cord For Black And Decker Leaf Blower
For your Black & Decker leaf blower, the Southwire 100-Feet, Contractor Grade 12/3 Extension Cord on Amazon is your best bet. The lighted end of the cord lets you know when the cord is ready and safe for use, and the durable vinyl protects the wiring from weather and moisture.
You can use it in all conditions for every season. The unique patriotic coloring makes it stand out to avoid accidents and represents the USA-made quality.
What I like:
- UL and CUL listed and approved
- Available in different lengths
- Durable through all seasons
What I don’t like:
- Expensive
Extension Cord Buyers Guide
Because there are so many extension cords out there, we want to make sure you get the right one for your needs. Some will be too powerful for a leaf blower and you can risk injury and damaged equipment.
With our buying guide, you will learn all you need to know about extension cords so you can get the best extension cord for your leaf blower.
Amps, Volts, and Watts
Amps measure the flow of power running through a conductor. The greater the number, the more power the cord will provide.
The conductors responsible for the power in extension cords are copper wires. Volts measure the electrical force and watts measure the electricity used.
When it comes to extension cords, a certain number of amps are safe to carry for each one. You want to choose a cord that is rated for the same level of amps as the tool you are using.
Undersized cord can overheat and cause fire. Reliable extension cords will list the amps, watts, or volts on the packaging as well as in the manual.
Examples of cord length, amps, and gauge are below to help guide your choice.
| Gauge | Ratings | Amps |
|---|---|---|
| 16/2 | Basic Power | 13A (0-50’) or 10A (50-100’) |
| 16/3 | Basic Power | 13A (0-50’) or 10A (50-100’) |
| 14/3 | Extra Power | 15A (0-50’) or 13A (50-100’) |
| 12/3 | Pro Power | 15A (0-100’) |
| 10/3 | Ultra Power | 15A (0-100’) |
Gauge And Length
Length and gauge are directly related. For example, the longer in length the cord is, the lower your AWG number needs to be.
The gauge refers to the thickness of the wire and this impacts how much current the cord can carry. The length of the cord affects voltage drop, which is how much resistance causes voltage loss.
For gauges, the smaller the number, the thicker the wire. Regarding length, the longer the cord is, the greater the voltage drop will be. Longer extension cords have a lower capacity even when the AWG rating is the same.
Light-Duty Extension Cords
These cords are only to be used for light-duty tools or appliances. It is important to note that these cords are also not typically grounded.
They will have 2-prong plugs so should not be used with tools that have a 3-prong outlet cord. Ideal uses are lamps, clocks, and tools that only draw as much as 7 amps.
Medium-Duty Extension Cords
These cords will usually be grounded so will have the third prong and wire. They can be used for light to medium-duty tools such as televisions, computers, and lower-amp leaf blowers or gardening tools.
Heavy-Duty Extension Cords
These cords can draw between 10 to 15 amps of power and they are always grounded. Depending on the length of cord you get, you can use tools such as leaf blowers, hedge trimmers, and other appliances that draw up to 15 amps of power.
Built-In GFCI Protection
Anytime you use an extension cord outdoors where there could be moisture present, you want one that is GFCI protected. This stands for ground-fault-circuit-interrupter and is a specific type of protection for outdoor cords.
Some extension cords come with this built-in already to prevent shock hazards and accidents.
Helpful Tips To Find The Best Extension Cord For Leaf Blowers
You should be close to making a decision about the extension cord you need for your leaf blower. There are a few additional tips to help ensure you get the right fit for your needs.
Buy longer than you think you’ll need
It is not safe to plug extension cords into each other, so buy one that is longer than you think you will need. It is better to have a cord that is too long than one that is too short. A longer cord will also make sure you can reach every nook and cranny of your yard with ease.
Thicker means power
The thicker the cord is the more power it will carry. Remember that you do not want to overpower your leaf blower, so check what power it can handle. Choose the thickness of the cord accordingly.
Go for 15 Amps
If the gauge and length are confusing, you always look at the amperage. An extension cord rated with 15-amp capability.
Rather than picking a lower amperage and risk blowing the fuses, 15A breakers will cut off the power before that happens so your cord will never be maxed out. If the packaging does not list any amperage, avoid the product completely.
Final Thoughts
Having the right extension cord for your leaf blower is important. It is not just about getting the entire yard done, but you have to consider the power in the cords, the power of your leaf blower, and safety.
Having the wrong cord can leave you with leaves in half the yard or an overheated leaf blower.
We understand that there are thousands of extension cords out there and we want you to be safe. We have done the research for you and found the top picks for extension cords for any leaf blower and any yard size.
With our guide by your side, you will be sure to have the best extension cord for a leaf blower and the best-looking yard through every season.