If your washing machine power cord is too short and you don’t know what you should do to extend it in the correct way, this guide is for you. Usually, when someone just bought a new or second-hand washer for them, this issue mostly gets to seem. The good news is there are multiple ways to get the short-length cable to the wall socket.
You can use an extension cord compatible with your washer’s wattage and amperage, or move the unit closer to the outlet. Additionally, if you don’t want to use any extension cable, you can also install a new outlet. Don’t cut the existing cord as it can void the warranty.
Let’s understand what to consider when extending a too-short washing machine power cord with our comprehensive guide.
Table of Contents
Can You Extend a Washing Machine Cable?
Before you think of extending your washing machine’s too-short cable, you must know whether it is fine or not.
Extending a washing machine cable is fine and safe as long as done correctly. It is a possible task, but you need to take note of the compatibility of the new cord or extension cord that you will connect to your washer. For example, if you want to add a cable extension to an existing cord, you will need to check the new cord’s wattage, amperage, and load-handling capacity.
Sometimes an extension cord has the same specification which makes it fine to use. But sometimes that gets hot or damaged when individuals use the washer continuously for many washes. The quality of the new extension cord and the new cord is an important factor to look for.
You can also replace the existing short power cord with a new lengthy one. In this case, you can only replace the cord if the washer is out of warranty.
Changing or cutting the power cord of an under-warranty washer can void the warranty. So, you must consider these factors before making any decision regarding going with a new cord or extension cord.
What to Do If Your Washing Machine Power Cord Is Too Short?
You can go with four different methods when you find your washing machine cord is too short and it doesn’t reach the wall outlet.
Using an extension cord can make the existing power cord longer, and you can also replace the existing short cord with the new lengthy power cable. It’s important to note that you should only use a heavy-duty extension cord that’s rated for the wattage of your washing machine.
The other two methods are installing a new outlet closer to the washing machine or moving the appliance close to the power socket where it can reach the outlet.
However, you must ensure that your washing machine gets sufficient voltage to run and that no voltage drop will occur. Some people cut the plug of a short cord and connect a piece of wire to extend it, which is totally wrong and is not compatible to do. You should only use methods that are safe, compatible, and long-lasting.
Remember, it’s essential to prioritize safety when dealing with electrical appliances. If you have any concerns or questions, it’s always best to consult a professional.
What Size Extension Cord for Washing Machine?
The answer to how long is a washing machine power cord and extension cord depends on several factors. There is no fixed number for the size of the extension cord and power cable. In simple words, as long as you need to extend the cord, choose one accordingly.
For example, if the power cable of your washing machine is short, first measure the distance from the cord’s plug to the wall socket. If the measurement reading is a half meter, you need to have more than a half-meter long extension cord(0.7 or 1 meter)
Nowadays, it is easy to get every size of an extension cord. Online and offline are two mediums to get the right-sized extension cord for the washing machine.
In fact, it will be easier to find the right one through online stores. However, it totally depends on you how much size you want to increase, and then get a new extension cord to fulfill the requirement.
How to extend the washing machine power cable?
By reading this section, You will know how you can fix a short electrical cord in just a few steps.
First Solution:
Now, before proceeding to the first step, you will need a heavy-duty extension cord that’s rated for the wattage of your machine.
- Gather your materials:
First of all, you should consider the wattage usage of your washer. It means knowing the wattage handling capacity of your washer’s current cord. You can know this by reading the voltage usage of your appliance on its product description. It is essential to use the correct type of extension cord as it prevents overheating. Moreover, You will also need a power outlet that’s located close enough to your washing machine to reach with the extension cord.
- Turn off the power supply:
Make sure to unplug your washing machine from the outlet and turn off the power supply to the area where your machine is located. Don’t skip this step as it is important.
- Plug in the extension cord:
Once you have a new compatible extension cord, Plug it into the power outlet. make sure it’s secure and not loose. Note: Don’t use an extension cord that’s damaged or frayed, as this can lead to safety hazards. Don’t power on the socket till everything gets done.
- Connect the washing machine to the extension cord:
Now, hold the extension cord in your hands and Connect its other end to your washing machine, ensuring that it’s securely plugged in. Note: You must avoid running the cord under rugs or furniture, and make sure it’s not twisted or kinked in any way.
- Test the connection:
Once the extension cord is connected to your washing machine’s cord, now, plug your machine back into the power supply and turn it on to test the connection. If everything is working properly, the machine should power up and begin functioning normally.
Second Solution:
If you don’t want to add an extension cord, you can replace the current power cord with a needed one. Just get a new 6-8 foot appliance cord. Moreover, This is easy work that you can do by yourself.
Here’s how to do this:
- Unplug the washer and take a photo of how the cord is wired to the appliance.
- Remove the old cord and bring it to a hardware store to buy a longer equivalent or get it from any online hardware store.
- Match the new cord with the photo you took earlier and rewire it accordingly, consulting the manual for the correct power cord.
- Correctly install the new cord on the terminal block with the ground/neutral bond in place.
Things to Consider for Fixing a Short Code of a Washing Machine:
- Whether you decide to use an extension cord or a new cord, always check if its specifications are equivalent to existing ones.
- Always ensure your and your device’s safety.
- Only get high-quality and heavy-duty material to use and it will be long-lasting.
- If the washer is under warranty, you can contact manufacturer support for help as it can help you to prevent voiding warranting conditions.