Electrical – Window unit AC get outlet and plug hot

electrical

How come when I use an extension cord to run my ac the outlet and the plug of the extension cord gets hot it's on a 15 AMP breaker and the AC states it is pull 12 Amps and there is nothing else running on that breaker

Best Answer

Most AC units say specifically NOT to use extension cords. The reason for overheating is voltage drop caused by the possible smaller gauge of wire and length of the extension cord. An appliance rated at 12amps probably has a 14 or 12 gauge cord. If your extension is a smaller gauge, it may be too small for the current and heating up like an old fashion fuse.