Air Compressor Not Working With Extension Cord? (Air Problems)

Air compressors are useful tools that are used in a variety of applications, such as inflating tires, operating power tools, and painting. They work by compressing and storing air in a tank, which can then be released through a hose to power various tools and equipment.

However, one common problem that users may encounter when using an air compressor is that it does not work when connected to an extension. This can be frustrating as cheap mass produced cords can drop voltage and may prevent the air compressor from being used for the intended task which isn’t what you want obviously.

In this article, I will dive into the possible causes of an air compressor not working with an extension cord, and provide tips for troubleshooting and using an air compressor with an extension safely and efficiently. By understanding the root causes of this problem and following the troubleshooting steps and tips outlined in this article, you can ensure that you get the air pressure that you need and the compressor can be used to its full potential.

Possible Causes Of The Problem

There are several possible causes of an air compressor not working when connected to an extension. Here are some of the most common reasons:

Length of the extension cords

The length of the extension cord can play a role in whether or not the air compressor will work properly. If the extension cord is too long, it can result in a voltage drop, which can cause the air compressor to not work properly or even shut off.

A general rule of thumb is to use an extension cord that is no longer than 50 feet for a 15-amp circuit, and no longer than 100 feet for a 20-amp circuit.

Gauge of the cord

The gauge of the extension cord refers to its thickness and is indicated by a number. A lower number means a thicker cord, which can handle more current and is better suited for power tools.

For an air compressor, it is recommended to use an extension cord with a gauge of 12 or lower.

Power rating of the cord

The power rating of the extension refers to the amount of current it can safely handle when running something. It is important to use an extension cord that is rated for the power requirements of the air compressor.

If the extension cord is not rated for the power of the air compressor, it can result in the air compressor not working properly or even damaging the extension cord or air compressor.

Condition of the extension cord

The condition of the extension cord can also affect whether or not the air compressor will be running properly (or even if it blows a fuse). If the extension cord is frayed, damaged, or has exposed wires, it can result in the air compressor not functioning correctly. It is important to regularly inspect the extension cord for any visible damage and replace it if necessary.

By understanding these possible issues with an air compressor not working with an extension cord, you can better troubleshoot the problem and take the necessary steps to fix it.

How To Troubleshoot The Air Compressor Problem

If you are experiencing problems with your air compressor not working with an extension cord, there are a few steps you can take to troubleshoot the issue:

1. Check the length and gauge of the extension cord: As mentioned in the previous section, the length and gauge of the extension cord can affect the performance of the air compressor. First, check the length of the extension cord and make sure it is not too long for the intended use. Then, check the gauge of the extension cord and ensure that it is thick enough to handle the power requirements of the air compressor. If the extension cord is not the correct length or gauge, try using a different extension cord that meets the recommended specifications.
2. Check the power rating of the extension cord: It is also important to make sure that the extension cord is rated for the power of the air compressor. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for the power rating of the extension cord and compare it to the rating of the extension cord you are using. If the extension cord is not rated for the power of the air compressor, try using a different extension cord with a higher power rating.
3. Inspect the extension cord for any visible damage: If the extension cord appears to be frayed, damaged, or has exposed wires, it may be causing the air compressor to not work properly. Carefully inspect the extension cord and replace it if necessary.
4. Try a different extension cord: If you have ruled out the other possible causes and the air compressor is still not working with the extension cord, try using a different extension cord. This will help you determine if the problem is with the extension cord or the air compressor itself.

By following these troubleshooting steps, you can identify the cause of the problem and take the necessary steps to fix it. If the problem persists or you are unable to troubleshoot the issue, it may be a good idea to consult the manufacturer or a professional for further assistance.

If you can’t get an extension cord working and you don’t want to buy a different size extension then you can also just adjust the air hose length. Although an air hose can also lose air pressure over some distance (especially if there is an air leak) you won’t have issues with power.

Tips For Using An Air Compressor With An Extension Cord

To ensure the safe and efficient use of an air compressor with an extension cord, here are some tips to follow:

• Use a heavy-duty extension cord specifically designed for power tools: It is important to use an extension cord that is capable of handling the power requirements of the air compressor. Look for an extension cord that is specifically designed for use with power tools, as these are generally thicker and more durable than standard extension cords.

• Avoid using an extension cord that is too long for the job: As mentioned earlier, the length of the extension cord can affect the performance of the air compressor. To avoid voltage drop and ensure optimal performance, use an extension cord that is the appropriate length for the job. Refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations for the recommended length of the extension cord.

• Use a circuit with a higher amperage rating if available: If the circuit you are using to power the air compressor has a lower amperage rating, it may not be able to handle the power requirements of the air compressor. If possible, use a circuit with a higher amperage rating to ensure the air compressor is working properly.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your air compressor is working properly and can be used to its full potential when connected to an extension cord. It is also a good idea to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for using an extension cord with the air compressor, as well as all safety guidelines and precautions.

Pros & Cons Of Using An Air Compressor Extension

Before you decide on using an extension cord with your air compressor you should consider some of the pros and cons. Of course, seeing them is a bit easier in a table format so I created one to make it a bit easier.

What Gauge Extension Cord Do You Need For An Air Compressor?

So, you’re looking to power up your air compressor, eh? Well, let me tell you, you don’t want to skimp on the extension cord. Trust me, I’ve seen what happens when you try to use the wrong gauge cord and let me tell you, it’s not pretty.

First off, what the heck is gauge? Well, gauge refers to the thickness of the wire inside the cord. The thicker the wire, the lower the gauge number. So, a 12-gauge wire is thicker than a 14-gauge wire. And, for air compressors, you’re going to want to use a cord with a gauge of 12 or lower.

Now, why do you need a thick wire, you ask? Well, it all comes down to the power your air compressor needs to do its job. Air compressors can be power-hungry beasts, and if you don’t give them enough juice, they’ll just sit there like a sad, deflated balloon.

Here’s a little story to illustrate my point. I once had a friend who tried to use a 14-gauge cord with his air compressor, and let’s just say, it didn’t end well. The cord wasn’t thick enough to handle the power, and as a result, the cord got hot and melted.

My friend’s garage smelled like burnt rubber for weeks.

So, what gauge extension cord should you use for your air compressor? Well, it depends on the length of the cord and the power of your air compressor. If you’re using a cord that’s 50 feet or less, then a 12-gauge cord should do the trick. But, if you’re using a longer cord, say 100 feet, then you’ll want to use a 10-gauge cord to ensure that your air compressor has enough power.

Now, you might be thinking, “But, wait! What about those heavy-duty extension cords with multiple outlets? Can’t I just use one of those?” Well, my friend, it’s not that simple. Those cords are designed to handle multiple devices, not just air compressors. So, while they might work in a pinch, they’re not ideal for powering your air compressor.

In conclusion, don’t be like my friend and use the wrong gauge extension cord for your air compressor. It’s a recipe for disaster. Make sure you use a cord with a gauge of 12 or lower if your cord is 50 feet or less, and a 10-gauge cord if it’s 100 feet or more. Your air compressor will thank you, and your garage will smell like fresh sawdust instead of burnt rubber.

Should You Use A Longer Air Hose Instead Of An Extension Cord?

As a DIY enthusiast, I have a love-hate relationship with air hoses and extension cords. I love the convenience of having power and air at my fingertips, but I hate the tangles and knots that seem to magically appear every time I need to use them.

When it comes to air hoses, I have always been a fan of the longer ones. I mean, who wouldn’t want more reach and flexibility? But, as I’ve learned over the years, longer doesn’t always mean better.

Take the time I was working on my car in the garage. I had a 50-foot air hose and thought, “Awesome, I can reach every corner of the garage with this bad boy.” But, as I soon discovered, the longer the hose, the more weight it has, making it harder to maneuver.

And, as I found out the hard way, the longer the hose, the easier it is to get tangled up and trip over.

On the other hand, extension cords can be just as frustrating.

So, what’s a DIY enthusiast to do? Well, let me tell you, I’ve come to the conclusion that using a longer air hose instead of an extension cord is not always the best option.

Air hoses are not as flexible as extension cords and can be more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces. As you get further away from the compressor the air pressure you can use will go down as well.

On the other hand, extension cords are made for electrical power and are much more flexible. They can easily be wrapped up and stored when not in use, making them a more convenient option for DIY projects.

If you have to go a few hundred feet you are likely going to be better off getting a longer air hose than using an extension cord that is a few hundred feet long. However, since extension cords will be considerably cheaper than a long air hose (or many air hoses depending on the length you are trying to pump the air) it is likely a better idea to get a heavy-duty extension cord than to buy a bunch of expensive air hoses.

In the end, it’s all about finding the right balance of length, convenience, and price. So, go ahead and experiment with different lengths and see what works best for you. Just remember, safety first!

Final Thoughts

Using an extension cord with an air compressor can be a convenient way to power the air compressor in areas that are not near an outlet or to extend its reach to a wider range of locations. However, it is important to consider the potential pros and cons of using an extension cord, as well as to follow proper safety guidelines and precautions.

To ensure the safe and efficient use of an air compressor with an extension cord, it is important to use a heavy-duty extension cord specifically designed for power tools, avoid using an extension cord that is too long for the job, and use a circuit with a higher amperage rating if available.

If you encounter problems with your air compressor not working with an extension cord, you can troubleshoot the issue by checking the length and gauge of the extension cord, checking the power rating, inspecting the extension cord for any visible damage, and trying a different extension cord.

By understanding the possible causes of an air compressor not working with an extension cord and following the troubleshooting steps and tips outlined in this article, you can help ensure that your air compressor is working properly and can be used to its full potential.