You must get a high quality extension cord for microwave to use it safely. A 12-gauge or 14-gauge extension cord is ideal for a standard microwave oven for residential use. I will share top 5 extension cords for a microwave with pros and cons of each cord.
A standard microwave comes with a power cord that connects it to the electricity supply line. When the cord is short, you need an extension cord for microwave to use it for cooking food. You must find a safe extension cord for microwave that can transmit enough electricity and save your microwave from damages caused by power fluctuation.
Can You Plug a Microwave into an Extension Cord?
Yes, you can plug a microwave into an extension cord to make it reach a power outlet. But you must be careful when buying an extension cord for your microwave because it is a kitchen appliance with high power consumption.
A regular extension cord for a lamp or printer is not safe to use with a microwave. Such a low-gauge (thin) extension cord may get overheated if used for a microwave. You must check your microwave wattage & ampere (amps) and choose a heavy duty extension cord for your microwave.
Some microwave brands recommend not to use an extension cord with a microwave for safety purposes. On the other hands, some brands allows to use a high-gauge (thick) extension cord that is capable to supply enough amount of electrical current to the microwave without any issue.
Top 5 Extension Cords for a Microwave
Buying an extension cord for a microwave is more challenging than buying a microwave. Because a wrong extension cord can damage the microwave and can cause an unexpected disaster in your kitchen. Therefore you must find a heavy duty extension cord for a microwave that can offer added safety.
After doing a long research and practical testing, I have found top 5 extension cords for a microwave that are worth buying in 2023. Based on testing results and my personal experience, here I provide best microwave extension cord reviews as follows.
#1. FIRMERST 14-Gauge Plug Extension Cord
Specification:
| Cord Length | 6-Feet |
| Gauge (AWG) | 14-Gauge |
| Watt Capacity | 1875W |
| Amps Capacity | 15A |
| Volts Capacity | 125V |
| Customer Ratings | 5-Star: 83% |
FIRMERST 14-Gauge Plug Extension Cord is a heavy duty extension cord designed for large appliances. It is a UL listed cord that is tested with various home & kitchen appliances before putting it on sale. It is available with 6-feet length in white and black color options.
It is made from high grade material with 3-prong plug and copper wire. It offers high capacity of 1875-watts, 15-amps and 125-volts to be compatible with large appliances like a microwave, freezer, vacuum cleaner and washing machine.
This high capacity microwave extension cord is soft, flexible and easy to fold. Its thick diameter reduces the chances of getting hot or melting when used with heavy appliances. On outer surface, this power cord can handle up to 165°F high temperature.
What Is Good:
- 14-AWG UL Listed High Quality Extension Cord
- Offer Black and White Color Options
- Ideal for a Microwave, Freezer and Large Appliances
- Thick Cord with Up to 165°F temperature resistance
- 6-Ft Length to Plug Your Microwave into a Far Power Outlet
What is Bad:
- 6-Feet Length Only, No Other Size Options
My Experience:
I have used several extension cords from FIRMERST in last five years. All the cords are still working well with zero issues. This 6-feet microwave extension cord is flexible enough to fold for adjusting in tight spaces. I use it for my 1200W microwave and it does not get hot even after one hour of continuous cooking.
The male and female plugs are sturdy and well designed. This extension cord is made for indoor use only, so I have not used it outdoor. I own one more cord of FIRMERST (same model) that I have attached with my washing machine and this cord impressed me again.
#2. POWTECH 14-Gauge Power Extension Cord
Specification:
| Cord Length | 3-Feet, 6-Feet, 12-Feet, 15-Feet, 20-Feet and 25-Feet |
| Gauge (AWG) | 14-Gauge |
| Watt Capacity | 1875W |
| Amps Capacity | 15A |
| Volts Capacity | 125V |
| Customer Ratings | 5-Star: 85% |
POWTECH 14-Gauge Power Extension Cord is another heavy duty cord for a microwave and other large appliances. It is available in various sizes of 3-feet, 6-feet, 12-feet, 15-feet, 20-feet and 25-feet. So, you can choose the extension cord length as per your requirement.
This POWTECH cord is made of solid copper wires with sturdy vinyl cover to protect from moisture. It is UL listed, so it meets all required safety standards for indoor use in homes and offices. It offers 1875-watt capacity, 15-amp capacity and 125-volt capacity to be suitable for a standard microwave oven in United States.
It comes with a straight female plug to easily connect to the microwave cord. The male plug is angled to keep the cord in level with the wall when plugged in an outlet. It works perfectly with a microwave, air conditioner (AC), computer, printer, fax machine, washing machine and other appliances.
What Is Good:
- Angled Male Plug Keep the Cord in Level with the Wall
- Various Sizes from 3-Ft to 25-Ft to Meet Your Need
- Safe, Sturdy and Durable Extension Cord for Indoor Use
- Vinyl Cover Protect from Moisture and Sunlight
- Work Well with a Microwave, AC and Other Appliances
What is Bad:
- More Expensive than FIRMERST Extension Cord
My Experience:
I wanted a good quality extension cord for my AC in 2018 and I bought this POWTECH extension cord. I used it for my 8000 BTU window AC and it worked perfectly. After two years, I bought this extension cord for my microwave and it worked with that too.
Its size options from 3-feet to 25-feet helped me to let my 1100W microwave reach to a far outlet. It seems a bit more expensive than other brands but it is worth every penny you spend on it. The cord does not get overheated or melted, it still appears and works like new.
#3. Tripp Lite 14-Gauge Power Extension Cord
Specification:
| Cord Length | 3-Feet, 6-Feet, 10-Feet, 15-Feet and 25-Feet |
| Gauge (AWG) | 14-Gauge |
| Watt Capacity | 1875W |
| Amps Capacity | 15A |
| Volts Capacity | 125V |
| Customer Ratings | 5-Star: 86% |
Tripp Lite 14-Gauge Power Extension Cord is a high grade cord with NEMA 5 connectors. The wires of made of sturdy copper and the covering is made of PVC. The cord is flexible and easy to fold to fit in tight spaces and stay in level with the wall.
The manufacturer understands that everyone needs an extension cord for a microwave in a different size. Therefore it has made this cord with 3-feet, 6-feet, 10-feet, 15-feet and 25-feet sizes. You can measure the distance between your microwave and power outlet to find the right size extension cord for your need.
This UL listed 14-gauge extension cord is designed to use with large appliances like a microwave, washing machine, PDU, laser printer, vacuum cleaner and others. It offers high capacity of 1875-watts, 15-amps and 125-volts, it is suitable for all standard microwave ovens.
What Is Good:
- Sturdy, Flexible and Durable Extension Cord
- Work Perfectly with All Home & Kitchen Appliances
- 3-Ft to 25-Ft Size Options to Fulfill Everyone’s Needs
- UL Listed, Compliance with Strict RoHS Specifications
- Limited Lifetime Warranty from the Manufacturer
What is Bad:
- It is available in Black Color Only
My Experience:
With sturdy construction and superior quality, this microwave extension cord is worth your investment. I bought this Tripp Lite 14-AWG extension cord for my mom as she wanted a 15-feet long cord for her microwave. She uses a 950W microwave to cook for herself and my dad.
I helped my mom install this extension cord in her kitchen. It has been one year and 5 months yet everything is working fine. The microwave and the extension cord are as good as new, while my mom is extremely happy with it. I did not find any problem in this cord, so you can go for it without any doubt.
#4. Go Green Power 14-Gauge Extension Cord
Specification:
| Cord Length | 3-Feet, 6-Feet, 9-Feet, 12-Feet, 15-Feet and 20-Feet |
| Gauge (AWG) | 14-Gauge |
| Watt Capacity | 1875W |
| Amps Capacity | 15A |
| Volts Capacity | 125V |
| Customer Ratings | 5-Star: 82% |
Go Green Power 14-Gauge Extension Cord is a heavy duty cord with copper wires and vinyl covering. It comes with a 3-prong plug and a single outlet female to plug in your microwave cord. It works with most appliances including a microwave, convection oven, freezer, AC, refrigerator, heater and washing machine.
It is available in beige color in various sizes from 3-feet to 20-feet. You can choose the cord size as long as you want to extend your microwave cord to make it reach the wall outlet. The cord is flexible and kink-free so that it folds and fits easily in tight spaces without getting damaged.
The Go Green Power has made this microwave extension cord for indoor use only. It has the power supply capacity of 1875-watts, 15-amps and 125-volts. It is either UL listed or ETL listed, so it is tested properly to check safety of end users to verify that it is safe for home use.
What Is Good:
- Heavy Duty Extension Cord for Microwave and Large Appliances
- Kink-Free, Flexible Cord Fit Anywhere Easily
- UL or ETL Listed to Confirm Safety for Home Use
- 3-Ft to 20-Ft Different Sizes Meet Different People’s Needs
- Vinyl Cover Protect Copper Wires from Weather Effects
- Lower Price than Other Brand 14-Gauge Extension Cords
What is Bad:
- Not Available in the Size Longer than 20-Feet
My Experience:
I have used this 14-AWG microwave extension cord in my farmhouse. I bought it in June 2021 to extend my 1200W microwave cord to reach a 12-feet away wall outlet. I checked the cord to know its build quality and sturdiness, it is really a heavy duty cord.
The cord I received was labeled as ETL listed and offered up to 1875W capacity with 15A & 125V limit. I have been using my microwave with this extension cord for almost 2 years without any issue. The cord does not get hot and I have never seen a single spark in the cord or my microwave. So, it is safe to use for a microwave.
#5. Watt’s Wire 12-Gauge Power Extension Cord
Specification:
| Cord Length | 1-Foot, 6-Feet, 10-Feet, 15-Feet, 25-Feet, 50-Feet and 100-Feet |
| Gauge (AWG) | 12-Gauge |
| Watt Capacity | 1875W |
| Amps Capacity | 15A |
| Volts Capacity | 125V |
| Customer Ratings | 5-Star: 88% |
Watt’s Wire 12-Gauge Power Extension Cord is a fire resistant extension cord for a microwave and other appliances. It comes in yellow color to provide clear visibility in your kitchen. You can buy this best microwave extension cord in minimum 1-foot size and maximum 100-feet size as required for your microwave.
It offers power capacity of 1875-watts, 120-volts and 15-amps. It is made as per OSHA and UL 817 guidelines to provide safety with durability. This moisture resistant and corrosion-proof extension cord is suitable for a microwave, washing machine, space heater, power tool and refrigerator.
The Watt’s Wire extension cord is sturdier than other brand cords. It is designed for indoor and outdoor use, it can withstand all weather conditions. You can put heavy weight (any gadget) on this cord, it can hold up to 150 lbs weight without getting damaged.
What Is Good:
- Designed for Both the Indoor and Outdoor Use
- Fire Resistant, Moisture Resistant and Corrosion-Proof
- 1-Ft to 100-Ft Size Options to Meet Different People’s Needs
- Built-in Strain Relief and Unbreakable 12-Gauge Cord
- Bright Yellow Color Offer Clear Visibility
- Thicker and Sturdier Compared to Other Extension Cords
What is Bad:
- Much More Expensive than Other Extension Cords
My Experience:
I have used many different extension cords with my microwave, washing machine and other appliances. This Watt’s Wire 12-AWG Extension Cord stands different among all. It is much sturdier than most extension cords I have used in past 10 years.
I bought this fire resistant extension cord for outdoor use for my lawn mower and it worked great. Then I tried the same cord with my microwave and it showed the same performance. As per my personal experience, this microwave extension cord is expensive but its performance is outstanding and it does not have any drawbacks.
Things to Consider When Buying an Extension Cord for a Microwave
When you want to buy an extension cord for your microwave, you must know some important things about it. With proper knowledge, you can pick the right extension cord that is safe and suitable for your microwave oven. Here I provide things to consider when buying an extension cord for a microwave as follows.
Cord Gauge:
You must choose a 14-gauge or 12-gauge extension cord for a microwave because it is designed for large appliances. The 16-gauge and 18-gauge extension cords are thin and have low amps capacity, while a microwave uses more wattage and ampere. Therefore you must check the gauge and choose either a 12-gauge or 14-gauge cord for your microwave.
Power Capacity and Compatibility:
After gauge, the next important thing to check in an extension cord is its power capacity. A standard microwave extension cord comes with the maximum power capacity of 1875W, 15A and 125V. With such a high capacity, the cord is compatible for 700W to 1200W microwaves with below 15A usage.
You must check the power capacity of an extension cord before buying it. You must also check the power ratings of your microwave, it is given on its back. Make sure that the power capacity of the extension cord matches with your microwave power ratings.
Cord Length:
The extension cord is available in various lengths from 1-foot to 100-feet. You should choose the cord length as required to make your microwave cord reach the power outlet.
I strongly recommend you to get an extension cord with less than 25-feet length. Because the current supply capacity of a cord reduces when it is too long which can cause voltage dropping problems. So, it is better and safer if you can manage with an extension cord for a microwave that is shorter than 25-feet.
Plug Compatibility:
A standard microwave comes with a 3-prong plug in which the third one is the grounding prong. You must check that the extension cord also has the same 3-prong male plug for the outlet and 3-prong female plug for the microwave plug. Only then it will be compatible to use with your microwave.
Do not use a 2-prong extension cord with your microwave because it will damage your microwave.
Flexible and Unbreakable:
The extension cord must be flexible enough to fold where required during installation. You must check that the cord is easy to fold and unbreakable so that it does not break if folded or stretched or twisted a little when installing in your kitchen.
In this way, you need to consider these five things to find a suitable extension cord for your microwave.
Can You Plug a Microwave into Any Outlet?
No, you cannot plug a microwave into any outlet. A standard microwave requires a 120V outlet with 15A or 20A (amp) ratings. So, you must check the volt and ampere of an outlet to know if it matches with the requirements of your microwave.
If the power outlet does not match with the requirements of a microwave, it is not safe to plug the microwave into that outlet. It can cause overheating, fire hazard and also damage the magnetron or other internal parts of the microwave.
FAQs about Extension Cord for a Microwave
You should be careful when you want to buy an extension cord for a microwave oven. It can be dangerous if you pick a wrong cord. To help you get out of confusion, here I provide some FAQs about microwave extension cords and their answers in brief.
Q.1 What gauge extension cord is safe for a microwave?
A 14-gauge extension cord is safe for a microwave, you can also get a 12-gauge extension cord for added safety. You should avoid 16-gauge and 18-gauge extension cords as they are not safe for a microwave.
Q.2 How long is a microwave extension cord?
A microwave extension cord is available in minimum 1-foot length and maximum 100-feet length. You can select the right cord length at the time of purchase.
Q.3 Can I plug my microwave and refrigerator in one outlet?
Yes, you can plug your microwave and refrigerator in one outlet but make sure that the total amps usage of both appliances do not exceed the maximum amps limit of the outlet. If you are not sure then plug your microwave and refrigerator is separate power outlets.
Wrapping Up: Get a High Quality Extension Cord for Your Microwave
You should check the power usage in volts, watts and amps in your microwave. Then you should select an extension cord from my recommended cords above. You can also choose the cord size/length as you need to extend your microwave cord to the wall outlet in your kitchen.
I have suggested the 5 best microwave extension cords after personally using them. You may find some extension cords at a cheaper price but do not trust them blindly. Do not compromise with quality as a wrong or poor cord can damage your microwave. So, always use a UL listed or ETL listed/certified extension cord that is designed for using with a microwave.
