running APC Back-UPS Pro 1000 off an extension cord

[Anonymous user]

I just received my UPS and am reading the installation guide, which explicitly states:

Connect the UPS power cable directly to a wall outlet. Do not use surge protectors or extension cords.

Problem is, the only wall outlet available is about 8' high, and the APC's power cord won't reach it.

I have a long extension cord (>20') rated at 1650W/13A with three outlets on it, no surge protector. Originally, the plan was to connect the UPS to that, and have my two lamps (60W each) of the other two sockets. If necessary, I could use the extension cord exclusively for the UPS and connect the lamps to one of its outputs, but I'm not enthusiastic about it.

Reason I got the UPS in the first place was noise on the power lines that crept into my audio chain, so clean power was a bigger consideration than battery backup. I suspect the noise may be caused by the lamps, which is why I'd like to keep them separate.

But the main question is, how would connecting the UPS to the extension cord affect its operation? I don't quite understand that.

Thanks.

[Anonymous user]

I suspect the primary concerns are the possible lack of a ground connection or use of an extension cord that is completely inappropriate for the kind of load that might be attached to the UPS. I'd not put it past someone to use a two pin light duty extension cord with grounding adapters to let them plug the UPS in. It would be very easy to overload that combination.

For the surge suppression to work as designed, it must have an unbroken connection to ground.

So long as you use an appropriate extension cord (one designed for use with heavy appliances, like a refrigerator) that carries a ground connection, I don't think you'd have any trouble. The wiring should be at least fourteen gauge in size.

(My commentary doesn't take into account APC's equipment protection/replacement plan, which may stipulate a direct connection to a properly wired wall outlet for the coverage to remain in effect. And while I view it as only peripherally relevant in this situation, it's generally best if the path that a surge would take to ground is kept as short as possible.)

[Anonymous user · Accepted solution]

Thanks, William. I do suspect it is more of a liability issue than a technical one, but always good to make sure.

I think the extension cord is up to the job, but I do wonder whether or not I could feed the two lamps from the same extension cord? Perhaps better not, but I would prefer to keep them off post-UPS power, so as to keep things nice and clean and quiet.