Go thick and short for high-amperage tools.

For a pressure washer or any tool pulling 15 amps, you want a 12-gauge or thicker cord under 100 feet.

The longer and thinner the cord, the more voltage drops. Your tool will struggle, overheat, or trip breakers. A 14-gauge cord might work for a leaf blower but not for a pressure washer that’s running a motor and pump at full load.

Check your tool’s amp rating. Most standard outlet tools are 15 amps. For that, a 12-gauge cord is safe up to 100 feet. For 100+ feet, step up to 10-gauge. Don’t guess—look for the AWG number on the cord jacket. Lower number = thicker wire.

Also, avoid “light duty” or “indoor” cords. You want a cord rated for outdoor use (marked “W” or “WA”). The insulation is heavier and won’t crack in sun or cold.

Don’t risk burning out your tool or starting a fire to save twenty bucks.