Your air conditioner needs a heavy-duty extension cord.

Yes, using a standard household extension cord with an air conditioner or other high-power appliance can be dangerous. The impact is increased fire risk. Standard cords (often 16- or 18-gauge) aren’t built to handle the continuous high current draw of an AC unit, compressor, or refrigerator. They overheat, melt, and can start a fire.

Co-axial or air conditioner extension cords are designed for this. They’re usually 14- or 12-gauge, have beefier insulation, and are rated for continuous use at higher amperage. They also tend to have a shorter, heavier-duty plug and socket that won’t loosen over time.

If you have to use an extension cord for an air conditioner (and ideally you shouldn’t—plug it directly into a wall outlet), make sure it’s the right gauge. Check your AC’s manual for the minimum amp rating, then buy a cord that matches or exceeds it. The “household” cord from the drawer will not do.

Don’t save five bucks on a cord that could start a fire.