Extension Cord Wheel

Hello,@dan

I was wondering if I could plug my Glowforge Pro into an extension cord wheel that has outlets?

If so, which one(s) would you recommend?

I need to move it to an area that does not have a wall outlet.

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They’re not going to recommend a specific cord, and they actively (in the instructions) recommend against a surge protector, but many folks have been using both with no issues.

If you visit

and download your manual it’ll list the recommended amps (for example my performance says 15amps) so a heavy duty one (14AWG in the US) is probably a good idea!

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Would you think combination of this products work together and with glowforge pro?

Amazon.com: Extension Cord Storage Reel with 4-Grounded Outlets & 2 USB Ports, Heavy Duty Open Cord Reel for 12/3,14/3,16/3 Gauge Power Cord, Hand Wind Retractable, 15A Circuit Breaker, ETL Listed, Yellow : Electronics

Amazon.com: 25 FT 14/3 Extension Cord Outdoor, Heavy Duty Weatherproof & Flame Retardant Black 3 Prong Power Cord with Light, Outside for Lawn & Garden, 15 Amps 1875 Watts 125 VAC 14AWG SJTW, ETL Listed : Tools & Home Improvement

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Glowforge officially recommends plugging your machine directly into a properly grounded wall outlet. The company advises against using power strips, surge protectors, or extension cords because these can introduce electrical risks or interfere with the machine’s internal power management.

That being said, have people used power strips, surge, protectors, and/or extension cords? Of course they have.

Would I do so? Not a chance. If I had to move mine to an area without power, I’d use a single “appliance extension cord” that’s made with 12 AWG instead of the usual 14 AWG wire. A long run of 14 gauge wire is more susceptible to voltage drops and heating effects than the larger 12 gauge version. Considering the replacement cost of a new Glowforge, I wouldn’t risk it.

In a pinch, I’d go with something like this Amazon 25-foot 12/3 cord for $19:

https://a.co/d/07zKW7WD

YMMV, of course! :wink:

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The cord is fine, but if you need multiple outlets I’d suggest something like this (I haven’t used this particular one). Then if you want to add a surge protector to the other outlet you can.

https://a.co/d/03TMDlbY

The reason why they don’t suggest you use one is that there’s already one inside and doubling those up does not increase their reliability.

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Thank you, both of you. I will look into your suggestions.

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True. It decreases the reliability of the GF internal protector, making it more susceptible to interruptions (according to GF).

I like the 3-headed extension cord – it would be fine.

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Thank you :slight_smile:

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