How to Use a 110 Extension Cord for a 220

You can easily convert an extension cord from 110 volts to 220 volts. The wires inside any medium- to heavy-duty extension cord are insulated to handle voltages up to 600 volts. As long as you don't exceed the ampacity of the wires by forcing them to carry too much current, the extension cord modification is safe and easy to do. Make sure you purchase plugs and receptacles that fit your equipment and existing 220-volt outlet.

Modify 110-volt extension cords for use with 220-volt equipment.

Step 1

Cut off both ends of the extension cord with the wire cutter. Disassemble the 250-volt plug by removing the two screws that hold it together. Determine how much sheathing on the extension cord to remove and cut it off with the wire stripper. Only remove as much sheathing as necessary. The sheathing should fit into the plug's strain relief and end just before the wires attach to the terminals.

Step 2

Strip 5/8 inches of insulation from the ends of all three wires and gently twist the strands on each wire. Loosen the three terminals with a screwdriver. Insert the stripped wire ends into the plug through the strain relief.

Step 3

Wrap the green ground wire around the ground terminal clockwise. Tighten the ground terminal firmly. Ensure no loose strands of wire are free to move around inside the plug.

Step 4

Wrap the remaining two wires clockwise around the two terminals. The order does not matter. Tighten the terminal screws firmly.

Step 5

Reassemble the plug with the two screws. Tighten the strain relief to securely hold the cord in place, but not so tight that it crushes the cord. Repeat all these steps at the opposite end of the cord with the receptacle.