Extension cord question

[TNhobbyfarmer]

I have a job to do that will require a hammer drill. The only such drill I own is electric, 7.5 amp. The job is located about 130 ft. from the nearest plug. The only extension cords I have are the cheap 50 ft 14 gauge type. Couple of questions. 1) How much power will I lose using this type setup? 2) Will I potentially do damage to the drill?

 

[Diggin It]

How big of a job? How many holes? What diameter? In what .. block or poured concrete?

 

[Bigfoot62]

The old rule of thumb for voltage drop is: You go up one size for every 100'.

14 gauge is rated for 15 amps, IIRC, so 130' shouldn't reduce the current enough to hurt a 7.5 amp motor.


My only other observation is that you could use this as an excuse to get you wife to buy you a new cordless drill. I have the DeWalt 20v MAX. They're great!

 

[RalphVa]

I'd be inclined to not only rent a more hefty and longer extension cord but maybe also a more powerful hammer drill. I needed to drill holes in our concrete decking to install a safety pool cover for the winter. Tried with the little hammer drill about like the one you have on a hole or two. Took absolutely forever.

Went out and rented a big drill. Brrriittt! Hole done. Kept repeating. Must have done all the rest in way less time it took me on the 2 holes I tried with my little hammer drill.

Ralph

 

[TNhobbyfarmer]

How big of a job? How many holes? What diameter? In what .. block or poured concrete?

Small job. Four 1/2" holes in block.

 

[Bigfoot62]

Small job. Four 1/2" holes in block.

Now, Diggin' It will probably want to know what color are the blocks? :laughing:

 

[Diggin It]

I'd consider buying a cordless hammer drill from HF or Northern. I think they have some in the sub $100 range. Should knock those four holes out in less than one battery charge.

 

[PILOON]

Shucks, but 100 ft 12 g extension and be done.
Charge 1/2 the cost to the client if that makes you feel better.

 

[randy41]

Shucks, but 100 ft 12 g extension and be done.
Charge 1/2 the cost to the client if that makes you feel better.

and a 30’ bit

 

[Sawyer Rob]

Now, Diggin' It will probably want to know what color are the blocks? :laughing:

ha ha ha