Running mk3 with extension cord
Hey guys, so I'm planning on running my mk3 in a closet in my apartment (door will stay open always of course) space is an issue for me and it's where i need it to live. There's no outlet in this closet of course, and I was planning on just getting a hefty extension cord/surge protector combo. However the more I think about it the more I wonder if it's safe. Would it be OK to do this? Is there a certain rating/grade of extension cord/surge protector that I should get for this purpose? I am also planning on running a rbpi3 and led strip with this setup, for what it's worth.
Re: Running mk3 with extension cord
The printer doesn't consume that much power (about 200 Watts max I think), so it will be as safe to do as with any other device. A standard 10 amp rated extension/power board should be fine.
Re: Running mk3 with extension cord
Hi Will,
ideally the extension should be just long enough to do the job, with no spare coiled up...
coiled extensions can cause localised heating, which can cause fires...
admittedly a printer is a very light load, however things tend to get forgotten once installed, and if a cable reel is left in the bottom of a cupboard, and things get piled on top, then they may thermally insulate the cable reel and increase the heating effect... (yes I have done this, luckily no fires)
for a semi permanent set up, I like to fasten the extension lead, socket to the wall, so it doesn't get covered and route the cable to prevent trip hazard
I am just being ultra cautious
regards Joan
I try to make safe suggestions,You should understand the context and ensure you are happy that they are safe before attempting to apply my suggestions, what you do, is YOUR responsibility. Location Halifax UK
Re: Running mk3 with extension cord
Thanks everyone for the responses! The extension cord is going to be about 16 ft long in total with no excess length. Is this still safe?
Re: Running mk3 with extension cord
Should be ok Will.
Be careful that closing the door
Mind you dont squash the cable
Joan
I try to make safe suggestions,You should understand the context and ensure you are happy that they are safe before attempting to apply my suggestions, what you do, is YOUR responsibility. Location Halifax UK
Re: Running mk3 with extension cord
Thank you so much!
Re: Running mk3 with extension cord
I am running mine in a closet to with a powercord going out under the door. I close my closet to but it is pretty big for a closet about 2-2.5 m2.
If it is a problem running it in a closet it would be a disaster running it in an enclosure so I don't think there is any problem closing your closet door either. The door is most likely not air tight either.
Re: Running mk3 with extension cord
for peace of mind you could put an inexpensive maximum/minimum thermometer in there and see what happens.
perhaps like this, where you could put the remote sensor in the cupboard and view the temperature progress from outside a closed door (admittedly you would have to imagine that the cupboard was outdoors...)
some members of the group have had issues printing PLA in enclosures, due to the filament overheating.
everything is relative, so it's wise to consider your own environment rather than making assumptions
regards Joan
I try to make safe suggestions,You should understand the context and ensure you are happy that they are safe before attempting to apply my suggestions, what you do, is YOUR responsibility. Location Halifax UK