Use Flat Cords Under Rugs Without Risk

Tripping over messy cables or seeing unsightly cords peeking out from under your beautiful rug can be annoying. But is running extension cords under your rugs really safe? With the right precautions, flat cords can discretely bring power anywhere in a room without posing a hazard.

When Flat Cords Under Rugs Make Sense

There are a few situations where using a flat extension cord under a rug can be preferable to exposed cables:

• To avoid potential tripping hazards from loose cords across the floor
• For a clean, seamless interior design look by hiding cords
• When wall outlets are not conveniently located near devices
• As a temporary power solution before installing new outlets

Flat cords under rugs can provide a quick fix for bringing power anywhere without disrupting your room's aesthetics. But special safety steps should still be taken.

Potential Dangers of Hiding Cords

While convenient, tucking cords out of sight under rugs also introduces some risks:

• Excessive heat buildup from lack of air circulation, which can lead to fire
• Damage to cords from being stepped on repeatedly
• Out of sight cords still pose tripping hazards from lumps or bulges
• Inability to inspect condition of hidden cords for damage

Safely running cords under rugs requires selecting the right cords and taking steps to minimize these dangers.

Choosing the Right Flat Extension Cord

Not all extension cords are equal when it comes to hiding them seamlessly under rugs.

Look for cords that are UL-listed and made with quality materials but also meet key criteria like:

• Flat design to lay snugly against the floor
• Proper length to avoid excessive coiling under rug
• Sufficient wire gauge rating for expected power needs
• Durable outer jacket that resists abrasion

Avoid cheaply made flat cords with thin or brittle jacketing that could easily crack when stepped on repeatedly. Invest in a good quality flat cord rated for indoor use that can withstand some foot traffic.

Safety Tips for Routing Flat Cords Under Rugs

Carefully planning where and how flat extension cords are placed under area rugs is key for safety:

• Clean bare floor surface before positioning cord to prevent debris damage
• Lay cord tight and flat against baseboards or walls
• Avoid high foot traffic areas when possible
• Use shortest path from outlet to device to limit excess cord
• Consider plastic cord covers for extra protection

Proper cord routing reduces risks like trips, overheating, and cord deterioration over time. Take your time to neatly position the flat cord before placing furniture or rugs over it.

Periodically Inspecting Hidden Cords

Out of sight can lead to out of mind. But periodically checking on hidden flat cords is essential:

• Inspect for damage after moving furniture rested on cord
• Replace aging or worn looking cords for safety
• Monitor cord temperature for hot spots after use
• Re-route cord if excessive wear or loosening occurs

Well-made flat cords can last for years under rugs with careful use. But periodically examine, move, and replace any deteriorating cords.

When to Call an Electrician

While flat cords adequately meet many temporary needs, there are times to call a professional electrician instead:

• If your power capacity needs exceed extension cord ratings
• For installing new grounded wall outlets closer to devices
• To evaluate your home's overall electrical safety

Upgrading electrical service or adding new outlets provides a safer permanent power solution. An electrician can assess if your extension cord use indicates underserved demand.

With proper precautions, flat extension cords can neatly and safely provide power under area rugs without conspicuous tripping hazards. Carefully selecting durable flat cords plus following key routing and inspection tips helps minimize risks like cord damage or overheating.

But permanently installed wall outlets are the safest long-term power solution. For heavy-duty appliances or overall home electrical upgrades, contact a qualified electrician to eliminate extension cord dependence.