Discussions

it depends on a few factors.  
What gage is the cord, what is the length of the cord and how much power is going threw the cord.  
 
Does the cord get warm to the touch after everything has been on for a bit?  
 
most homes are wired with 14 gage wiring and 15 amp breaker, a lot of newer homes have 12 gage wiring and 20 amp breakers. with this your cords should be at least equal to the house wiring otherwise there is a risk of a cord heating and trouble, also the cords should be kept as short as practical.

The things you describe will be fine with an extension cord, even a 16 gauge one. Good advice to keep the cord as short as required. The only concern really would be periodically checking the cords for damage. Check for things like pinching under heavy o:bjects, severe kinks, and fraying. If you have pets (or mice), make sure the cords aren't chewed. Make sure all the plugs stay securely plugged in as well, with none of the metal blades visible.

Hi Howard, call Bryce @ 717-9090. He owns Ark Electrix and solar, and will give you honest advice. I do know it's a problem though

Isn't so much the gauge of the cord but the connection. The cord end becomes loose over time and can cause arcing which can cause a fire. According to CEC even 14 gauge wire can handle 20 amps

I am in and out of houses daily. It is SCARY at the least to see the amount of CHEAP extension cords used. I am talking the cheap 2 conductor cords . I hate to say it but I cannot believe that there are not more house fires due to cheap cords.  
 
Yes cords are to be a SHORT term solution. IF you are to need one, spend the money and buy the proper cords. Heavy duty 3 conductor cords. They them selves are not perfect. Those molded ends tend to fail. How often have you seen one where it has been getting hot and starting to melt? I prefer to buy the appropriate gauge cabtyre, proper ends and make my own. You can make them to the length you need. Yes, it is not cheap like a pre-made cord but I feel it is a better solution. Same thing as a cord for outside in the winter. Buy the proper cord. An outdoor cord. That is why I like buying the cabtyre and making my own. The outer coating is rubber, not plastic.  
 
Again JMO.

Thanks Huey (friend). As stated it's a connection issue as well as the insulation rating (which is why they melt). Shooter is right that cabtyre is rated for extra-hard usage and the most reliable cord out there, but expensive. It's probably cheaper in the end just to install a receptacle where you need it. Unless your house is newer or has been upgraded, you still won't have AFCI protection on the receptacle and a fire from arcing is possible. Even likely depending. I had to replace a customer's receptacle just a couple of weeks ago due to arcing, it had melted a large hole right through the back. I replaced the rec and installed an AFCI breaker to make it safe for the kids. Please be safe and remedy this situation for your own well-being, I've seen the end-result from a house fire due to electrical and it's heart wrenching to witness the loss of life/aftermath.

Hello.AS I was saying in my original post,I have been using the extension cords plugged in continuously for 20-25 years or more with no problems.The cords never get hot or even warm.The items in the living room(tv,vcr,dvd player)are not used a lot.The only thing on is the vcr clock.The items in the bedroom(lamp,portable stereo.clock)are not used very often.The only thing on all the time is the clock.It seems to me these things do not draw much power.The cords are both in good condition.What about using a power bar in the living room?Using one in the bedroom is not an option.The plug in is too far away.

Hi Howard, I sent you a private message to discuss your particulars

I didn't get the email.Don't know what happened.I appreciate getting your advice.Thank You!!!

Hi Howard, call me at 204-717-9090