Powered equipment can significantly increase jobsite efficiency—if it’s getting the power it needs. Electric hoists in particular are sensitive to voltage drops, and one of the most common (and overlooked) causes of failure comes down to a simple issue: undersized extension cords. Let’s take a closer look at electric hoist extension cord requirements.
Electric hoist from LGH.
At LGH, we frequently troubleshoot electric hoist issues where the root cause isn’t the hoist at all—it’s the power supply. Whether it’s a humming motor, a hoist that lowers but won’t lift, or one that simply doesn’t engage at all, the culprit is often the wrong extension cord.
A good rule of thumb? Use the shortest and thickest gauge cord possible. Below is the chart we send with every electric rental to help customers get it right:
Extension Cord Requirements NOTICE – Minimum Wire Cord
| Extension Cord length (ft.) | Current At Full Load (Amps) | ||||||
| 12 | 14 | 16 | 18 | 20 | 22 | 24 | |
| 0′ – 25′ | 16 | 16 | 16 | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 |
| 25′ – 50′ | 14 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 10 |
| 51′ – 100′ | 10 | 10 | 10 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 |
| 101′ – 150′ | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | – | – | – |
T-500_v1 Extension Cords
If your hoist is acting up:
Check the power at the source.
Check the power at the hoist end of the cord.
Swap out the extension cord for a shorter or heavier-gauge version.
More often than not, this simple fix restores proper function—no replacement hoist needed.
Even if you’re lifting loads well below capacity, an undersized cord can cause overheating, motor strain, and hoist failure. We strongly recommend having the correct gauge cord on site before your rental arrives. It’s a small step that can save hours of downtime.
Have questions about electric hoist extension cord requirements? Call us at 800-878-7305 or reach out to your local LGH rental rep. We’re here to help keep your project moving.
LGH is North America’s largest single organization devoted exclusively to the provision of lifting and moving equipment for rent. LGH holds the most comprehensive inventory for hoisting, rigging, jacking, pulling, material handling, and safety equipment. With over 90,000 pieces, discover your next project solution at RentLGH.com.
