We all have electronics in our homes. And they all come with large cables. However, when they tangle around, it looks messier. Therefore, you would want something to get rid of this situation. Hence, we’ve come with a solution. Our guide on making a retractable cord reel will help you build a tool to organize the cables.
What is a Retractable Cord Reel
A retractable cord reel is a tool to spiral the unused part of a long cable. Besides, only the portion of the cord that is used will be exposed. The rest of the cable will be coiled. However, it can either be automatic or done manually.
Nonetheless, a retractable cord reel has numerous benefits. When a lot of cables are lying around, there’s a high chance of tangling. And nobody wants that to happen as it is troublesome to untangle them when you need to move. Therefore, a retractable cord reel can help you to prevent such situations.
Moreover, it will prevent you from stepping upon them and fall while you are nimble. Besides, it also looks better and organized with a cord reel.
Materials You Need to Make a Retractable Cord Reel
Before you start making a retractable cord reel, ensure that you have the following materials ready:
- A piece of curved PVC pipe.
- Two pieces of wood or hardboard.
- A hammer.
- Few Screws.
- A screwdriver.
- A small jigsaw.
- A knob.
- A hook.
- Hot Glue.
Once you have these things ready, you can start creating a retractable cord reel.
Step by Step Guide on How to Make a Retractable Cord Reel
Making a retractable cord reel is quite an easy job if you know how to do it. We’ve provided you a step-by-step guide. So that you don’t get confused with the sequence. Nonetheless, continue reading and follow the steps below carefully to make a retractable cord reel:
Step 1: Cut the Wood/Hardboard
First, take the jigsaw and the wood/hardboard. Then cut both of the boards in a circular shape. Ensure that they both are equal in size. After cutting them, also smoothen the edges. That’s because you may get hurt while using them if they’re not smooth.
Step 2: Attach Hook & Make Hole
Then attach the hook to one side of the PVC pipe. Also, make a small hole to insert the cable. You’ll need to put the wire through the hole, so create it in size so that you can insert the wire through it.
Step 3: Attach with the Boards
Once the pipe is ready, attach it with the boards. Place it in between the boards. However, ensure that each side of the pipe is attached exactly at the center of the boards. Now, use hot glue to attach them well. Nonetheless, you may need to wait for a little bit to let the glue cool down and attach well.
Step 4: Set the knob
Now set the knob on one of the boards. And the knob should be on the outer side. Again use hot glue to attach properly. We’re almost done creating the wheel.
Step 5: Mount the Pipe
Next, mount an extra pipe in the wall or floor. However, ensure that it’s larger than the wheel’s pipe and not wider. Fix it strongly so that it doesn’t come out.
Step 6: Attach Wheel
Now attach the wheel with the pipe you just mounted. However, you’ll find the mounted pipe a little bit lengthier. This is to prevent the wheel from coming out. Hence, after inserting the wheel, lock it with the help of a cap or screw.
Step 7: Set the Wire
After you’ve done the setup perfectly, time to attach the cable now; get a cable and put it through the hole you made earlier on the pipe. Then attach it with the hook. After that circle, the wheel, and you’ve done it.
FAQ
How do you Roll an Extension Cord on a Reel?
Answer: First, attach the extension cord with the hook of the reel. You’ll find a hole there; put the wire through it to attach it with the hook. Then rotate the wheel using the knob gradually. It will roll the extension cord on the reel.
How does a Retractable Cord Reel Work?
Answer: A retractable cord reel uses a ratcheting mechanism. It makes the cord go spiral to avoid tangling. However, the cord reel puts extra pressure on the cable to get out and go to the previous position.
How do you Roll up an Extension Cord without Tangling?
Answer: Extension cords are always messy. However, rolling them can be a good solution to get rid of a messier environment. But most people end up tangling them more when trying to roll. Therefore, first, untangle them and put them straight on the floor. After that, start rolling from one side. In this way, you can avoid tangling the extension cord.
Is it Safe to Use a Retractable Cord Reel?
Yes, it is completely safe to use a retractable cord reel. However, if you have a high-power cable, then you may want to be careful a bit. That’s because their high energy causes heat. Therefore, after powering them on, if you touch the wire, you feel the heat.
Conclusion
This guide on how to make a retractable cord reel is written with easy steps. Therefore, you should not face any problem regarding the making process. However, the benefit of having a cord reel is huge. Therefore, if you want to have a good-looking environment around your electronics, try this now.