Electrical question: Running a motor with extension cord

I think it's time to upgrade and get a 200 amp service. You're already loaded up heavier than a 100 amp service should be.
 
I probably should have mentioned earlier, when I did occasionally use an extension, it was off a dedicated 20 amp circuit with only 1 outlet on the circuit. Mine was a 200 amp panel with only about 5' of 12/3 running from the breaker to the outlet being used. I didn't have any issues with a 100' 12/3 extension on that motor, but as others have mentioned, you may not want to risk it considering your service panel situation.
 
K. Wilson said:
Taking the average load of a stove (50amps), dryer (30 amps), and air conditioner (10 amps) I'm already almost up to that 100amps you said to subtract from. And that isn't including our well pump, water heater or anything else. Am I doing that right? If so it seems like I'm already over that.
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Load calculation is more involved than adding up the breaker ratings or load amps. Post a picture of your electric panel.
 
If you have an electric stove and dryer, I would be surprised if you did not have 240 (or 220, or 208) volts available. That said you might be maxed out on the panel in terms of demand. If you can convince the wife not to bake or do laundry while you grind, things could work out. But seriously, you need a good electrician to look at your system and give you some advice. Electrical advice from the internet is maybe worth what you are paying for it. FWIW though, I stand by my 10 ga extension cord recommendation for a 17 amp load at 120 volts. The cheapest 10 ga. cord on Amazon is only $50 more than the cheapest 12 ga cord. What's a new motor cost? If you can run your grinder on 240 volt power though, then you can buy the 12 ga cord.
 
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