For many woodworkers, extension cords sometimes make the shop floor look like a plate of pasta. Mounting power-cord reels keeps an extension cord neatly coiled on a spring-loaded winder until it’s needed. Woodhead’s new PowerHouse retractable outlet, designed specifically for residential applications, can be mounted on a wall or sunk flush into the wall, secured directly to the studs. The unit I tested has a 25-ft., 14-ga. grounded cord rated for motors that draw up to 15 amps. A built-in circuit-breaker adds overload protection. The reel is contained in a sturdy 14-in.-square by 3-1/2-in.-deep sheet-steel frame that mounts to a wall with four screws. A 38-in.-long cord plugs directly into a nearby electrical outlet to provide power for the unit. When pulled out, the cord locked in place, and a tug on the cord started the rewind, although sluggishly.  The PowerHouse is available at The Home Depot. 

—Tom Begnal is an associate editor

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

Bessey EKH Trigger Clamps

Bessey EKH series quick-release trigger-style clamps are simple to use and maintain consistent pressure. Trigger clamps that perform the way you've always wished they would!

Buy at Amazon

Veritas Wheel Marking Gauge

A wheel-type gauge is the easiest to use, and this wonderful Veritas model is a steal at $38.

Buy at Lee Valley

Estwing Dead-Blow Mallet

A quality dead-blow mallet that packs and punch but isn't too heavy for furniture work.

Buy at Amazon