How to Rewire a Desk Lamp

You may have a favorite desk lamp you really like, but it doesn't work anymore. Before you decide to chuck it into the trash, consider rewiring first. A rewiring job may be all it needs. Read on to learn more.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Rewire repair kit
• Wire strippers
• Electrical tape

1. Set up your work space. Find an empty table to set the desk lamp on for repair. Gather all needed supplies.

2. Take the desk lamp apart after making sure it's unplugged. Remove the wiring and throw it away.

3. Take your rewiring repair kit, and strip the ends of the wire. Twist the stripped ends in a clockwise motion. Attach the new wires to the socket by securing the terminal screws on the socket unit.

4. Thread the wires of the repair kit through the middle tube of the desk lamp. Secure the socket unit to the top of the middle tube.

5. Thread the wires of the repair kit through the base of your desk lamp.

6. Attach the wires to the electrical cord. Twist the wires together and place some electrical tape around the wires to make sure they're securely attached together.

7. Plug in the lamp to make sure it works. If it works properly, place the desk lamp shade on top. Some desk lamps require you to place the shade over the socket before threading the wiring through the middle tube. Check the directions of your rewiring kit before attempting this project to be sure it's done correctly.

8. Reattach the rest of the lamp.

Tips & Warnings

• If your desk lamp uses a halogen bulb, then only touch the edges of the bulb. Touching the bulb on the glass will ruin it.