How to Replace a Lamp Cord

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

Rate: (3 Ratings)

Replacing a lamp's electrical cord is often easier and safer than repairing it. Repaired cords are more likely to have loose connections or bad splices, which can cause fires or shocks.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

  • Putty Knife Or Screwdriver
  • Plenty Of Blades And Utility Knives

Step1
Unplug the lamp. Remove the lamp shade and unscrew the lightbulb from the socket.
Step2
Unscrew or snap the socket from the lamp, using a screwdriver if necessary, to gently pry the socket-shell base from the socket shell.
Step3
Unscrew the two wires from the socket's bottom.
Step4
Pull the wires off the screws, and then pull the cord out of the lamp from the bottom.
Step5
Push the new electrical cord into the lamp from the bottom up. Push slowly and evenly to avoid getting the wire stuck, particularly if the lamp is long.
Step6
Pull through a section of the new cord once it appears at the top of the lamp; it should be long enough to work with comfortably, a foot or two.
Step7
Separate the cord's two wires with a razor blade or utility knife, cutting 2 to 4 inches down the cord's center.
Step8
Strip about 1 inch of insulation from the separated wire ends with a wire stripper. (Do not cut toward yourself, and take care not to pinch the palm of your hand.) Make sure there are no other nicks or cuts elsewhere on the cord.
Step9
Twist the ends of each exposed wire clockwise so they don't fray, then curl each into a small hook.
Step10
Place one hook over each screw in the socket, wrapping the wire in a clockwise direction (this will help ensure a snug fit under the screw).
Step11
Make sure the wires won't come into contact with each other, then tighten the screws.
Step12
Reassemble the lamp by first screwing in the socket. Then replace the bulb and shade.

Tips & Warnings

  • When replacing a defective cord, also replace the plug (see 'eHow to Replace a Plug').
  • It is potentially dangerous to work with electrical systems. If you are unsure about your abilities or about any aspect of the project, call an electrician (see "eHow to Hire an Electrician').

Comments

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Anonymous

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 The plug should be polarized, and the correct (+ or -) wire placed into the proper socket screw (one is brass color, one is steel color). This is to prevent the outside surface of the socket from being "hot".

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eHow Article:  How to Replace a Lamp Cord

eHow Home & Garden Editor

eHow Home & Garden Editor

Category: Home & Garden

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