How to Repair An Unsafe Extension Cord

Extension cords or power cord as they are sometimes called, can be a handy item but they can also be a very dangerous one. Read further to find out what you can do to make sure your electrical extension cord is safe to use.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• 120 Volt 15 Amp Cord Cap
• Electrical Tape

1. 
   A new cord cap will fix this problem so your extension cord will be safe to use again.

   If you have a heavy duty extension cord with the three prong end, this is good. If that third round prong, which is the ground, is broken off then that is bad. With the ground prong broken off of a power cord that is a serious safety issue and should not be used until repairs are made to it. This article will show you how to fix this unsafe condition. Many people do not understand how important the equipment ground is and do not take the necessary precautions to make sure it is always there to protect them from possible electrocution.

2. 
   The new cord cap will have three lugs inside it where these wires will connect.

   You will need a 120 volt 15 or 20 amp cord cap which can be purchased at the nearest home center or electrical supply. You can just take some pliers and cut the bad end off of the power cord. Then you need to strip back the outer sheathing about an inch or so and separate the three wires inside. Strip about 1/4" or so of insulation exposing the copper wire.

3. 
   Insert the wires into the proper lugs and tighten well.

   Inside the new cord cap are three lugs. The green wire goes to the green screw. The white wire hooks to the silver screw and the black wire goes to the brass colored screw. Insert the wires and tighten the lugs good and tight. Make sure there are no loose strands sticking out and touching the other lugs. Close the cord cap and tighten those two screws and you have a safe drop cord again.

4. 
   This electrical cord is now safe and ready to use.

   With a well bonded and intact equipment ground the breaker will trip and shut down the circuit if there is a fault or a problem. Without the ground you could become the path to ground and electrocution could be the result. I can't stress this enough so check and fix those extension cords please!!

Tips & Warnings

• Check to make sure that each extension cord that you own has a three prong male and female end on it.
• Never use an electrical extension cord that the ground has been broken off of it.
• A missing or broken ground on your extension power cord can compromise your safety.

[inquisitgeek]

on 10/9/2009 Very useful article - Thanks!

[rkremer]

on 10/9/2009 Great pictures to help with the instructions.

[hradcliffe]

on 9/29/2009 Good instruction and pictures on how to repair an unsafe extension cord. 5*