How to Replace an Electrical Cord
Have you ever had a lamp that only worked when you wiggled the wire? Or an expensive radio that, thankfully, wasn't plugged in when the puppy chewed the cord in two? Fortunately, many broken electrical appliances can often be salvaged by replacing the cord. Cord replacement can also reduce fire danger in old, worn items that you can't bear to give up. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Replacement cord (or extension cord)
- Screwdriver
- Wire strippers (or knife)
- Wire connectors (three)
- Solder gun (optional)
Instructions
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How to Replace an Electrical Cord
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1
Open the appliance by removing the screws that hold it together. Always be careful when opening the appliance in case there are any parts that might fall out. Take a picture if you can so that you put everything back the way you found it.
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2
Remove the cord from the appliance. Different appliances use different switches and relays. Usually the cord is connected to a switch. It may be screwed on, soldered on, or connected with a wire connector. The only one that might cause a problem is if it's soldered on. If it is, cut the wire about 2 to 3 inches from the switch.
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3
Get your replacement cord ready to install. If you want an exact match, take your old cord to the local hardware store and ask for one. You can also find them online at places such as Bizrate.com. If you are using an extension cord, cut the female end (the part that you'd plug things in to) off. Separate the ends approximately 2 to 3 inches down and use your wire strippers (or knife) to remove the insulation from the wires about ½ inch from the end. Also, thread the cord through any openings that might be necessary to get the cord into the appliance.
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4
Reattach the new cord to your appliance. If you unsoldered the wires, then solder the new ones in. Make sure you put the same colored wires back on the same connection. If you cut the wires, then strip them about ½ inch and connect the new wires using the wire connectors. If you unscrewed the wires, just reattach them. The picture you took might help you to be sure all of your wires are connected properly.
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5
Close up your appliance. Be sure that all of the components are where they belong and put the appliance back together. Tighten down all screws to secure it. Plug in the appliance to test it.
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Tips & Warnings
When soldering, use resin core electrical solder. It is made for electrical connections.
Never work on an electrical cord while it's plugged in to the wall. When soldering, the wires will get very hot. Allow them time to cool before touching them or putting the appliance back together.
