How to Wire a Three-Prong Plug
Plugs with three prongs are designed for safety. The third prong serves as a ground to which the electrical path travels helping to keep anyone in its path safe from electrical shock. New homes provide three-prong receptacles while older homes had two-prong receptacles. A cheater plug can be used on a three-prong plug to make it fit an old receptacle. However, it is not recommended for a long-term solution. Cords and plugs should be inspected carefully. If any signs of wear or exposed wires are present, replacement is necessary. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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1
Remove the screws that hold the plug together. Take it apart making two pieces.
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2
Slide the back side of the plug over the wire.
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3
Strip 1 to 1 1/2 inches of the outer sheath of the cord to reveal three insulated wires inside.
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4
Carefully strip 1/4 inch of the insulation from each of the three wires.
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5
Attach the wires to the second part of the plug where the screws are located. Place the wires under the appropriate screw and tighten the screw securely. The green wire belongs under the green screw. The black wire belongs under the gold or copper screw. The white wire will be placed under the silver screw.
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6
Slide the two parts of the plug together and replace the outer screws.
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7
Plug the item into a receptacle to test the connection.
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Tips & Warnings
It is imperative that each step be followed to ensure safety. Wires that are not properly connected could lead to shock.
