Electric appliances have become an essential part of our daily lives. We use them to perform various tasks, from cooking and cleaning to entertainment and communication. However, like any other electronic device, appliances can experience wear and tear over time, and their cords and plugs can become damaged or frayed.

If you notice that your appliance's cord plug is damaged, you may wonder whether you need to replace it. The answer depends on several factors, including the damage's extent, the appliance's age, and the type of plug. 

To help you know where to start, we will explore why you may need to replace an appliance cord plug and provide tips on how to do it safely and effectively. 

Let’s delve in!

Step-By-Step Guide to Replace Appliance Cord Plugs

Step #1: Preparation

This is the most critical step before starting your repair. You need to ensure you have everything required for the task ahead. Here are some of the tools and equipment you will need:

• Wire strippers - You will need a pair of wire strippers to strip the insulation off the end of the wires in the cord.
• Screwdriver or pliers - You will also need a screwdriver or pliers to attach the wires to the terminals on the new plug.
• Wire cutters - A pair of wire cutters or scissors are also required to cut off the old plug from the appliance cord.
• Insulated tools - You should use insulated tools to prevent electrical shock when working with electricity.
• Replacement plug - You will need a replacement plug compatible with the appliance cord and the electrical outlet.

If you are unsure about the process or do not have the necessary tools, it may be best to consult the appliance's manual or a professional electrician.

Step #2: Disconnect your appliance from the electrical outlet

Of course! You don’t want to work with a live current. Ensure you have disconnected the cord plug before you can start working. 

Step #3: Pull through the old code end

Carefully insert the code end in the opening of the plug and use your scissors to cut the old cord leaving about six inches. Note that cutting too close to the adapter might be dangerous if you need to repeat the process. 

Step #4: Strip out the outer insulation on the wires

The next step would be to strip the outer covering for about 3 inches. Use a wire stripper to remove ½ inch of covering on both ends. 

Step #5: Twist the stripped wire clockwise 

You will be required to twist the conductor ends of each wire to form a solid knot. Ensure you twist them clockwise for uniformity. After doing so, pull down the two solid prongs leaving the wires exposed. Use a screwdriver to loosen the screws in your appliance cord plug before proceeding to the next step. 

Step #6: Loop the wires and insert them into the terminal

Twist the wires you left sticking out into one prong and insert them into the required terminal. Using a screwdriver, tighten the screws. If they are not of the same color, you will need to connect the black to the yellow terminal and the white wire to the white terminal. 

Connect the green wire to the grounding terminal if you are working with a three-wire plug.  

Step #7: Put the housing back on and test the appliance

Confirm the conductor wires are properly fixed and replace the insulator back on the plug. If it is designed with clamp sleeves, ensure it is clipped around your appliance cord. Plug in the sock and test your appliance.

Congrats! If you followed the steps correctly, your appliance should function just fine. 

Final Thoughts

Whether you're a homeowner, renter, or business owner, understanding how to maintain your appliances and their cords can help you avoid electrical hazards and extend the lifespan of your appliances. The above steps will help you fix your appliance cord plug in the shortest time possible, saving you time and a significant amount of money purchasing a new cord. 

Are you looking for a quick fix for your electrical appliances? At Starelo, we have a wide range of electrical plugs and connectors. Contact us today for a quick fix.