Loss of electrical connection is among the most annoying things that can occur at home or at work. It is even more infuriating if it occurs when you are doing something like watching your favorite TV program. A plug of an extension cord could be one of the reasons behind the loss of electrical connection. If so, it doesn't mean that you are doomed. All you need to do to get back to your favorite TV program is replace the faulty plug with another plug, preferably a new one. And the following tips will show you just how.
Removing The Jacket
Before you start, turn off your main electrical switch. Electricity is dangerous and something you can't gamble with. Then cut off the faulty plug so as to have an easy time removing the wire jacket. Using a utility knife, make a shallow cut (about 3/4") through the jacket of the cord. After making the shallow cut, make another cut -- a round cut -- at the end of the other cut so as to break the jacket off. When the jacket is off, you should have a clear view of the wires inside. Strip off the insulation (about 1/2") of these wires using a wire cutter.
Attaching The Wires
After exposing the inner wires, the next step is to attach them to the new plug. So first, you must loosen the screws of the replacement plug and open it to gain access to the terminal screws inside. Then attach each wire to its respective terminal. The neutral wire (white) should be fixed to the silver screw. The green wire should be attached to the green screw, and the black should be attached to the brass screw. Finally, screw the replacement plug back to its original form.
To avoid future plug problems, there are principles that you shouldn't defy. One rule is that you should not overload your extension cords. An overload may draw too much power, which may end up damaging the plug. Overloading your extension cord is also an implication that you have few outlets to satisfy your needs. Consider adding more outlets instead of overloading your extension cord. Also, if a plug doesn't fit in a certain outlet, do not force it. For instance, if a plug is a three-prong plug, do not use it in an outlet that is designed with two slots. Trying to force it in by cutting off the ground pin may not only damage the plug but also cause an electrical shock. Use the plug in an outlet that can accommodate it comfortably.
Speak with an electric services professional for more information.
Share19 January 2016
Welcome to my blog. My name is Mia. A few years ago, my partner and I bought an old home. It needed to have all new wiring installed, and through that process of working closely with a fabulous electrician, I learned a lot. I learned everything, from which questions to ask, to how to do a bit of wiring on my own. If you are hiring an electrician, you need to explore my posts. I hope they help guide you in the right direction. Now, that our home is finally, for the first time, not in the midst of a repair or project, I decided to start this blog. In addition, I also like to fish and read.