One of the most common electrical tasks we face as householders is the need to wire a plug. However a surprising number of people are unaware of exactly how to do this and we felt as though it would be helpful to draw up a quick and simple guide designed to help our followers to change a plug should the need arise.
Before starting, make sure that you have a medium sized flat head screwdriver to hand.
Step 1: Open up the plug
Loosen and remove the screw in the centre of the underside of the plug. Once this has been done, remove the plug’s top cover but take care none of the pins or the fuse fall out.
Some plugs also have two smaller screws that hold a clamp across the wire. This stops the cord being pulled out of the plug. If this is the case, take some time to loosen these particular screws and then loosen the brass screws that hold each wire into the pin. (There will be either two or three wires to loosen.)
Step 2: Prepare the wires
Place the wire inside the plug and mark how long it will need to be to reach the terminals without it being too stretched too tight. When you have done this, lightly score the outer coating of the wire, taking great care now to cut the wires on the inside.
Modern wiring is coloured: blue for neutral, brown for live and green/yellow for earth. The new plug will have clear markings on the plastic case for E (earth), L (live) and N (neutral).
Step 3: Cut away the tips
Cut the wires to the length required and use wire strippers or pliers to pull away 12mm (1/2in) of insulation from the end of each wire.
If the wires are frayed or damaged in any way, cut through the cord and strip away enough sheathing to make new wire connections.
Twist the ends of each wire (this will make for a better connection) and push into the terminals. Then use a small screwdriver to secure each wire in place. Some plugs have a cylindrical post terminal with a hole for the wire. All the wires must be inside the hole and firmly held by the top screw.
Double check you have the correct colour of wire connected to each terminal.
Tip: Always make sure the wires lie flat and aren’t trapped across part of the plug casing.
Step 4: Fit the casing
The cord is held in place by a clamp and screws or a plastic grip. Fit the cord into the plug so that all the sheathed flex is tightly held in place.
Check you have the correct fuse for the appliance fitted and screw the top of the plug back on. Test the appliance
For additional help, check out this great video guide!
Last Updated on April 12, 2019 