Lamp Cord Replacement

Over time, lamp cords can wear out or become damaged and cause a number of problems including faulty connections that can lead to overheating, sparking and even fire. Replacing an old lamp cord is easy, but there are a few things to keep in mind. This article will walk you through removing and replacing the cord as well as attaching a new one to the socket.

First, you will need to purchase a lamp rewire kit. Look for one that is UL listed and includes everything you need to get the job done. The kit should include a new cord, a socket shell and a socket interior. You will also need a light bulb and a lamp shade (optional).

Once you have the materials, follow the steps in this article to remove the old lamp cord and install a new one. This guide will teach you how to do both procedures properly and safely.

Start by determining how long of a cord you need to purchase. To do this, measure the length of the existing cord from the plug to the nipple (where the cord meets the socket). Add about 1 foot to that measurement to provide enough wire for attachments and slack. You can use the old wire as a guide, but make sure you choose a cord that is a match in color and type (SPT or SVT).

Before beginning any work, be sure to unplug the lamp. Never attempt to work on a lamp that is still plugged in since you could potentially shock yourself.

Examine the old cord for any signs of damage, like cracked insulation, exposed or broken wires or a frayed section near the plug. If the cord is showing any of these symptoms, it will need to be replaced.

After examining the existing cord, slit it open and pull the two conductors apart, then strip about an inch of insulation off each end using a wire stripper. This process will remove any excess cord and help protect the exposed ends of the wires.

When working with electrical cords, it is crucial to always wear rubber insulated gloves. This will help prevent you from accidentally cutting or touching the wires with bare hands, which can be dangerous.

It is also important to identify the hot and neutral wires. This can be done by looking at the cord’s plug, where the ribbed side connects to the larger prong and the smooth side to the smaller one. It is possible that the neutral wire is marked with a white stripe or writing, but this is not always the case.

To begin rewiring the lamp, loosen the socket’s terminal screws and remove the cord wires from underneath them. Be careful not to lose the small screws that hold the socket base to the body of the lamp. Once the old cord is removed, carefully feed the new cord up through the bottom of the socket and out through the top.