How to Check a Plug and re-wire a plug

During the Electrical course you will carry out a wide range of tasks that you will face once you have completed your electrical course. Some of them simple; such as rewiring a plug, others can be more complex such as rewiring a room. It is, however, essential to learn the simple tasks before tackling the larger ones as you will find it easier to tackle the larger tasks with a basic knowledge.

Below is some more information on how to re-wire a plug and some simple safety checks.

Firstly it is important to identify that currently in the UK there are two different types of plug the moulded plugs that are found on most modern appliances cannot be checked as they are sealed and only allow you to change the fuse.

However the older style plugs which you can take the back off are easily accessible and will be what this blog post is about.

It is always a good idea to check plugs regularly! Plugs and their cables can be damaged with use. Here’s how to check the common, square-pin 13-amp plug used in appliances such as hairdryers, vacuum cleaners and microwaves.

1. Remove the plug from the socket and check the cable.

• Is the cable securely attached to the appliance and the plug?
• Is the cable cut, nicked or damaged in any way?

There should be no joints and no repairs with insulating tape.

2. Check the plug itself:

• Are there any cracks or damage on the casing?
• Look for signs of overheating, such as a discoloured casing or cable
• Check the mark on the back of the plug to see if it meets BS1362 standards.
• Check that the cable is firmly clamped into the plug and no coloured wires are showing.

3. Open the back of the Plug and Check that:

• The brown wire goes to live (L)
• The blue wire goes to neutral (N)
• The green-and-yellow wire goes to earth (E)
• All screws are tightly fitted
• The fuse is the correct size
• The fuse clips securely into its holder. It should not be loose and there should be no signs of overheating

These simple instructions will ensure a safe electrical item and not give anyone a potentially fatal shock.

If you would like to become a fully qualified electrician contact us today on 0808 115 6538 or fill in the form on the right for more information.