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Fixing a Broken Lamp Cord

easyHome Repair30-60 minutes9 steps

Safety Warnings

  • Ensure the lamp is completely unplugged from the wall outlet before starting any repairs.
  • Do not plug the lamp in until all wiring connections are secure and insulated.
  • Avoid using cords with frayed or damaged insulation.

Tools Needed

Wire Strippers — Standard electrical gauge
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Screwdriver — Phillips #2
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Measuring Tape — 12-foot
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Materials

Lamp Cord — Standard 2-wire electrical cord(length of original cord plus 6 feet)
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Underwriter's Knot — Tying technique for strain relief(1 knot)
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Steps

1
Unplug the lamp from the electrical outlet to ensure there is no power running to the unit.
Tip: Double-check that the plug is physically removed from the socket.
2
Disassemble the lamp by removing the light bulb and unscrewing the socket shell from the lamp base.
Tip: Keep all small screws and washers in a container to avoid loss.
3
Measure the length of the existing broken cord.
Tip: Note the exact length to ensure the new cord reaches the intended outlet.
4
Cut a new lamp cord equal to the length of the original cord plus an additional 6 feet.
Tip: Adding extra length provides flexibility for placement.
5
Thread the new cord through the lamp base and into the socket housing.
Tip: Pull the cord gently to avoid damaging the internal wiring.
6
Tie an Underwriter's Knot in the cord inside the lamp base or socket.
Tip: This knot acts as a strain relief to prevent the wires from pulling out of the terminals.
7
Strip the insulation from the ends of the wires and connect them to the socket terminals using the screwdriver.
Tip: Ensure no bare wire is protruding outside the terminal screw.
8
Reassemble the lamp by replacing the socket shell and securing it to the base.
Tip: Hand-tighten the shell first to avoid stripping the threads.
9
Install a new light bulb and plug the lamp into the wall outlet to test for functionality.
Tip: Check for a steady light without flickering.

Pro Tips

  • Always use an Underwriter's Knot to ensure the electrical connections remain secure regardless of how the cord is pulled.

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Sources

Synthesized from 4 verified sources:

Gutenberg: Electricity for the 4-H ScientistView →
Gutenberg: Dwelling ConstructionView →
Gutenberg: Practical Hints to BuildersView →
Gutenberg: Electrical GuideView →