Fix a Lamp Cord | Family Handyman

Strip the insulation off the wire by cutting and pulling the wire through the wire stripper. To prepare the cut end for a new plug, cut or pull the two sides apart, then strip off about 3/4 in. of insulation. Lamp and extension cords are usually 18 gauge, but if you’re not sure, strip the wire through the 14- or 16-gauge slot first.

For each socket, cut a piece of lamp cord the same length as the old socket wires, then part and strip both ends of the socket wires, as well as the upper end of a new lamp cord. Connect the neutral wire -- the one with the ridge in its insulation -- to the silver socket terminal and the other wire to the brass socket terminal.

Gather the necessary materials for your lamp. Head to your local hardware store or visit an online supplier. Either purchase a DIY lamp socket kit or purchase the following: a zinc-plated nipple about 8 inches (20 cm) long, light bulb, lamp cord, lamp base, plug, lampshade, socket, socket cap, harp, knurl washer, and a rubber washer. Each lamp cord is made of 2 wires stuck

New lamp cords are easy to find; they are usually made with 18-gauge wire. Wire Gauge The gauge of a conducting wire is a measure of its cross-sectional area, and lower gauge numbers signify ...

If needed, the wire can be tacked down later with a large staple. Starting at the bottom, thread your lamp wire up through your lamp. You may find it easier to tape the ends together. I have also seen a wire inserted from the top, wrapped around the lamp cord and the cord pulled through the lamp.

The Southwire Company 100 ft. White 18/2 Lamp The Southwire Company 100 ft. White 18/2 Lamp Wire is designed to be used inside of your home in temperatures as low as -20°C and up to 105°C. This wire features copper conductors and has a 300-Volt maximum capacity. Made with premium grade PVC insulation/jacket.

The current flows into the lamp cord via the 'Hot' wire and returns to the source via the 'Neutral' wire. As a result, most lamp (or zip) cord is made up of two wires. Some cord, used mostly for hanging pendants, has three wires and the third is what's called the 'ground'.

Several sizes of in-line cord switches are available at hardware stores, home centers and lamp specialty stores. Look at the tiny printing on the cord to determine which size switch you need, SPT-1 or SPT-2. In-line cord switches also vary slightly in design. Consult the instruction sheet before installation.