All the appliances we use in our daily life has some type of electrical plugs that connects the appliances to the electrical sources that is sockets to supply electricity. It is the plug that connects the appliance's wires to the electricity source. But when the electrical plugs or cords are damaged, it can be extremely dangerous. A damaged plug can cause spark or smoke causing fires.If the plugs or cords are sparking, just unplug the appliance and cut the power to be safe and secure because it can cause fire leading to health and wealth hazards. After unplugging wait for some time and let the plug cool for some time. Then check the plug, cord and outlet to see if they are damaged. If as such then take it to the servicing center or replace with a new one.
Replace the plugs if :
- If an electrical plug is cracked it should be immediately replaced.
- If the plug is discolored it should not be used further.
- If the electrical plug becomes warm when the appliance is on, it means it is not functioning properly and it is the right time to replace it.
- Replace the plug if it has badly bent contacts.
What make the cords and plugs non-functioning?
Heavy usage and age are the two main reasons that take their toll on consumer appliances specially on cords and plugs. Appliances you use most frequently are the common victims, such as irons, blow dryers, toasters, lamps, and refrigerators. Apart from that the vintage model appliances also wear out early.
Choose the right type of plug for appliances
Now if you have planned to buy a new cord for an appliance, it is of utmost importance to get the proper type for the appliance. We will discuss here three basic type of electrical plugs:
Terminal-screw Plugs: In these plugs, the wires attach to screws inside the cord body. These plugs are usually found on older appliances. Often they have a removable insulating disk covering the terminals and wires. Newer plugs have rigid insulating barriers.
Self-connecting Plugs: Small appliances like lamps mainly use self-connecting plugs. The prongs clamp onto the wires of the cord, and an automatic connection is made.
Three-prong Plugs: These plugs come with larger appliances like refrigerators, washers, dryers, and power tools. They have a prong that grounds the appliances.
Replacing 240-volt Plugs
Replacing electrical cords and plugs on a 240-volt appliances such as a dryer or other large appliance needs special attention. You need to purchase a pigtail cord with a plug molded to it. If the appliance or the pigtail cord is not color-coded, in that case first attach the central wire of the pigtail to the center terminal screw on the appliance. Afterwards connect the remaining wires to the other terminal screws.
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