A broken plug can be a frustrating problem, especially if it is preventing you from using an important appliance or electronic device. Fortunately, fixing a broken plug can be a relatively simple process that can be done with a few basic tools and a little bit of know-how. In this article, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to fix a broken plug.

Common Problems

The first step in fixing a broken plug is to identify the problem. The most common cause is a tripped breaker. Click here to read our article on how to identify and fix a tripped breaker. It’s important to figure out why the breaker tripped in the first place. Other common problems include loose connections, broken wires, or physical damage. If you do not have training or experience working with electricity you should seriously consider soliciting the services of a Licensed Electrical Contractor. You can click here to read an article on how you can find one in your area.

Basic Tools Required

To fix a broken plug, you will need a few basic tools and a replacement plug. Start with a wire cutter, a wire stripper, a multi-screwdriver and some wire connectors. Most importantly you will need a good quality meter to measure voltage. You can find replacement plugs at most big box hardware or electronic supply store. Always ensure you are purchasing electrical devices that are CSA approved for use in Canada. Ordering devices online from websites like amazon.ca can be risky as illegal and unapproved products are sometimes sold.

Open The Plug

Once you have identified the correct breaker and have attempted to reset it, make sure it is turned off. This will help ensure you don’t work on anything live. Then use your electrical meter or non-contact voltage tester to detect any presence of electricity. Once you have absolutely ensured there is no power in the box you are working in, it’s safe to start. Start by removing the faceplate and taking the plug out of the box.

Identify The Problem

Once you have the plug unscrewed from the device box you will be able to get a better visual on any issues. If there is a broken connection or a melted wire it should be obvious. This photo shows what a loose connection that has built up a lot of heat will look like. You can also see the wires are not terminated very well. If the wire is broken you will need to re-strip the wire and re-do the connection. If the wire is damaged make sure you cut away the damaged part. If the plug is damaged in any way, make sure you replace it with a new device from a reputable manufacturer. It is important to use only CSA approved electrical devices. If the breaker was not tripped, and you can’t find any issues with the plug thats not working, it may be the next plug on the circuit or a GFCI that has tripped.

Testing

When you finish the connections, screw the plug back in the box. Now you can reset the breaker. Then use your digital multi-meter or plug in tester to ensure the plug is working and the polarity is correct. Put the faceplate back on and you should be done.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It is critical to ensure you are installing the plug properly and up to code. If you are not sure how to do this you need to consult a licensed electrical contractor. It can cost between $200-500 to troubleshoot a broken plug from a reputable company. Here are a few common mistakes that are made when replacing a plug:

• Loose or Tight Connections: It is important to make sure your connection is tight, but not too tight. A loose connection increases resistance which builds up heat. However, over-tightening the connection can deform and damage the copper wire. The wire also needs to wrap around the screw in a clock-wise fashion so when the screw is tightened it pulls the wire into the connection. It is also not recommended to use the back-stab method.
  
• Aluminum Wiring: Aluminum wiring is considered unsafe by many. However, it is a perfectly suitable wiring method if done correctly. There are special steps you need to take when installing devices with aluminum wiring. Using devices intended for copper wire will almost certainly cause overheating on the connections.
  
• Using unapproved devices: With the prevalence of online retailers there is an increased risk with buying devices not approved for use in Canada. Always ensure your devices are CSA approved.
  
• Working Live: Working live is extremely dangerous. You need to properly ensure your circuit is dead with a good quality digital multi-meter.
  
• Reversed Polarity: It is critical to make sure you put the right wires on the right terminals or you could reverse the polarity on the plug. This could lead to damage of some devices that may not be protected from incorrect wiring.
  
• Missing Ground Wire: Some older homes don’t have a proper grounding electrode or conductor. In that event, a plug should be replaced with a GFCI to provide proper grounding protection in the absence of a dedicated grounding conductor.
  
• Incorrect Wiring: You must ensure that the line wire and neutral wire are not crossed. Connecting them together by accident can lead to a dead short which can cause serious damage.
  

In Conclusion

Replacing a plug can be an easy task if you have the right tools and experience. However it is even easier to make a critical mistake while doing so. If you are not 100% confident in your ability to properly change a device you should always consult a Licensed Electrical Contractor. Contact NSC Electric today for a consultation! You can also click here to view a list of our available services!