The Able Handyman

Replace a Lamp Cord

When you replace a lamp cord it’s a pretty basic task, but it still has to be done with care to be sure that all connections have been properly made.

What Is Needed

You’ll need a couple of basic tools. A screwdriver and a utility knife with some extra blades should do the trick.

Step 1 – Unplug the Lamp

The very first thing you need to do when you replace a lamp cord is unplug the lamp (of course) and remove the light bulb from the unit. You’ll also unscrew the socket from the lamp in this step as that is where the connections are made.

Step 2 – Remove the Wires

Remove the wires from the socket bottom and pull them off the screws. When you replace a lamp cord, you do not have to take the screws holding the wires all the way out. Just loosen them enough so that the wires come off the ends. You can now pull the old cord out of the bottom of the lamp.

Step 3 – Insert New Wire

Now feed the new wire that you are using to replace the lamp cord through the bottom of the lamp and push it in until you are able to get it from the top of the lamp. Pull it in far enough that you have plenty of room to work with it.

Step 4 – Strip the New Wire

Now strip about an inch from the top of each of the 2 ends and attach it to the bottom of the lamp socket. Be sure that there is no way for the 2 wires to come in contact with one another which can create a shock hazard, and reassemble the lamp. Your project to replace a lamp cord is now complete. You can safely plug it into the wall to test its operation.

How to Change a Faulty Electric Outlet

An electric outlet for one reason or another may need changed from time to time. Sometimes they just wear out inside and become loose, while other times an accident may cause them to become broken. In any case, the outlet must be changed for safety of no other reason.

What Is Needed

You’ll need to get a flathead screwdriver to change the electric outlet, and of course you will need a new outlet. Electric outlets are standard. When you see one that has four plug outlets, this is actually 2 electric outlets married together with wiring. Beyond that, they are standard depending upon the voltage they will be carrying such as 115, or otherwise known as 120, 240, etc.

Step 1 – Remove the Power Source from the Outlet

Remove the power source from the electric outlet by turning off the circuit breaker that goes to it. In the off chance that there are still fuses in place then simply remove the fuse. I like to advise people to put a tag on the breaker letting people know that you are working on the system and that is why the breaker is off or the fuse is removed.

Step 2 – Remove the Face Plate

Now you have to remove the faceplate from the electric outlet. In a single outlet, there will be a screw in between the two outlets. In a double electric outlet, there will be two screws to remove.

Step 3 – Remove the Mounting Screws

Now you have to remove the mounting screws from the electric outlet. There will be one screw at the top of the electric outlet and one at the bottom. Once again, if it is a double outlet, you will have to possibly remove them from the other side as well, but there is a possibility that you won’t. It depends on how long the wires are connecting them together.

Step 4 – Remove the Wires

Now you have to remove the wires from the electric outlet being replaced. In a standard outlet there will be the neutral wire (white) on one side and the hot wire (black) on the other side. There will also be a ground wire attached to it as well, unless the outlet is one of the old style electric outlets that do not have the ground attached to it.

Step 5 – Connect the Wires and Replace the Cover

Now you have to connect the wires to the electric outlet in the same manner that they were removed from the old outlet. Once you have done that, then replace the electric outlet into the electrical box in the wall. Mount the outlet using the mounting screws and then replace the face plate and attach the screw. You can now restore the power to the electric outlet and test it to ensure it is working properly.

How to Install a Ceiling Fan

Installing a ceiling fan is a relatively simple process that anyone can do with just a basic knowledge of electricity and the ability to follow simple instructions.

A ceiling fan can help a homeowner to realize dramatic savings year-round on energy bills. When used properly a ceiling fan can assist with cooling in the summertime and in the winter, the ceiling fans can help by helping to circulate the warm air throughout the home.

Step 1 – Remove the Existing Fixture

The first thing you need to do is to make sure the electric source is turned off to the light fixture. Always remember safety first when working with any system in the house including when installing a ceiling fan.

• Remove the globe or shade from the light fixture and set it aside.
• Unscrew the screws or nuts attaching the light fixture to the ceiling.
• Lower the fixture and untwist the connector caps on the electrical wires and remove the fixture.

Step 2 – Install Ceiling Medallion

Many times there will be the need to install a ceiling medallion to cover any imperfections that may be present. This is especially true in the case that a new hole must be made and a new electrical box installed. This may be purchased separately if one is not included in the box with the ceiling fan.

Step 3 – Install the Ceiling Fan

Following the instructions included with the ceiling fan, connect the electrical wires. There are some units that are just ceiling fans, while others will have a light kit included with them, so instructions may vary a bit, but in the end it’s basically the same. The variation comes when you will connect 2 wires to an electrical wire, as opposed to only one.

After you have made the appropriate connections and mounted the ceiling fan, then you need to test it to be sure it is working properly.