We’ve all got to start somewhere. This is a 10 step guide to wiring a plug, aimed at those who’ve been fortunate enough to escape the most basic DIY jobs. You know who you are. Bet you’ve got other skills and talents though.
Warning on Wiring: messing around with electricity is dangerous if you don’t know what you are doing. It is always better to seek professional advice.
1. You need a flat screwdriver, a strippers and cutters. 1st cut back outside insulation ca 4cm exposing three insulated wires.
2. Ensure that none of the insulation on the three wires gets cut during the first part of this operation.
3. The wires are BROWN for Live. BLUE for Neutral and GREEN/YELLOW for Earth. Cut the Brown wire to ca 2cm, the Blue to 3cm.
4. Remove 1cm of insulation from the three wires and twist the exposed strands with your fingers to prevent them fraying.
5. Remove the cover from the plug and loosen the three brass screws, also remove the two screws folding the restraining strap.
6. Place the brown exposed wire in the brass terminal on the right hand side of the plug connected to the fuse, tighten screw.
7. Place the exposed part of the Blue wire in the terminal on the LHS of the plug and tighten the screw, tight.
8. Place the Earth wire (Green/Yellow) in the top centre terminal of the plug and tighten, re-tighten the other connections.
9. Route the wire down the plug, place the Straining strap over the wire covering the outside insulation and tighten.
10. Again inspect plug for loose or incorrectly connected wire, correct if necessary, then replace cover on plug, test ok.
