Residential Structural Certifications & Environmental Testing
Spring Hill, FL 34609 (Hernando Co.)
(352) 556-7187

Cords and Plugs  Inspections
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Age and heavy usage can take their toll on cords and plugs.

Common victims are cords and plugs of appliances you use frequently, such as irons and blow dryers; appliances you've had a long time, such as toasters, lamps, and refrigerators; and vintage models whose electrical systems are simply wearing out.

 
There are several types of electrical cords; they vary in their construction depending upon how they're used. For example, lamps and fixtures typically have molded plastic-insulated cords. Power tools and vacuum cleaners often have similar plastic-insulated cords but, because they carry more power, the cords are larger in size. If you buy a new cord for an appliance, be sure to get one that is the proper size and type for the appliance.

The three basic kinds of plug are self-connecting, terminal-screw, and three-prong. Lamps and small appliances most often use self-connecting plugs, the prongs of which clamp onto the wires of the cord, making an automatic connection.

With terminal-screw plugs, the wires attach to screws inside the cord body; this type of plug is usually found on older appliances. An older terminal-screw plug often has a removable insulating disk covering the terminals and wires. Newer plugs have rigid insulating barriers.

Three-prong plugs are used for larger appliances such as washers, dryers, refrigerators, and power tools, and include a prong that grounds the appliance. When planning where you are going to place a large appliance, be sure you have the appropriate kind of outlet available, or plan to install one.

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