Checking a plug
In the UK all modern appliances such as hairdryers, vacuum cleaners and microwaves use a square pin 13 amp plug. Plugs and their cables can suffer damage with use so it is a good idea to check them regularly.
With the plug removed from the socket, check the cable from end to end and ask the following:
- Is the cable securely attached to the appliance and the plug?
- Is the cable cut, nicked or damaged in any way?
There should preferably be no joints and certainly no repairs with insulating tape.
Checking the plug:
- Remove the plug from the socket and check the plug is not damaged.
- Look for signs of overheating, such as discoloured casing or cable.
- Check that the plug meets British Standard BS 1363 - it should be marked on the back of the plug.
- Check that the cable sheath is firmly clamped in the plug and that no coloured wires are showing.
For plugs that did not come fitted to the appliance, check that the cable is connected correctly as follows.
- Remove the plug from the socket, and remove the cover.
Check that:
- the Brown wire goes to live (L);
- the Blue wire goes to neutral (N); and
- the Green-and-yellow wire goes to earth (E).
- Check that the cord clamp holds the cable securely and that both of the screws are tight.
- Check that the screws holding the three wires are tight.
- Check that the fuse is the correct size and meets British Standard BS 1362 - see the manufacturer's instructions if you are not sure what fuse to use. The fuse should clip securely into its holder. It should not be loose and there should be no signs of overheating.
- Replace the cover securely.
