Wiring a plug

LAST UPDATED: 15th January 2023 by The Editorial Team

Plug being rewired

Summary: Step by step guide and video showing how to wire a plug and change a fuse.

How to change a fuse

Plugs will be fitted with either a 13amp or 3amp fuse depending on the appliance, so take the old fuse with you when you need to buy replacements. If you have lost the old fuse, check the underside of the appliance for its wattage. Anything over 700W will require a 13amp fuse.

Replacing fuses

  • Unplug the appliance and unscrew the plug cover.
  • Replace the fuse cartridge inserted.

If the plug on your appliance is a one-piece moulded unit, you will have to cut the flex and replace the entire plug, following the re-wiring instructions below.

Swing the grip that secures the cable to one side and connect the cores to their terminals in the plug.

Wiring a plug

  • Prepare the flex for connection by stripping about 40mm (1 1/2in) from the outer PVC protective covering at the end of the flex using a sharp knife. Avoid cutting or nicking the insulation on the colour-coded cores and separate the colour-coded conductors.
  • The cores are connected to the flex connector by screw-down terminals. About 15mm (1/2in) of the colour-coded insulation needs to be stripped from each of the cores using wire strippers. With the coloured insulation removed, twist the strands of wire together.
  • Unscrew the cover of the plug.
  • Swing the grip that secures the cable to one side.
  • Connect the cores to their terminals in the plug. Most plugs come with a picture template to illustrate the connections: blue to Neutral, brown to Live and green-and-yellow to Earth.
  • Move the grip back into place to secure the flex and refit the plug cover, ensuring it is firmly screwed together.

Tools needed

  • Insulated screwdriver
  • Trimming knife
  • Wire strippers/cutters

Materials needed

  • 3 or 13 amp fuse cartridge

Important note

The colour-coding system for electric cable changed in 2006, make sure you read Electric cable and flex to view the new information.

How to change a fuse video

How to wire a plug video

Author

The Editorial Team

The Editorial Team at lets-do-diy.com are a team of experts led by Mark Wilson. We have been creating DIY projects, articles, costs guides and product reviews since 2008. For more info see our about page.