Power tool cords and extension cords can easily become damaged, whether from accidental cuts, wear and tear, or even pet chewing. While it may seem like a hassle, repairing a cut power cord is actually quite simple and cost-effective compared to buying a replacement. With a few basic supplies and some simple steps, you can have your cord working good as new in just a few minutes.
Materials Needed
Heat shrink tubing with adhesive lining (for a secure, insulated connection)
Butt splice connectors
Wire strippers
Crimping tool
Soldering iron (optional for extra strength)
Electrical tape
Steps to Repair a Cut Power Cord
Cut away any damaged or frayed portions of the cord, leaving clean ends to work with.
Strip about 1 inch of insulation off each wire end using wire strippers. Be careful not to nick or cut the actual wires.
Twist the stranded wires together on each side to keep them neat and tidy.
Slide a piece of heat shrink tubing over one end of the cord. The tubing should be long enough to cover the entire splice area.
Insert the twisted wire ends into a butt splice connector. Use a crimping tool to securely crimp the connector in place.
Solder the wires together for extra strength and conductivity (optional).
Slide the heat shrink tubing over the splice and use a heat gun or lighter to shrink it down, creating a tight, waterproof seal. The adhesive lining will melt and bond the tubing to the cord.
Wrap the splice area with electrical tape for extra insulation and protection (optional).
Plug in your repaired cord and test it to ensure it’s working properly. If you notice any issues, discontinue use immediately.
With these simple steps, you can easily fix a cut power cord and get back to using your power tools and appliances. Just be sure to take proper safety precautions when working with electricity. If you’re not comfortable with the repair, it’s best to replace the cord entirely.