rewiring electric heater

handysoul · Nov 10, 2008

Hello,
I have a small electric heater which is quite old but works great. However, the plug area from the wall for about 8 inches is now very hot. I want to replace the cord and have dismantled the unit, it looks pretty straight forward. What do you think is causing this heat in the cord to occur?

Thanks

PEW · Nov 10, 2008

From use, the strands of the wire are most likely breaking where they attach to the plug, so less wire is trying to carry the current and over heating.

If the cord is in good condition, it would be easy to cut a few inches back from the plug and attach a new plug. Just be sure to use one for the proper current, not a lamp plug.

Sponsor · 2022-01-29T12:20:58-0800

Billy_Bob · Nov 10, 2008

An old outlet can also cause this problem. Basically a poor connection causes heat.

Jimbo · Nov 10, 2008

Get some cord of the proper rating, and a heavy duty plug...not one of the little lightweight gizmos. Also, consider the possibility that loose contacts on the recepetacle are contributing to this. Replace the receptacle with a contractor grade one.

Billy_Bob · Nov 10, 2008

Here is the best type of plug to get. These have screw down connections (instead of wrapping the wire around the screw).

Thatguy · Nov 10, 2008

Billy_Bob said:
An old outlet can also cause this problem. Basically a poor connection causes heat.

Yes, and shortens the life of motors.
If the plug pulls out easily you should replace the receptacle.
It's high contact impedance. There aren't many Internet links that deal with this subject.

rewiring electric heater

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