How to rewire a vintage lamp safely

Step by step

1. 1

   Step 1: Inspect it

   Look for cracked holders, brittle or cloth covered cord, two core cord on a metal lamp, and missing cord grips. If any of these are present, it needs rewiring.

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   Step 2: Take it apart

   Remove the shade, bulb and lamp holder. Photograph how the old cord runs and how the holder comes apart.

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   Step 3: Feed the new cord

   Tie the new cord to the old one and pull it through the lamp. Fit a cord grip or bush where the cord enters the base so it can't be pulled or rub on metal edges.

4. 4

   Step 4: Wire the holder

   Connect brown (active) and blue (neutral) to the holder terminals. Connect green and yellow (earth) to the earth terminal on the holder or the lamp body. Tighten every screw firmly with no loose strands.

5. 5

   Step 5: Wire the plug

   Brown to the active pin (marked A or L), blue to neutral (N) and green and yellow to earth (E, the longest pin). Clamp the outer sheath in the plug's cord grip.

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   Step 6: Check continuity

   With a multimeter, check the earth pin connects to the metal body, and that there's no connection between active, neutral and earth.

7. 7

   Step 7: Get it tested

   Take it to an electrician or a test and tag service before switching it on. In your listing, say it's been rewired and tested.