Until recently, all electrical wiring in houses done with aluminum wires. This is a good material, but very fragile.
When replacing switches and sockets, it is not uncommon for cases when it is very difficult to connect to the mains, and sometimes it is simply impossible - the wires are too short.
Read also: What should be the wiring in a private house, do-it-yourself installation, instructions for beginners
Installing a socket in a socket with short wires
Short wires in the socket
Short wires may not necessarily be aluminum - this is not the point. The main thing is that it is almost impossible to join them without first building them up.
For this purpose, various methods can be used. For example, the soldering method, but it is quite long and inconvenient. There are better ways - use clips, clamps or PPE. We will use detachable terminals “Vago”.
For work we need:
- two terminals "Vago" detachable type
- copper wire for extension
- heat-shrink tubing
- pliers
- indicator screwdriver
Step number 1 - de-energize the network
We work with a de-energized network
We turn off the electricity. Using an indicator screwdriver, we check the absence of voltage in the network.
Step number 2 - dismantling and preparatory work
We straighten the wires
After making sure that the socket is de-energized, we dismantle it. Straighten the remaining wire with pliers.
Heat shrink for wire
If the wires are too exposed, we isolate them with a heat shrink tube.
Step number 3 - we build up the wires
Removing the braid from the ends of the wire
We take two pieces of 10 cm of copper wire. We clean their ends - remove the braid about 1 cm.
Terminal “Vago” is convenient and reliable
We insert the stripped wires into the “Vago” detachable terminal and snap the mechanism into place.
Wire extensions – quickly and reliably
The wires are extended, now it will not be difficult to connect an outlet to them.
Step number 4 - mount the outlet
We connect the socket to a de-energized network
We clean the ends and insert the wires into the clamping terminals of the socket. We fix the connections.
Socket replaced
We fix it in the socket and install the cover.
Thematic video: How to install an outlet if there are short wires
How to install an outlet if there are short wires
Need to install an outlet, but the wires are too short? Simple life hack
Thanks to the author! The information was very helpful for me!