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How to Check Wiring on a Vintage Iron

Small appliances manufactured in the early to mid-1900s were created with fabric-covered insulated wiring, unlike the rubber and plastic cords of today. Nicks, breaks or worn spots in new wiring are usually clearly visible. The fabric covering of the older appliances may hide damage to the wiring, actually making the appliance less safe. Any of the wiring on older appliances can be replaced, but putting new wiring on an antique iron may lower the value.

Instructions

- 1
  Check the entire length of the cord inch by inch for any spots that look burned or scorched. This may be seen as simply a browned or blackened spot in the fabric.
- 2
  Bend and turn every inch of the cord, looking for breaks or bumps in the wiring. A bump may mean a slightly melted spot in the insulation under the fabric.
- 3
  Examine the fabric covering of the wiring for tears, loose fibers or areas where a household pet may have chewed it.
- 4
  Check the wiring where it connects to the iron itself. If it feels loose or not securely connected, it may need to be replaced. It should feel firmly connected inside the iron.

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