How to Know If a Power Cord Is Bad?
Every day, we rely on power supply cords to run our computers, chargers, TVs, and many other devices. But what happens if a cord goes bad? Using a faulty power supply cord is not just annoying—it can be risky for your safety, too. In this guide, you’ll discover simple ways to check for a bad cord, with friendly advice even a 12-year-old can follow.
Why Is It Important to Check Power Supply Cords?
Your power supply cord is the bridge between your device and the electricity flowing from the wall. If this bridge breaks, your device won’t work, and in some cases, it could cause shocks, fires, or damage to your devices. Knowing how to spot and handle a bad cord helps you stay safe and keeps everything running smoothly.
Meet the Power Supply Cord
A power supply cord is the thick cable that plugs into your device and then into an outlet. It is wrapped in strong plastic for safety and has plugs on both ends.
When cords are new and undamaged, they are flexible, sturdy, and safe. But over time, even the best ones can wear out or get damaged.
The Exact Answer: How to Know If a Power Cord Is Bad
A power supply cord is bad if it shows any signs of damage, such as fraying, cuts, burn marks, exposed wires, melted spots, strange smells, overheating, loose or bent plugs, buzzing sounds, sparks, or if your devices lose power or won’t turn on when using it. If you see any of these signs, stop using the cord right away and replace it.
Warning Signs: What Makes a Power Supply Cord “Bad”?
Some things are easy to see, touch, or smell. Here’s what to look out for:
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Cuts or Frays: If the outer plastic is cut or torn.
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Exposed Wires: Any metal wire showing through.
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Burn Marks or Melting: Dark or melted spots on the plug or cord.
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Loose or Bent Plug: Plugs that wobble or look twisted.
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Sparks or Smoke: Sparks when plugging in, or any smoke at all.
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Strange Smells: Any burnt or odd smell when the cord is in use.
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Feels Hot: Cord gets very warm or hot, even if it looks okay.
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Buzzing or Crackling: Noises coming from the cord or plug.
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Intermittent Power: Devices turn off and on for no reason.
Step-by-Step: How to Check If a Power Supply Cord Is Bad
1. Unplug First!
Always unplug the power supply cord before you look for damage. This keeps you safe.
2. Look Over the Cord
Hold the cord and check the whole length. Search for frays, cuts, cracks, or spots where the plastic cover is missing. Watch for bumps, lumps, or squishy spots—they can mean trouble inside.
3. Check Each End
Examine both plugs. Are the metal pins straight and clean? The plastic should not be melted, wobbly, or blackened.
4. Smell and Feel
Run your fingers along the cord to feel for hot areas or soft spots. Take a sniff—if it smells burnt or funny, that’s a problem.
5. Listen Up
Plug in the cord and pay attention for any buzzing, crackling, or popping sounds. These noises mean the cord is not working right.
6. Test Power
If your device does not turn on, turns off suddenly, or works only if you wiggle the cord, your cord may be bad inside.
7. Use a Multimeter (Optional)
For extra checking, an adult can use a tool called a multimeter to see if the electricity is moving through the cord correctly. No “beep” from the multimeter? That cord is probably broken.
Table: Signs of a Bad Power Supply Cord
| What You Notice | What It Means | What To Do |
|---|---|---|
| Frays, cuts, or cracks | Outer cover is broken | Replace cord right away |
| Exposed wires | Safety hazard | Stop using, replace cord |
| Burn marks or melted ends | Overheating/fire risk | Replace cord immediately |
| Loose or bent plug | Poor connection |
 
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