When the round ground prong breaks off, it’s best to stop using the plug. The ground helps reduce shock risk, and bypassing it isn’t recommended.

• Replace the plug, not the single prong: Use a rewirable 3‑prong replacement plug rated for your cord (often 15A/125V).
• Inspect the cord: If the jacket is brittle, burned, or frayed, replacing the entire cord can be a safer choice.
• Follow the wiring diagram: Typically, green to green screw (ground), white to silver (neutral), black to brass (hot), but verify instructions included with the plug.
• When in doubt: A qualified electrician can help, especially with appliances or tools under warranty.

You can find 3‑prong replacement plugs and cord ends online and in store.

Most US 3‑prong plugs (NEMA 5‑15P) use standard color codes, but always check the plug’s diagram.

• Hot (live): Black wire to the brass screw.
• Neutral: White wire to the silver screw.
• Ground: Green or bare wire to the green screw.

If your cord isn’t color‑coded, common identifiers include:

• Neutral: Ribbed or white‑striped insulation.
• Hot: Smooth or unmarked insulation.

Keep conductors the correct length, tighten terminal screws snugly, and secure the strain relief so the cord can’t pull free. A simple outlet tester can help check polarity after you’re done, but results may vary based on your wiring and setup.

1. Unplug and prepare: Disconnect from power and work on a stable surface.
2. Match ratings: Choose a rewirable 3‑prong plug that matches your cord’s amp/voltage and wire gauge.
3. Cut and strip: Remove the old plug, strip the outer jacket carefully, then strip each conductor.
4. Disassemble the new plug: Slide on the plug body and strain‑relief pieces first.
5. Connect conductors: Black (hot) to brass, white (neutral) to silver, green (ground) to green—per the included diagram.
6. Secure strain relief: Clamp the cord jacket firmly without crushing it.
7. Reassemble and check: Tighten all screws and ensure no bare strands are exposed.
8. Test: Use a plug‑in tester to check polarity and ground. If anything seems off, stop and consult a pro.

This approach can help restore safe functionality, but conditions vary.

For a cracked housing, loose blades, or damaged prongs, replacing the end is a practical fix for many extension cords.

• Pick the right end: Choose a 3‑prong male or female replacement end that matches your cord’s amp rating (often 15A/125V) and wire gauge (e.g., 16/3, 14/3, 12/3).
• Match the use: If it’s for outdoor or jobsite use, look for a weather‑resistant, heavy‑duty body with solid strain relief.
• Rewire per the instructions: Follow the plug’s diagram for hot/neutral/ground connections.
• Replace the whole cord if needed: If the cable jacket is cut, brittle, overheated, or water‑damaged, a new cord is the safer option.

You can shop rewirable ends and testers online or in store.

A good fit starts with matching what you already have.

• Blade pattern: Identify the NEMA type. Many household cords use 5‑15P (standard 3‑prong, 125V). Heavy‑duty tools or appliances may use other 3‑prong types—check the device label.
• Rating: Match amperage and voltage (e.g., 15A/125V). Never exceed the cord’s rating.
• Wire gauge capacity: Choose a plug that fits your cable size (16/3, 14/3, 12/3, etc.).
• Form factor: Straight vs. right‑angle, indoor vs. outdoor, and a solid strain‑relief design.
• Certification: Look for safety listings (e.g., UL, ETL) and clear wiring diagrams.

If your cord is only 2‑wire, stick with a 2‑prong replacement; adding a ground to an ungrounded cord isn’t recommended.