The Sewing Machine Power Cord

In the early days of the sewing machine, the power to drive the mechanisms came from either hand or foot instead of electric motors. The treadle sewing machine has been manufactured for over 150 years. Janome International continues to produce treadle sewing machines for third wold settings lacking electricity. Those groups of people like Pennsylvanias Amish who prefer not to use electric powered sewing machines continue to seek this design. Many hundreds of sewing machine models were also manufactured using hand crank mechanisms.

The treadle sewing machine has been manufactured for over 150 years. Janome International continues to produce treadle sewing machines for third world settings lacking electricity. Those groups of people like Pennsylvanias Amish who prefer not to use electric powered sewing machines continue to seek this design. Many hundreds of sewing machine models were also manufactured using hand crank mechanisms. The introduction of electric motors to sewing machines brought a huge advancement in convenience and productivity. Today electric power has largely replaced the treadle and hand crank sewing machines. Electrical power is distributed through the standard household electrical outlet to the sewing machine power cord. In the United States, this electric power comes in 120 AC, but in Europe it comes in 240 AC. The electrical system within the sewing machine must be designed to accommodate the appropriate power system. The sewing machine power cord must also fit the right system. Using a machine designed for use in the United States in Europe (or the reverse), will result in a messed up sewing machine.

Different power systems were easily managed with the use of power transformers. The power cord plugs in to the transformer and the transformer converts to the appropriate type of power source. Static charges, shorts, shocks, and electrical fire are still issues. If you have ever gotten an electric shock, you know how it can hurt. We have become accustomed to electrical appliance, but it is crucial that we remember the power cord is a major source of problems. Most house fires are caused by electrical mishaps. If the power cord becomes damaged, it can cause terrible damage.

Be alert. You need have not fear, when you have prevented problems. Examine the power cord frequently. Feel it. Look at it. Flex it. Do you see any cracks? Does it have any cuts, or spots that are pinched? Does it have wires exposed. Are the prongs straight? Be proactive. Many of the problems with electrical cords can be repaired quickly and easily. Small cracks and even small cuts may simply be wrapped with electrical tape. Wrap it securely above and below the blemish.

If you see cracks or an obvious break in the power cord, repair the cord by cutting the bad spot out of the power cord. Join only good ends by separating the two wires on each section. Make sure the insulation is intact. Attach the appropriate ends together. Remember you are working with AC voltage so as long as the wire is continuous after joining, they will work. You may solder the ends or use wire nuts to join the wire. Once the wires are joined, cover the joint with electricians tape thoroughly to prevent further wear.

Replacing a bad wire is necessary. If you have more than a few flaws, replace it. A new cord can save headaches and heartaches. Make sure you replace the cord with one of appropriate size. Power cords should be no less than 18 gage and preferably 16 gage if very long. If necessary you may be able to splice the sewing machine end or the plug of the cord onto the new power cord, but it is preferable to get a whole new cord with both new ends. Usually, those power cords that also connect to foot pedals, can be installed with the same foot pedal. Replace it too if needed.

If you power cord is faulty, replace it. Check with you local independent sewing machine dealer or a wholesale parts dealer like Tacony Corporation for availability. Older cords will probably need to be replaced with aftermarket new ones. The foot pedal can also be replaced, but if it is older, you may need to opt for a generic foot control.

Just do it! Repair bad spots on power cords, and replace bad power cords. There are too dangerous not to fix.