Have you ever plugged in a device and noticed a strange burning smell? Or maybe your kettle has started sparking, and you’re not sure whether it’s safe to use. Faulty electrical appliances are a major fire and safety risk, and knowing what to do can prevent accidents, injuries, and costly damage.
If you suspect a faulty electrical appliance in your home, don’t ignore it. Here’s what you need to do to stay safe and prevent potential hazards.
Checklist
1. Switch It Off and Unplug It Immediately
The first and most important step is to turn off and unplug the appliance as soon as you notice a problem. Leaving a faulty electrical appliance connected to power increases the risk of electric shocks and fires.
Signs your appliance might be faulty:
- Sparks or burning smells when in use
- Buzzing or crackling sounds
- Overheating or scorch marks on plugs and sockets
- Flickering lights when the appliance is turned on
- Random power cuts or circuit breaker trips
Quick Question: When was the last time you checked the condition of your appliances? Many faults develop gradually, so regular checks are essential.
2. Check for Visible Damage
Once the appliance is unplugged, take a closer look for any obvious issues, such as:
- Frayed or exposed wires
- Cracked casing or loose parts
- Burn marks around the plug or power cord
If you spot any physical damage, do not attempt to repair the faulty electrical appliance yourself unless you are qualified to do so.
3. Test a Different Plug Socket
Sometimes, the issue isn’t with the appliance itself but with the power socket. Plug a different device into the same socket to see if it works properly.
- If the new device works fine, the original appliance is likely faulty.
- If both appliances fail, the problem could be with your home’s electrical wiring.
Action Step: If you suspect a wiring issue, contact Crannis Technology Services Ltd for a professional electrical inspection.
4. Check the Fuse in the Plug
A blown fuse in the appliance’s plug could be the cause of the issue. If you’re comfortable doing so, replace the fuse with one of the correct rating (printed on the plug or appliance label).
However, if the new fuse blows again immediately, this confirms the appliance is faulty and should not be used.
Need help with fuses and plugs? Check out our blog Are Your Plugs Properly Maintained?
5. Look for a Product Recall
Thousands of electrical products are recalled each year due to safety concerns. It’s worth checking if your appliance is listed on the UK’s official Electrical Safety First recall list: check for product recalls here.
If your appliance has been recalled, stop using it immediately and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for a replacement or refund.
6. Get the Appliance Professionally Inspected
If you’re unsure whether an appliance is safe, don’t take chances. Find a qualified electrician to check it. At Crannis Technology Services Ltd, we offer electrical inspections for homes in Swindon and surrounding areas, ensuring your appliances and wiring are safe and compliant.
7. Replace the Appliance If Necessary
Some faulty appliances aren’t worth repairing—especially older models that don’t meet modern safety standards. If an electrician confirms that the appliance is beyond repair, it’s safer (and often cheaper) to replace it.
Pro Tip: When buying new electrical appliances, always look for the CE or UKCA marking to ensure they meet UK safety regulations.
Stay Safe with Crannis Technology Services Ltd
Faulty electrical appliances are one of the leading causes of house fires in the UK. If you’re ever in doubt, don’t risk it—get it checked.
At Crannis Technology Services Ltd, we can help with:
- Electrical safety inspections
- Plug and fuse replacements
- Wiring and socket checks
- Advice on appliance safety
Concerned about an appliance? Contact us today for expert advice.
