What is this?
Visible smoke from a socket means materials inside or behind the socket are burning or smouldering. This is an active fire event or the immediate precursor to one. Smoke from a socket can be caused by arcing igniting dust and debris inside the back box, melting cable insulation, or the socket plastic itself burning. This requires immediate action.
Common causes
- Sustained arcing inside the socket igniting dust, debris, or insulation
- Cable insulation melting and smouldering from overheated connections
- Socket plastic itself burning from internal overheating
- Short circuit behind the socket causing flash heating
- Moisture ingress causing tracking and arcing across the socket face
- Vermin damage to cables behind the socket causing exposed conductors to arc
Is it dangerous?
This is an extreme emergency. Smoke means combustion is occurring. Turn off the main switch at the consumer unit if it is safe to do so. Do not put water on an electrical socket. If the smoke is significant, the socket is visibly burning, or you cannot safely reach the consumer unit, evacuate immediately and call 999. After the fire service has confirmed it is safe, call an electrician to repair the installation.
Can I fix it myself?
No. This is an emergency requiring professional help. Your priorities are: 1) Turn off the main switch if safely accessible. 2) Do not use water. 3) If you have a dry powder or CO2 fire extinguisher, you can use it on an electrical fire if trained to do so. 4) If in any doubt, evacuate and call 999.
When to call an electrician
Call an emergency electrician after the immediate danger has been addressed. If the fire service attended, they will advise when it is safe for an electrician to work. The electrician must inspect and repair the damage before any power is restored to the property.
What will an electrician do?
Assess the extent of fire and heat damage to the electrical installation
Replace the damaged socket, back box, and any heat-damaged cabling
Inspect adjacent circuits and sockets for damage from heat or smoke
Test the entire installation (or affected circuits) for integrity
Issue an Electrical Installation Certificate or Minor Works Certificate
Recommend an EICR for the full property if the installation's condition is in question
Typical cost
£150 – £500
Costs depend heavily on the extent of damage. A single socket replacement is cheaper, but fire damage often affects more of the installation. Emergency callout rates apply.
