What is this?
When plugging in an appliance immediately causes your electrics to trip, either the appliance itself has a fault or the socket you are plugging into has a problem. If the same appliance trips the electrics in any socket, the appliance is at fault. If multiple appliances trip the same socket, the socket or circuit has a fault.
Common causes
- Faulty appliance with internal insulation breakdown causing earth leakage
- Damaged appliance flex with exposed or frayed wires
- Water-damaged appliance that has not fully dried out
- Faulty socket with loose internal connections
- Incorrect plug wiring in the appliance (especially on older items with non-moulded plugs)
- Appliance with a very high inrush current overwhelming the circuit
Is it dangerous?
If the appliance is faulty, using it elsewhere or forcing the electrics to stay on could result in an electric shock or fire. The RCD or MCB is doing its job. Do not defeat the protection by removing the earth wire or using an unearthed socket.
Can I fix it myself?
Try the appliance in a different socket on a different circuit. If it trips that circuit too, the appliance is faulty — stop using it and get it repaired or replaced. Check the plug wiring if it is a non-moulded plug. Check the flex for any visible damage. If multiple appliances trip the same socket, the socket may be faulty.
When to call an electrician
Call an electrician if you cannot determine whether the fault is the appliance or the socket, if multiple sockets on the same circuit are affected, or if you find a socket that appears damaged, scorched, or loose. An electrician can test both the appliance and the socket circuit.
What will an electrician do?
Test the suspect appliance with portable appliance testing (PAT) equipment
Test the socket and circuit for faults
Check the socket connections for looseness, damage, or overheating
Replace faulty sockets if necessary
Test the circuit protection to ensure it is operating correctly
Typical cost
£80 – £180
Usually resolved quickly once the faulty appliance or socket is identified. Socket replacement costs £15–£30 per socket plus labour.
