Warning signs
- Scorch or brown marks on the faceplate or the plug
- Crackling, buzzing or fizzing when something is plugged in
- A faceplate or plug that feels warm or hot
- A burning or 'fishy' smell, which can be overheating plastic
- Plugs that fall out easily or feel loose
- Cracked or loose faceplates
- A socket that works on and off, or makes appliances flicker
If a socket is hot, scorched, sparking or smells of burning: don't use it. If it's safe to reach, switch off the appliance and the socket and unplug it, then switch that circuit off at the consumer unit. If there's smoke or fire, get out and call 999.
Is it the socket or the plug?
A damaged plug, the wrong fuse in a plug, or overloading with adaptors and extension leads can all cause overheating. Electrical Safety First has guidance on overloading sockets and plugs and fuses.
Should I replace it myself?
Swapping a like-for-like faceplate isn't usually notifiable under Part P, but it still means working on wiring and needs safe isolation and testing. If there's any sign of heat damage, the cause may be behind the plate, in the cable or connections, so it's a job for a registered electrician.
- Any scorch marks, heat, crackling or burning smell
- A socket or whole circuit not working
- You need more sockets: see adding extra sockets
Sources and further reading
- Electrical Safety First – Overloading sockets
- Electrical Safety First – Plugs and fuses
- GOV.UK – Approved Document P (electrical safety in dwellings)
- Electrical Safety First
General guidance only, based on the sources above. Last reviewed October 2026. It isn't a substitute for an inspection by a qualified electrician.