Electrics problem - shocks from washing machines

explosivo153

googler wrote: »

You need to unplug the washing machine from the mains.

If you're STILL getting shocks from the sink, then there's an earthing problem somewhere else in the house, and you need an electrician as described above.

This is probably the most simple way to know where the problem is, but rather than risk your life use a voltage testing screwdriver, then if it is still happening switch the circuit that the appliance is plugged into off at the fusebox. I would then, as previously suggested get a professional in to fix the problem. It's most likely the wires crossed slightly leading to the socket.

mikey72

explosivo153 wrote: »

This is probably the most simple way to know where the problem is, but rather than risk your life use a voltage testing screwdriver, then if it is still happening switch the circuit that the appliance is plugged into off at the fusebox. I would then, as previously suggested get a professional in to fix the problem. It's most likely the wires crossed slightly leading to the socket.

Crossed slighty !!!???

explosivo153

mikey72 wrote: »

Crossed slighty !!!???

I know! What I mean is there are probably a few frayed parts of the cable touching, rather than two wires being completely crossed over each other in full contact at all times.

mikey72

I just had a fault were the entire earth in the kitchen was disconnected for one end of the ring, then broken somewhere in the middle as well. That would be what I would be checking first.

Owain_Moneysaver

explosivo153 wrote: »

This is probably the most simple way to know where the problem is, but rather than risk your life use a voltage testing screwdriver,

Neon voltage testing screwdrivers are (a) useless, and (b) potentially lethal. They rely on a small current passing through the user to light the neon, and if there's an internal fault then a fatally large fault current can pass through the user.

The only way of testing is to use a proper insulation/continuity tester on both the washing machine and the socket.

googler

DVardysShadow wrote: »

Did you google for that or do you really believe it???

Like you are saying "Test for this potentially fatal wiring by seeing if it gives you a shock". Personally, I would get a professional in to test it or test it myself with the proper kit

Logically, since the OP has ALREADY had 'shocks' from both the washing machine and the sink, on multiple occasions, there's the suggestion that currently (!) there isn't a lethal voltage running through them, merely a small residual current giving them a slight 'tingle' - so my suggestion was to try another appliance to see if they still got the same result.

I freely confess with hindsight that my shorthand version as written above and quoted by you doesn't specifiy what I would see as obvious safety precautions; i.e. plug the second appliance in with the socket switched off, or if there's no switch on the socket, have the MCB off or appropriate fuse removed while plugging in..... and restore the supply from the socket switch or MCB WITHOUT touching the appliance, etc etc - and as I routinely have a voltmeter in the house that I use for testing continuity, etc, to use that as I would.... so perhaps I assumed some expertise on the part of the OP, and I shouldn't post mission-critical advice aat 10.43pm.....

I stand by the advice to merely unplug the WM and see if the shocks from the sink stop, though.

keith969

Owain_Moneysaver wrote: »

Neon voltage testing screwdrivers are (a) useless, and (b) potentially lethal. They rely on a small current passing through the user to light the neon, and if there's an internal fault then a fatally large fault current can pass through the user.

Funny that, the one I've had for 40 years has been very useful, and I'm still here.

By the same logic you can say that if there is an internal fault in a washing machine then a fatally large current can pass though the user... so washing machines are potentially lethal.

paulpud

Neon screwdrivers are an indicator but can't really be relied upon.

As a young naive apprentice I tested for juice using one and when it didn't light up presumed the circuit was dead. After one good old 230v zapping on disconnecting the circuit, I swore I'd never use one again!

Always use a meter or a set of proper test leads and always check they are working by testing a known voltage first.

ormus

by the same token, a multimeter can fail and give you misleading info. with potential lethal results.

deano72_2

came across something similar.turned out to be a loose neutral back at the consumer unit.i suspect you either have a loose neutral/earth connection somewhere.so dont mess about & get a sparks in to investigate.
also neon testers are for tourists