Is this an electrical fire hazard??

Mortgage_&_debt_free

Hi all

I have tonight had something unusual happen with a double-plug socket in my lounge.

The double socket has a 4-Gang extension into each socket. One of these runs my PC/screen/printer/shredder, though only the PC and monitor was plugged in at the time.

The other extension runs TV/skybox/video/low energy light.

I noticed the other day on a couple of occasions there was a power interruption for a fraction of a second.

However, tonight when I turned the RH socket off (the PC & monitor) the telly/video/skybox plugged into the other socket went off for a few seconds before coming back on again. I did this a couple of times with the same result - the RH socket was interfering with the LH socket's appliances when I switched it off.

I also noticed a buzzing sound from the socket for a few seconds.

Can anyone give me some advice as to what's happening and what I can do about it?

Thanks

djohn2002uk

Sounds to me as though one or more of the connections inside the socket , the ones containing the wires, needs the screws tightening. Just switching the one socket off is enough movement to cause the loose wire to move and start arcing. That was the buzzing you heard.
Switch the ring main off and remove the socket and check the screws. Make sure they are really tight but don't overtighten, they are only brass and will break.

tomstickland

Agreed.
An electrical chap at work told me that 50Hz mains can loosen screw terminals over time.

djohn2002uk

I ADVISE you to go and take some ADVICE.
My advice is to get that damned toilet seat removed. :rotfl:

By the way, I thought you were in Gloucester. Now you are in Stroud. Not moved again have you?

tomstickland

On the run for a crime I didn't commit against the plumbing underworld.
They're trying to tap into my cistern, but they're not going to flush me out.