Why is my socket smoking or sparking?

Why Is My Socket Smoking or Sparking? A smoking or sparking socket is never normal and should always be treated as an emergency. Here is what it means and what you should do. What Is Actually Happening? When a socket smokes or sparks, electrical current is jumping across a gap — a process called arcing. This generates extreme heat (arc temperatures can exceed 3,000°C), which can scorch plastic, melt wiring, and set wall cavities alight — sometimes without any visible flame. Most Common Causes Loose terminal connections — wires not clamped tightly, causing intermittent contact and arcing Overloaded socket — too many high-wattage appliances drawing more current than the socket is rated for Worn or damaged socket — internal contacts degrade over time, especially in older properties Damaged plug or appliance — a faulty plug can cause arcing at the point of contact Damp or moisture ingress — particularly in kitchens, bathrooms, or older properties with poor sealing Previous DIY wiring — incorrect terminations or wrong cable used What You Should Do Right Now 1. Unplug any appliance from the socket — do this carefully and quickly 2. Switch off the circuit at your consumer unit (fuse board) — look for the relevant circuit breaker 3. Do not use the socket under any circumstances until it has been inspected 4. Check for scorch marks, melted plastic, or a burning smell — photograph any damage 5. Call a registered electrician — look for someone on the NICEIC or NAPIT register When to Call 999 Instead You can see active flames anywhere near the socket The smoke is thick and persistent and you cannot switch the circuit off Anyone has received an electric shock Do Not Do not pour water on an electrical fire Do not attempt to open the socket yourself Do not assume the problem has gone away if it stops sparking A registered electrician will replace the socket, inspect the wiring behind it, and test the circuit to confirm it is safe.