Electrical problems in UK homes can be worrying and, in some cases, dangerous. This page covers the most common electrical faults homeowners experience, explains what they usually mean, and helps you understand when it’s time to call a qualified electrician.
Below are some of the most common electrical faults found in UK homes, along with guides explaining the causes, safe checks you can carry out, and when to call a qualified electrician.
Power & Tripping Issues
- RCD or circuit breaker keeps tripping
- RCD Trips at Night
- RCD Trips When it Rains
- RCD Trips When Washing Machine Starts
- RCD trips randomly
- RCD trips when nothing is plugged in
- RCD trips after power cut
- Oven or hob keeps tripping the circuit
- Fuse blowing repeatedly
- Electric shower not working
- Sockets keep tripping breaker
- Appliances trip RCD when switched on
- Breaker won’t reset
- Power keeps cutting out in house
- Partial power outage in home
RCD and circuit breaker faults are among the most common electrical problems in UK homes. If your electrics keep tripping, see our detailed guide on why an RCD or circuit breaker keeps tripping.
Lighting Problems
- Lights flickering or dimming
- Lights not working but sockets are
- One light not working but others are
- Lights buzzing or humming
- LED lights flickering
- Lights flicker when washing machine runs
- Lights dim when kettle turns on
Socket & Circuit Issues
- No power to sockets in one room
- Socket not working but others are fine
- Extension Lead keeps tripping
- Extension Lead Trips Breaker
- Extension Lead Overheating
- Extension Lead Not Working
- Extension Lead Sparking
- Plug Overheating in Socket
- Plug Loose in Socket
- Double Socket Not Working
- One socket makes others stop working
- Socket sparking when plugging in
- Socket making buzzing sound
- Outdoor Socket Not Working
- Kitchen Sockets Not Working
- Half the house has no power
- Downstairs sockets not working
- Upstairs sockets not working
- Socket works sometimes
- Plug sparks when plugging in
Overheating & Burning Smells
- Burning smell from socket or switch
- Socket hot to touch
- Switch overheating
- Crackling sound from socket
- Consumer unit making noise
Fixed Appliances
- Extractor fan not working
- Immersion heater not working
- Cooker switch not working
- Boiler electrics tripping
Not sure where to start? Our electrical advice for UK homes explains how domestic electrical systems work and when professional help is needed.
Electrical faults can occur in homes across the UK. If you’re looking for a broader overview of electrical problems and when to seek professional help, see our guide to common electrical problems in UK homes.
Electrical Fault Diagnosis
Many electrical problems in homes are caused by faulty appliances, damaged wiring, overloaded circuits, or moisture entering electrical equipment. Identifying the cause early can prevent further damage and improve electrical safety.
The guides above explain the most common electrical issues and how to safely investigate them before contacting an electrician.
Not Sure What’s Causing the Problem?
If you cannot find your exact issue listed above, or if the symptoms are unclear, it may be safer to contact a qualified electrician to carry out proper testing and inspection.
Electrical faults are not always obvious, and early diagnosis can prevent more serious damage.