Electrical problems, explained
What each problem usually means, how dangerous it is, what you can safely check yourself, and when to call an electrician.
Power Loss & Outages
When your electricity goes out — partial or complete power loss in your home.
10 guides
Tripping & Circuit Breakers
RCDs, MCBs, and circuit breakers that keep tripping or won't reset.
14 guides
Flickering & Dimming Lights
Lights that flicker, dim, pulse, or behave erratically in your home.
10 guides
Electrical Buzzing & Humming Noises
Strange buzzing, humming, or vibrating sounds from your electrics.
7 guides
Burning Smells, Smoke & Overheating
Burning smells, smoke, hot sockets, or signs of electrical overheating.
10 guides
Sparks & Electrical Arcing
Sparks, arcing, or crackling sounds from your electrical fittings.
6 guides
Electric Shocks & Tingling
Getting shocks or tingling sensations from switches, taps, or appliances.
7 guides
Socket Problems
Dead sockets, loose fittings, cracked faceplates, and other socket faults.
8 guides
Light Switch & Lighting Problems
Switches that don't work, lights stuck on, and other lighting faults.
9 guides
Wiring Concerns & Issues
Old, damaged, or exposed wiring that may need attention or replacement.
8 guides
Fuse Box & Consumer Unit Problems
Old fuse boxes, hot consumer units, and signs you need an upgrade.
9 guides
Appliances Causing Electrical Problems
Showers, cookers, washing machines, and other appliances tripping your electrics.
8 guides
Outdoor & Garden Electrical Problems
Garden lighting, outdoor sockets, security lights, and other exterior electrical faults.
7 guides
Electrical Emergencies
Fires, floods, lightning strikes, and other urgent electrical emergencies.
7 guides
Electrical Safety & Compliance Issues
Failed EICRs, Part P compliance, missing certificates, and regulatory concerns.
7 guides
Electric Heating Problems
Storage heaters, immersion heaters, underfloor heating, and electric boiler faults.
14 guides
Alarms & Security Systems
Burglar alarms, fire alarms, smoke detectors, CCTV, and entry systems.
13 guides
Electric Vehicle Charging
Home EV charger faults, tripping, slow charging, and installation issues.
6 guides