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Plug Gets Hot When In Use
The plug on an appliance gets hot or very warm when it is in use.
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What's happening?
A plug that gets hot during use indicates that excessive heat is being generated, either within the plug itself, at the connection between the plug and socket, or from the appliance drawing too much current. UK three-pin plugs (BS 1363) are designed to handle up to 13A without significant heating, so a hot plug suggests something is wrong.
What usually causes it?
- Loose wire connections inside the plug (live, neutral, or earth)
- Fuse in the plug is the wrong rating or is making poor contact
- Corroded or damaged plug pins not making good contact with the socket
- Appliance drawing more current than expected due to an internal fault
- Cheap or non-compliant plug not made to BS 1363 standard
- Socket internal contacts worn and not gripping the plug pins
Is it dangerous?
Yes. A hot plug means electrical energy is being converted to heat at a connection point where it should not be. This can melt the plug plastic, damage the socket, and in extreme cases cause a fire. If a plug is so hot you cannot comfortably hold it, stop using it immediately. A plug that smells of burning or shows discolouration must be replaced before the appliance is used again.
Can I fix it myself?
If you are competent to do so, you can inspect the inside of the plug. Turn off and unplug the appliance. Open the plug and check that the wires are properly stripped, firmly secured in the correct terminals, and that no bare wire is exposed. Check the fuse is the correct rating (3A for appliances up to 700W, 13A for higher loads). Ensure the cord grip is holding the cable, not the wires. If the plug pins are bent or discoloured, replace the plug entirely.
When should you call an electrician?
Call an electrician if you are not confident inspecting the plug yourself, if the plug pins are damaged or discoloured, if the problem persists after you have checked the plug, or if multiple appliances experience hot plugs in the same socket (indicating a socket problem).
What will the electrician actually do?
- Inspect the plug connections and replace the plug if damaged
- Check the socket for worn contacts that may not be gripping plug pins
- Test the appliance current draw to check for internal faults
- Replace the socket if it is causing overheating
- Advise on correct fuse ratings for your appliances
What will it cost to fix?
£40–£120
Plug replacement is inexpensive. If the socket also needs replacing, costs are slightly higher. Appliance testing may incur an additional fee.
Find an electricianFrequently asked questions
We’re happy to answer all your questions.
Why does my plug get hot?
The most common cause is loose wire connections inside the plug. Heat is generated when current flows through a poor connection. A wrong fuse rating, damaged pins, or a worn socket can also cause it.
Can I just replace the plug?
If the issue is with the plug connections or the plug is damaged, replacing it with a quality BS 1363 plug should solve the problem. If the new plug also gets hot in the same socket, the socket is the issue.
What fuse should I use?
Use a 3A fuse for appliances rated up to 700W (lamps, phone chargers, TVs, radios). Use a 13A fuse for appliances over 700W (kettles, heaters, irons, washing machines). The correct rating is usually stated in the appliance manual.
Is it the plug or the socket?
Try the appliance in a different socket. If the plug still gets hot, the issue is with the plug or appliance. If it is fine in another socket, the original socket is the problem.
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