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Socket Not Working
A plug socket in your home has stopped working — nothing happens when you plug something in.
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What's happening?
A dead plug socket means no power is reaching the outlet. In UK homes, most sockets are wired on a ring circuit — a loop of cable that starts and ends at the consumer unit. If a socket stops working, it could be a local fault at that socket, a break in the ring circuit, or the MCB protecting the circuit has tripped. A single dead socket is usually a localised issue, while multiple dead sockets suggest a circuit-level problem.
What usually causes it?
- MCB protecting the socket circuit has tripped at the consumer unit
- Loose wire connection inside the socket
- Break in the ring circuit cable
- Faulty socket mechanism — the internal contacts have worn out
- Damaged cable behind the wall from drilling or nail penetration
Is it dangerous?
A dead socket is not immediately dangerous, but the cause may be. Loose connections inside sockets can cause arcing, which generates heat and is a fire risk. If the socket stopped working suddenly after a pop, spark, or burning smell, treat it as urgent.
Can I fix it myself?
First, check the obvious: try a different appliance in the socket to rule out the appliance being faulty. Check your consumer unit for a tripped MCB and try resetting it. If the MCB stays on but the socket is still dead, the fault is in the wiring. Do not remove the faceplate to investigate — wiring work should be done by a qualified electrician.
When should you call an electrician?
Call an electrician if the MCB trips again after resetting, if the socket is dead but the MCB has not tripped, if multiple sockets on the same circuit are dead, or if you noticed any burning smell, sparking, or discolouration before the socket stopped working.
What will the electrician actually do?
- Test the socket with a socket tester to check for power, polarity, and earth
- Remove the faceplate and inspect the wiring connections
- Test the ring circuit continuity (R1, Rn, R2 tests) to check for breaks
- Trace and repair any cable damage in the walls or under the floor
- Replace the socket mechanism if the internal contacts are worn
- Re-test the circuit after repair to confirm correct operation
What will it cost to fix?
£70–£200
A simple loose connection repair is at the lower end. If the cable behind the wall is damaged and needs replacing, expect costs towards the higher end.
Find an electricianFrequently asked questions
We’re happy to answer all your questions.
Why has my plug socket stopped working?
The most common causes are a tripped MCB at the consumer unit or a loose wire inside the socket. Check your consumer unit first — if a switch is in the off or middle position, try resetting it.
Could it be the appliance rather than the socket?
Yes. Always try a different appliance in the socket before assuming the socket is faulty. Similarly, try the original appliance in a different socket to check if it works elsewhere.
What is a ring circuit?
Most UK socket circuits are wired as a ring — the cable leaves the consumer unit, passes through each socket in turn, and loops back to the consumer unit. This means each socket has two cable routes back to the board, providing redundancy.
Is it safe to use an extension lead from another socket?
As a temporary measure, yes, but do not overload the extension lead and do not run cables under carpets where they can overheat. Get the faulty socket repaired properly rather than relying on extension leads long-term.
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