2 Gang Power Sockets Keep Breaking

[rideforever]

It's at home, the power sockets seem to stop working ... the switch doesn't switch and you can't put a plug in it, it's blocked or stuck somehow.

Something to be worried about or cheap sockets ?

Any recommendations ?

Cheers

 

[EFLImpudence]

Time for a new socket.

Although you did write "the power sockets"; I suppose you don't mean all of them.

 

[rideforever]

Well of the four of them, 3 have gone, over 12 years.

I am happy to replace them ... maybe somebody knows a solid manufacturer.

I am more concerned if this would be a "typical pattern" of a serious electrical problem ??

But perhaps it was just a cheap batch that were put in. Dunno.

 

[JohnW2]

Well of the four of them, 3 have gone, over 12 years.

Nothing lasts for ever, but it sounds as if you have been unlucky (and/or they were very 'cheap and nasty' ones). Have you been there for all of the 12 years and, if so, have they been subjected to particular 'rough treatment' at any times.

Any major reputable brand is probably OK. Avoid anything unbranded, or supplied from outside of the UK!

Kind Regards, John

 

[securespark]

What sort of loads are placed on the sockets that have failed?

 

[rideforever]

It'sin the kitchen so toaster kettle

 

[securespark]

The same one three times?
If not, what's plugged in to the others?

 

[rideforever]

4 are installed, 2 are currently not working, 2 are ok.
5 years ago, I replaced 2 but don't remember which ones, I think the same location has broken twice, and two other locations once, if that makes sense.

I saw some MK ones, don't know if there is a cheaper brand they are £20 each for the same brushed steel with white inserts style.

What's on them :

Toaster, Kettle, ( from time to time : Juicer, Blender, Laptop )

Right now the functioning ones are the ones connected to the to the toaster and kettle, and the rarely used ones are broken.

 

[flameport]

Not particularly likely - but one possible method of damage is a plug which has damaged or poorly made pins. Such things can jam into the socket and mechanically damage the contacts when the plug is removed.
A plug with the plastic pin sleeve incorrectly moulded causing a ridge or lip where the metal and plastic join could cause damage. Or a pin which is slightly rotated from it's proper position.

 

[JohnD]

builders dust can cause it.

 

[rideforever]

Okay well it's not big deal to buy a couple of more units, it has been more than 10 years easily solved.
If they go then can investigate further.
thanks

 

[EFLImpudence]

Take the old ones to pieces and have a look.

 

[JohnW2]

Take the old ones to pieces and have a look.

Indeed - a man after my own heart!

Very few broken things around here get buried, cremated or recycled without first having an autopsy - curiosity may have killed the cat, but it's what keeps me going

Kind Regards, John

 

[securespark]

curiosity may have killed the cat, but it's what keeps me going

 

[bernardgreen]

Switching a high power appliance such as a toaster or kettle ON and OFF using the switch on the socket can wear out the contacts in that switch leading to early failure of the switch.

The switch in the socket is ( should be ) able to carry 13 amps but may not be able to break a current ( switching off ) without an arc being created between the contacts. that damages the contacts.