One of the sockets on a 13A 2-gang outdoor unit in my greenhouse is very tight - difficult to get a plug in fully and hard to remove. I think that it's the earth pin that is causing the problem. Is there an easy way to free this up, please or should I just replace it? (Suggestions on the web to use WD40 but that doesn't sound very sensible.)
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Tight 13A socket
- Thread starter Gwyndy
- Start date
WD40 is not electrically conductive, so its worth a try. turn all power off before spraying.
What could go wrong, if it doesant work then buy a new socket.
What could go wrong, if it doesant work then buy a new socket.
That is what I was concerned about - would it act as an insulator on the earth? However, I'll give it a go.
Thanks.
No.
The "layer" would be extremely thin
and
the scraping action of the "jaws" of the socket will give intermate contact with the "pin",
especially since the "action" is already tighter than normal.
Or a new socket.
Could it be that the back box isn't completely flat/square, and hence the front plate is twisting slightly when tightened right up? Try backing the faceplate screws off a little (just enough to release any tension) and see if that helps.
Have you tried measuring the resistance of WD 40 when it's wet?
By all means try WD40 but please turn the power off and leave it off until thouroughly dry.
The issue with using WD40, is that it can mix itself with dust and dirt, from the socket, which can then become conductive. The risk is small, but I ought to point out it did once happen to me, and the tracking caused a minor fire, limited to a switch.
The 'shutter' that opens the Line and Neutral ports when the earth pin is inserted may be the sticky 'issue'?
WD40 only suggest their quick drying contact cleaner spray https://wd40.co.uk/tips-and-tricks/electrical-contact-cleaner-spray-faqs but even that may not help with a sticky shutter?
Other makes of electrical contact cleaner are available.
WD40 only suggest their quick drying contact cleaner spray https://wd40.co.uk/tips-and-tricks/electrical-contact-cleaner-spray-faqs but even that may not help with a sticky shutter?
Other makes of electrical contact cleaner are available.
Is the plug (not the socket) visibly tarnished?
Don't spray anything into the socket.
If you can't restrain yourself from trying lube, wipe the pins on the plug only with a rag moistened with it.
After you have polished off all tarnish with a green pan scourer.
Don't spray anything into the socket.
If you can't restrain yourself from trying lube, wipe the pins on the plug only with a rag moistened with it.
After you have polished off all tarnish with a green pan scourer.
I witnessed someone spraying regular WD40 into a running electric drill, first thing that happened being he dropped the drill due to the electric shock, by the time it hit the floor it had burst into flames and still running with a fairly long masonary bit fitted was jerking around the floor. The fire was very short lived, I doubt it was more than 10 seconds.
The fire could possibly have been due to the build up of flammable material but not the shock. On that experience alone I advise to not spray it onto/into anything live and then wait until it's dry to avoid a shock hazard.
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Why not just buy a new socket?
Couple of pounds only.
Couple of pounds only.
Obviously the existing socket is not suitable for an outside/damp/humid environment, or it wouldn't be jammed up.
So a better socket than a Poundstore special might be advisable.
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