GETTA Help

Burning smell from electrics: what to do

An unexplained electrical burning smell can signal overheating or arcing and warrants immediate caution even if no smoke is visible.

Likely causes

  • Overheated plugs, damaged cables, loose connections, motors and overloaded accessories can smell hot or plastic-like.

Safe checks you can make

  • Keep people away and identify the general area without touching hot equipment.
  • If safe, switch off the affected appliance or circuit.

When to stop and get urgent help

  • If there is smoke or fire, leave, call 999 and do not re-enter.
  • Never investigate inside a consumer unit, socket or appliance while energised.

How a electrician can help

  • An electrician can locate heat damage and test the installation; an appliance specialist may be needed if the source is inside equipment.