Power points rarely fail with no warning. Heat, smell and a loose plug are the usual early signs. Treat them as a stop-using-it problem, not a “when we get around to it” problem — outlets are a real fire and shock risk when they go.
What to watch for
- The outlet is warm or hot to the touch
- Discolouration, scorch marks, or a burning or plastic smell
- Buzzing or crackling when you plug something in
- A plug that sits loose or falls out
- Lights or appliances that flicker only on that outlet
What to do
Unplug whatever is in it. Don’t keep running heaters, kettles or chargers from that point. If several outlets on the same wall are acting up, it may be the circuit, not a single fitting — same advice: stop loading it and get it looked at.
Replacement is usually a short visit once we know it is the outlet and not the cable in the wall. If there is heat or smell, don’t wait for a convenient Saturday.
Got a power point that feels wrong?
Related services
General information for Adelaide homes — not a substitute for a licensed electrician assessing your property.