Safety · 3 min read
Electrical safety basics for household appliances
When to isolate at the fuse box, why to avoid extension leads on white goods, and PAT-testing advice.
Safety first — do not use the appliance
If you smell gas, call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999. For immediate danger call 999.
This professional guide has been compiled by the Kettlebridge engineering team to help you diagnose and, where safe, resolve common appliance issues. We provide these steps based on thousands of successful repairs across the UK.
Follow the troubleshooting steps below in order. Remember: safety is paramount. If you encounter any step that involves live electricity, gas connections, or complex disassembly that you are not comfortable with, stop immediately and contact a professional.
Step-by-step checks
- Isolate before you inspect. Turn off at the wall socket and, for hard-wired appliances, at the consumer unit.
- Avoid extension leads on white goods. Washing machines, dishwashers and tumble dryers should be plugged directly into a wall socket.
- Watch for warning signs. Repeatedly tripping fuses, scorch marks around plugs, or humming sockets need investigation.
Safety notes
- Never remove appliance covers while powered.
- PAT-testing is not legally required in residential settings but is good practice for landlords.
When to book a repair
Any appliance that trips the fuse more than once should be professionally diagnosed before further use.