What do you do if your Hot Plug Indicator turns RED...

Please;

  • Switch off the socket and/or unplug and remove the plug/adaptor from the socket and carry out a visual inspection of the equipment.

Visually check the plug/adaptor/socket are not damaged as follows;

  • Visibly check that cables and leads are in good condition.
  • Visibly check if any parts of the plug/adaptor or loose.
  • Look for cracks or damage on the plug/adaptor casing.
  • Look for signs of overheating, such as discoloured casings or cable.
  • Check if there is any blackness or scorch marks around the socket/plug/adaptor.
  • Check if there is any melted plastic on socket/plug/adaptor casings.
  • Check that the plug meets British Standard BS 1363 – it will be marked on the back.
  • Check that the plug cable is firmly clamped into the plug and no coloured plug wires are showing.
  • Check that the socket/plug/adaptor is not overloaded

If any of these points are apparent do not continue to use and contact a competent electrician for advice and further inspection.

If all visual checks are ok and the plug/adaptor are safe to use, it is recommended that you do not leave the plug/adaptor unattended when in use.  Replace the hot plug indicator for new and be vigilant when using the plug/adaptor.  Always remember to switch off your electrical items when they are not in use.

Ensure you use the correct chargers for your devices

The Hot Plug Indicator has highlighted instances of elevated temperatures in some chargers when a wrong device is plugged into a charger for charging i.e. where an iPad device is connected to an iPhone charger for charging.

This is due to the differing device battery and charging capacity.  It highlights a weakness in the USB common design and inter-connectivity of devices.

Good Practice

Other good practices include;

  • Check plugs and plug wires regularly. Plugs and their cables can be damaged with use.
  • Never overload an extension lead by plugging in appliances that together will exceed the maximum current rating stated for the extension lead.
  • Never trail cables under carpets or rugs.
  • Never take mains-powered electrical items into the bathroom.
  • Only use an extension lead which was bought ready assembled.
  • Position an extension lead carefully to prevent any risk of damage.
  • Always check the extension lead plug contains the correctly rated fuse for the equipment being used.
  • If using a cable drum extension lead, it should be completely unwound to avoid overheating.
  • There should be no joints and no repairs with insulating tape.
  • Consider having additional sockets installed if you regularly rely on extension leads and adaptors – and use a registered electrician to carry out the installation work.

Electrical Safety First; Visual Checks App

Also, download the Electrical Safety First; Visual Checks App.

This allows anyone to do a quick, visual check, to ensure their home is electrically safe.  Designed to be as easy-to-use as possible, the app highlights potential dangers in each room

Download