Why does the socket spark when in contact with the plug?

  • Mar 15, 2021
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This question, already 62 in a row, with just such a title, was asked by the reader Elena. If you have your own answer to the question, then write it in the comments below. I and other readers will be happy to read it.

I quote the text of the question verbatim:

Hello! My outlet sparks when in contact with the plug i.e. when I shove it. The electrician tells me it's okay, but I don't think so. What should I do? How to remove it?
The photo is illustrative.
The photo is illustrative.

I reviewed the issue and advised Elena within the framework of my knowledge and qualifications as follows:

Good day!

Yes, arcing at the connection point cannot, as a rule, be called the norm; in practice, the following reasons for this malfunction are most common:

  • The pins of the plug do not fit tightly to the socket lamellas, due to poor contact, a breakdown occurs with subsequent sparking. Such a malfunction may occur due to worn-out contact elements, mismatch between the plug and the socket in terms of overall dimensions. In the first case, the lamellas need to be bent or put on rings for sealing. In the second case, replace the plug or socket outlet with a new model.
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  • The value of the load of the connected device is significantly higher than the rating of the socket outlet for which it is designed. It is necessary to replace the mains socket with a more powerful one or turn on the appliance in a specially designated place.
  • The contact of the wiring with the plug socket is broken - it occurs when the current-carrying conductors are burned out or the screws are loosened at the point where the plug socket is connected to the wiring. In this case, it is necessary to carry out an audit with a constriction or a reinforcement of veins.
  • Poor quality of the plug socket - models of the cheap segment often sin with low quality, which is why the operation of such electrical equipment leaves much to be desired, including sparking. In such a case, you'd better replace the power outlet with a new one.
  • Large inrush current - if the electrical equipment is designed to switch from a button or starter, and you connect it directly to a power outlet, sparking at this point in the circuit cannot be avoided. That is why, for example, the switching on of electric motors and other similar electrical equipment must be done in an appropriate and proper manner.

In more detail on this issue, I recommend that you familiarize yourself with the corresponding article on our website: https://www.asutpp.ru/chto-delat-esli-iskrit-rozetka.html

And also you can watch our video: