Check suspicious or unreliable sockets
Tell us what the socket is doing and when the problem started. Call 01202 123456
A socket does not have to stop working completely before it deserves attention. Intermittent power, unusual warmth, visible discolouration, crackling, looseness or repeated problems with connected equipment can all be reasons to have an outlet checked. Apex Electrics provides targeted socket testing for homeowners across Bournemouth and the surrounding service area.
The aim is to identify whether the concern appears to be limited to the socket itself or whether the symptoms point to something elsewhere in the circuit. That distinction matters. Replacing an accessory without understanding why it failed can leave the underlying problem unresolved.
Socket testing is most useful when it starts with a specific concern. You might have one outlet that has stopped supplying power, a plug that feels loose, an accessory showing heat damage, or a group of sockets behaving differently after a circuit has tripped. We begin with those symptoms and test the relevant point or circuit as appropriate. Depending on the situation, investigation can include checks related to supply, polarity, earth continuity, accessory condition and visible or accessible connections. The exact tests depend on the fault being investigated and what can be safely accessed at the time. A socket problem can sometimes originate somewhere else. A loose connection upstream, circuit issue, damaged cable, protective device operation or previous alteration may affect what you experience at the outlet. That is why we avoid assuming the faceplate itself is automatically the cause. Targeted socket testing is different from a full electrical installation condition assessment of an entire property. If the symptoms suggest broader inspection or testing would be appropriate, we explain that distinction clearly rather than presenting a limited socket check as something more comprehensive. If a socket is visibly burnt, sparking or appears unsafe, avoid using it. Where there is an immediate electrical danger, keep clear of the affected equipment and seek appropriate urgent assistance. [CTA:call]
If an outlet has stopped supplying power, we can investigate the socket and relevant circuit conditions to help identify where the fault appears to be.
Cracked faceplates, loose fittings and worn accessories can create practical and electrical concerns. We assess the accessory and the accessible connections behind it.
Unusual warmth, scorching or discolouration should not be ignored. We can investigate the affected point and determine what further work appears necessary.
Faults that come and go can take more investigation than a completely dead socket. A clear description of when the problem occurs can be especially useful.
When several outlets are affected, the source may be elsewhere on the circuit. Testing can help narrow down the area that needs attention.
| Service | Estimated Cost | Average |
|---|---|---|
| Single socket investigation | £75–£140 | Around £105 |
| Several sockets on one circuit | £100–£200 | Around £150 |
| Testing with minor accessory replacement | £110–£220 | Around £165 |
These figures are broad planning estimates only. Fault-finding costs depend on how quickly the cause can be isolated, access to the circuit, existing condition, replacement parts and whether wider testing or remedial work is required.
We start with what you have actually noticed rather than assuming every faulty socket has the same cause.
Testing is focused on the affected point and relevant circuit conditions so that visible symptoms can be connected to a likely cause.
We distinguish a targeted socket investigation from broader property-wide electrical inspection or testing.
If the issue extends beyond the socket itself, we explain what was found and what the next sensible step would be.
If a socket is behaving strangely, do not keep testing it with different appliances. Tell us what you have noticed and we can discuss the next step. [CTA:call]
Free — no obligations
Tell us which socket is affected, what happens when you use it and whether you have noticed heat, noise, damage or circuit tripping.
If the accessory appears damaged or unsafe, stop using it. We can discuss the immediate concern when you contact us.
We assess the affected accessory and carry out testing appropriate to the symptoms and accessible parts of the circuit.
Where possible, we determine whether the issue appears local to the socket or connected to a wider circuit problem.
We outline any repair, accessory replacement or further investigation that appears necessary.