Spark/Blue flash when turning of socket

[Bobbya82]

Hi,

Can someone tell me if it is normal to see a Spark/Blue flash when turning of a socket. This seems to happen on alot of my plug sockets, I see the spark behind the switch.

I have no problems just interested to know if this is normal.

Thanks.

 

[breezer]

i depnds on the load, quality of the socket and if its dark

 

[Bobbya82]

Its not that dark.

Have noticed it using micorwave and kettle and also light switch in the loft.

Only when turning off

 

[breezer]

high loads. i also bet the loft jas a flourescent light?

 

[Bobbya82]

You guessed it right for the loft.

So I have nothing to worry about then??

Thanks again.

 

[breezer]

it would be advisable to wear a pink marigold glove with fur trim

no its ok, they are all high load devices, but that said if they do play up, you will know why

 

[jj4091]

it would be advisable to wear a pink marigold glove with fur trim

You seem to have a thing for pink marigolds Breezer, whats wrong with the yellow ones?

 

[securespark]

I guess you switch the plug-in appliances off when they're running?

 

[Bobbya82]

Um, From what I can rememeber probably yes.

It sounds like this is ok though and I have nothing to worry about?

Thanks.

 

[JohnD]

It happens more if you have weary old switches where the spring is weak and the contacts do not break smartly. It is sometimes possible to get a brief shock from these too.

If you think your switches are old or of poor quality, try swapping one or two of them for a new MK or Crabtree.

 

[Steve]

Forget quality switches - I have brand new MK sockets which flash on turning on/off my computer equipment on standby! Its perfectly normal.

I would only start to worry if a secret key switch flashed - arcing is not a good thing when you've got hold of a piece of metal lodged in a switch!