Tight 13A socket

[Gwyndy]

Thank you all for your comments and suggestions.

The problem is definitely not the plugs (various) that I use, it is very much a socket issue and just one of the two. I don't think that I will use the WD40 route - I'll take it apart and if the solution is not obvious then I will replace it.

 

[Jurassicspark]

I'll take it apart and if the solution is not obvious then I will replace it.

With an outdoor rated socket.

 

[Taylortwocities]

I'll take it apart and if the solution is not obvious then I will replace it.

There will be nothing to see. Everything is enclosed in the plastic enclosure. You'd have to drill out a couple of side rivets and then.......
oh I can't be bothered. Look at this taking apart of a good quality (MK) socket...

in comparison, here's a really cheap one (watch from half-way through)

I wouldn't bother. Even if you can take it apart, you'll not get it back together again!

 

[333rocky333]

If the box is still sound you can get just the guts in the same brand snd fit it in your housing for a fraction of the cost.
Bg snd mk are the common types and can be easilyb swopped out in the old box once removed, takes about 2 minutes

 

[Gwyndy]

With an outdoor rated socket.

It is a weatherproof socket, IP66 rated, and inside a greenhouse.

 

[Gwyndy]

There will be nothing to see.

Point taken - new socket it is.

 

[Gwyndy]

Bg snd mk are the common types

It is a BG - cheap enough.

 

[333rocky333]

Screwfix do them quite cheap BG WP22 and often on offer, about 12 pound a unit, this week there actually £9.99 though the Bg white socket alone that fits Inside uses just 2 screws and removed in seconds is about 4 quid as its got neons bit harder to get though, if you can go without the neons there off the shelf for about 3 quid.
Either is a direct fit into the housing in seconds
Google Bg Nexus white (with or without Neons)

 

[JohnD]

I particularly like the weatherproof Crabtree.

 

[JohnD]

BTW, does your old one have a lid that can be closed and sealed when a plug is in? This should keep it very clean and dry.

 

[Gwyndy]

BTW, does your old one have a lid that can be closed and sealed when a plug is in? This should keep it very clean and dry.

Yes it does.

 

[securespark]

Time for a new plug if it needs lubrication IMO

I think I'll show this to Mrs S.

 

[Taylortwocities]

Yes it does.

Are the cable entry holes properly sealed?
Does the back box have a drain hole?
Do you always keep the front cover closed when there’s a plug in there, and when there isn’t?

 

[Gwyndy]

Are the cable entry holes properly sealed?
Does the back box have a drain hole?
Do you always keep the front cover closed when there’s a plug in there, and when there isn’t?

Yes, yes and usually.