Appliance advice · Reviewed August 2026
When a faulty appliance should stay switched off.
Some signs call for a safety-first response rather than another test cycle. This overview is not emergency, electrical, gas or fire-safety instruction.
Stop and reassess
Smoke, burning smells, sparking, shocks or rapid overheating.
Do not continue testing an appliance that appears unsafe. Avoid touching, moving or opening it if doing so could add risk.
Stop and reassess
Smoke, burning smells, sparking, shocks or rapid overheating.
Do not continue testing an appliance that appears unsafe. Avoid touching, moving or opening it if doing so could add risk.
Water and electricity
Active leaking near electrical parts needs a cautious response.
Keep away from the affected area and seek locally appropriate qualified guidance. Do not attempt electrical isolation unless you are trained and it is safe to do so.
Gas or combustion concern
Do not use a routine booking form as emergency guidance.
Leave the area when appropriate and contact the relevant emergency or qualified gas service for your location.
Routine fault request
When there is no immediate danger, record the symptom without repeated testing.
Share what happened, when it began and whether the appliance is now switched off.