cracked socket outlets and fcu

[Dan Brown]

Hi all
I've come across a double gang socket outlet with a crack running from the earth upwards and one from the live downwards
What could have caused this would excess amperage cause this

Same goes for the switched FCU, it has a crack on the face where the fuse input is situated

 

[Darkwood]

Depends - if slightly tainted brown it would be heat damage either caused by a defective plug or the socket /spur itself, heat damage is often involved integrally to the socket/spur even if you don't see any colour change.

Another reason is cheap crap that's not up to the job or a warped, out of line fixing for the socket that puts undue stresses on it, lastly it could be the fact the plug that was in it got snagged and focused some excessive forces on the socket like someone tripping over the wire.

All in all just change it for reputable brand and ensure the plug (if the same is often used in it) is checked and changed; just in case.

 

[snowhead]

Could be someone like one of my ex neighbours (semi detactched) who seemed convinced the only way to put plugs in was to smack them in hard.

Or, with a plug in the socket and furniture, kids or other heavy objects falling or being pushed against it.

 

[Englishman]

I put it down to exterior damage. I work for a housing firm and come across these fairly often.