Replacing a burnt out socket?

[AHobbyaweek]

Yesterday the socket that the washer and dryer is plugged into stopped working and when I took the plug out it looked a bit melted.
I have read up on it and it should be a simple replacement.
Is it worth doing this myself or does an electrician need to do it?

I'd get someone qualified to look at that; you need to know why it's melted.

Someone qualified!!

There's a reason it's melted or burnt out and you won't know what that is unless someone comes to investigate. You could easily make it worse/more dangerous.

The reason why it is overheated, is that you had both a washing machine and a tumbledrier plugged into the same socket. They both have a heating element of about 3kW, and the tumble-drier in particular is likely to run for an hour or more. Most double sockets will overheat in these circumstances

A few brands are of uprated design, such as MK. If you can't use separate sockets in future, go for one of them.

There are probably other major UK brands of equally high rating, but I couldn't find specs just now. Budget brands, and brands that emphasise appearance, such as fancy colours, chrome or brass, may not be as good.

Thanks both. Must admit that is the problem with the internet, gives me lots of advice to do it myself but wanted some more advice. Sent out a note to the neighbours for recommendations as this is the first time I have needed an electrician in this area.

An electrician qualified to do most electrical work in your house, without needing to pay an outside inspector, has to be a member of a self-certification scheme. There are several of these. For example

They will usually have a search facility so you can put in your town and postcode and it will display local firms.

I'd suggest someone who is listed as an "electrical contractor" and not just as a "domestic installer" which is the lowest grade. Who has been in business for some years and not a beginner.

personal recommendation is best, but before making an appointment, ask which Scheme they are a member of, and look them up. A qualified person will usually be proud to display his scheme on his business card, letterheading and van, and should be pleased to show you his ID card.

If he acts offended at being asked, or has "left it at home" don't let him in. Like a taxi driver who doesn't seem to have a licence.

Perfect thanks for the help. We have a neighbourhood discussion board and I have had a few recommendations but I will look them up before going any further.